Plus-size sports bras offer the support, coverage, and comfort needed to move with confidence—whether you’re flowing through yoga or powering through a run. The right fit can make all the difference, says physical therapist and Pilates instructor Suzanne Koval, MPT, who recommends choosing a sports bra with light to mid-support for low-impact activities and a well-fitted, high-impact bra for more intense workouts.
To help you find the best plus-size sports bra, we consulted a physical therapist, fitness experts, and activewear experts for advice on which key features to look for. Then, we tested dozens of plus-size sports bras at home in our regular fitness routines, wearing them while weightlifting, running, practicing yoga, cycling, and more. After hours of workouts, we evaluated each bra for its fit, support, comfort, quality, durability, adjustability, and value to find the top options on the market.
-
Keeps chest firmly in place, even when jumping
-
Adjustable, wide straps distribute weight evenly
-
Durable construction
Key Specs
Sizes: 34C-50J | Material: Polyester, polyamide, elastane | Closure: Hook-and-eye | Straps: H-style | Adjustable: Yes | Care: Machine wash, line dry | Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5
Who It’s For
Best for individuals seeking comfortable, high-impact support with a secure, bounce-free fit.
Why We Love It
Glamorise’s No-Bounce Cami Wire-Free Sports Bra delivers serious support without needing an underwire, making it our top pick for individuals tackling high-intensity workouts. During testing, we were impressed by its ability to keep everything firmly in place, even while jumping, sprinting, and lifting heavy weights. The triple hook-and-eye closure and adjustable, wide, H-style straps allow for a customizable fit and distribute the weight evenly. And the full-coverage, high-neck cami design eased our fears of wardrobe malfunctions.
Beyond performance, this bra is also a durable, versatile, and budget-friendly option that holds up well to repeated use. We found that it provided just as much comfort for casual wear as for high-intensity training. The breathable fabric efficiently wicks moisture, and the structured cup design lifts and shapes without squeezing too tightly. Unlike other options we tested, this bra’s zero-spandex construction meant we didn’t experience any loss of support over time—no mid-workout adjustments needed.
Potential Flaws
- The fabric is slightly stiff and scratchy for those used to very soft materials, but we barely noticed it once we got moving.
- Visible seams may be seen under tighter clothing.
Most Valuable Insight
“I have never gotten so much support from any sports bra in my life, and I used to wear two bras at once. I could actually run with no pain or feeling like my breasts were flying every which way.” —Amanda, S., Verywell Fit Product Tester
Verywell Fit
-
Encapsulated cups lift, shape, and prevent bounce without squishing the chest
-
Comfortable, customizable straps and band
-
Breathable fabric wicks moisture well
Key Specs
Sizes: 32B-42G | Material: Nylon, Lycra elastane, polyester | Closure: Hook-and-eye | Straps: Convertible | Adjustable: Yes | Care: Machine wash with like colors, line dry | Our Overall Rating: 5/5
Who It’s For
Best for those who want serious support for high-impact workouts like running, HIIT, and other rigorous activities.
Why We Love It
When it comes to high-impact support for runners, lululemon’s Run Times Bra High Support doesn’t just rise to the occasion—it sprints past the competition. We put this sleek, streamlined bra through a series of high-intensity workouts, including running, rowing, and battle ropes, and it delivered unshakable support with zero spillage or chafing. Unlike other bras that rely solely on compression, this one offers structured, encapsulated cups, meaning it lifts, shapes, and prevents any bounce without the dreaded “squish” effect.
We love the higher scoop neck, which prevents any spillage while sprinting, and the scooped back with a triple hook-and-eye closure, which keeps everything secure and evenly distributed. We found the padded, convertible straps extremely comfortable and handy, letting us switch between an H-back and X-back style depending on our workout. The wide, cushioned band is exceptionally comfortable—it didn’t dig in, ride up, or pinch, even after an hour of sweat-dripping cardio. We also appreciate the breathable, moisture-wicking fabric with perforated accents that keep us cool and dry.
Potential Flaws
- The band maxes out at a size 42, which may not be suitable for all individuals seeking high-impact support.
- The built-in padding cannot be removed, which could be a drawback for those who prefer more customizable coverage.
Most Valuable Insight
“I didn’t even think about the bra while I was working out, which is maybe the best thing of all. It’s comfortable through all intensity levels, feels soft and breathable, and is super easy to take off.” —Ivy F., Verywell Fit Product Tester
-
The lululemon Run Times Bra High Support is a soft high-impact option that features a perforated front panel for breathability, molded cups, and wide, comfortable straps.
Credit: Verywell Fit
-
This lightweight, supportive bra is easy to adjust and has two perforated panels around the back to promote airflow.
Credit: Verywell Fit
-
Comfy straps that stay in place
-
Snug, supportive fit that doesn’t feel restrictive
-
No-fuss front-zip closure makes it easy to put on and remove
Key Specs
Sizes: 30A-46F | Material: Polyester, elastane | Closure: Zip front | Straps: Racerback | Adjustable: No | Care: Machine wash | Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5
Who It’s For
Best for those who want a wallet-friendly sports bra that stays put during medium- and high-impact workouts like running, barre, and HIIT.
Why We Love It
Yvette’s Zip Front Sports Bra earned our best budget pick because of its supportive fit, comfortable racerback straps, and hassle-free front zipper—at a price that won’t break the bank. We were pleasantly surprised by how well the comfy straps stayed in place, even without adjustability, making this an excellent option for those who struggle with slipping or gapping in other sports bras. Unlike some budget-friendly sports bras that sacrifice comfort for compression, this one delivers a snug yet non-restrictive fit that supports without squeezing.
The front zipper makes it incredibly easy to get on and off—no wrestling with a sweaty post-workout pullover bra. This, along with the excellent support and light shaping padding, make this bra a game-changer post-pregnancy and for breastfeeding, too. We also appreciate that it provides solid support for walking and running, allowing us to focus on the workout rather than constant readjustments. If you’ve been hesitant about front-zip sports bras, this one is well worth a try—especially at this price point.
Potential Flaws
- This bra’s limited adjustability may not work for those who prefer a more customizable fit.
- Its front zipper can feel restrictive after extended wear, making it better for workouts than all-day use.
Most Valuable Insight
“For the past couple of years, I’ve struggled to find the right type of sports bra that provides adequate support. This one is exactly what I’ve been looking for. I can focus on my workout without being annoyed or frustrated with the fit, comfort, or lack of support. Wearing this sports bra helps me get a better workout because I’m able to focus on what I’m doing and not how my body feels or what I’m wearing.” —Carrie G., Verywell Fit Product Tester
-
Fully customizable straps and band
-
Secure support with no bouncing or spillage
-
Breathable fabric wicks away moisture, even during intense workouts
Key Specs
Sizes: 22A-49.5I | Material: Nylon, spandex, polyester | Closure: Zip front, hook-and-eye | Straps: Convertible | Adjustable: Yes | Care: Machine wash cold in garment bag, lay flat to dry | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5
Who It’s For
Best if you want a no-fuss, front-zip-design with a fully customizable fit for various high-impact workouts.
Why We Love It
SheFit’s Ultimate Sports Bra lives up to its name by offering unparalleled adjustability and high-impact support, making it the best choice for those who prefer a more personalized fit. Unlike other bras that rely on standard hook-and-eye closures, this design features a fully adjustable band and straps so that you can customize its fit. We felt comfortably strapped in and secure without any pinching, spilling, or bouncing—a major win for runners and HIIT lovers alike. The convenient front-zip closure couldn’t be easier, while the compression and encapsulation design ensures everything stays in place without unnecessary bulk.
This bra’s fabric proves that support and breathability can go hand in hand. Even during intense, sweaty workouts, we found it moisture-wicking and comfortable. The lack of underwire means no painful digging, and despite its firm support, it doesn’t feel overly tight. We also love that it comes in a wide size range and 10 stylish colors. While it’s stiffer than some of the others we tested, this high-quality, durable bra stays put through weightlifting, agility drills, and long runs—without the need for mid-workout adjustments.
Potential Flaws
- The stiffer feel may take some getting used to if you prefer a more flexible, stretchy bra.
- It requires washing in a mesh garment bag to maintain shape and prevent damage.
Most Valuable Insight
“The straps and band are adjustable to get a perfect supportive lift. The cups also have removable pads to allow for extra support and coverage with them in and less bulk with them out. The straps come crossed in the back but can be uncrossed for even more room. This bra is supportive, and your breasts will not move once you adjust the straps.” —Abigail W., Verywell Fit Product Tester
Verywell Fit
-
Thick, high-quality fabric
-
Breathable and comfy enough for all-day wear
-
Stylish and available in a wide variety of colors
Key Specs
Sizes: 30A-50DDD | Material: Spandex, recycled plastic bottles | Closure: Pullover | Straps: Racerback | Adjustable: No | Care: Machine wash cold, line dry | Our Overall Rating: 4.2/5
Who It’s For
Best for those who want a stylish, compressive longline sports bra that seamlessly transitions from workouts to casual wear.
Why We Love It
Girlfriend Collective’s Paloma Bra won us over with its thick, high-quality fabric and compressive—yet surprisingly comfortable—fit. Designed more like a tank-style sports bra, it offers extra coverage and a fashion-forward look that makes it ideal for workouts and everyday wear. The soft, opaque material feels luxe, and we were impressed by the wide variety of colors, from classic neutrals to vibrant limited-edition hues.
During testing, we noticed that despite its compression, this bra remained breathable and comfortable—even after a full day of wear. While it delivers solid support, its non-adjustable band and straps mean the fit needs to be just right. That said, if you find your ideal fit, this bra is a worthy investment for low—to medium-impact activities. And it’s so cute and comfortable that there’s not much this sports bra can’t handle, from workouts to brunch to lounging.
Potential Flaws
- The sizing runs large, so we recommend sizing down for a more compressive and supportive fit.
- The non-adjustable band and straps may not provide enough customization for some, especially those with large cups and small band sizes.
Most Valuable Insight
“I wore this bra to work all day and felt very comfortable. The thick, soft fabric is high quality, and I love how it looks more like a stylish top than a typical sports bra.” —Sarah F., Verywell Fit Product Tester
Verywell Fit
-
Soft, stretchy fabric with a second-skin fit
-
Front-adjusting straps for easy nursing
-
Wireless design that’s comfy enough for all-day wear
Key Specs
Sizes: 34A-48DDD | Material: Recycled polyamide, elastane | Closure: Pullover | Straps: H-style | Adjustable: Yes | Care: Machine wash warm in garment bag, line dry | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5
Who It’s For
Best for pregnant people and those who are nursing who want a comfortable, soft, and supportive sports bra for daily wear and light exercise.
Why We Love It
When you’re pregnant or nursing, the last thing you need is a bra that feels rigid or complicated. That’s why we love Harper Wilde’s Bliss Nursing Bralette—it’s soft, stretchy, and incredibly comfortable, making it perfect for pregnancy and postpartum life. During testing, we found that the fabric felt like a second skin, offering support without squeezing or pinching. We wore it for over eight hours while packing, lifting, and walking and barely noticed it was there. The front-adjusting straps and wire-free design make nursing a breeze, and the wide band evenly distributes weight for added comfort.
As breasts grow during pregnancy, adjustability and higher support become essential, says sports bra researcher and movement expert LaJean Lawson, PhD. This bra checks both boxes with customizable straps and a snug yet flexible fit. While some nursing bras can feel restrictive, this one keeps everything in place without feeling tight or constricting. It’s versatile, transitioning seamlessly from light workouts to lounging or napping. Plus, after multiple washes, it still looks as good as new—a big testament to its quality.
Potential Flaws
- The band isn’t adjustable, so it may not accommodate significant size fluctuations over time.
- If you have larger breasts, this bra might not provide enough compression for high-impact activities.
Most Valuable Insight
“This is the most comfortable sports bra ever. I forgot I was wearing it half the time. The material is so soft and breathable. It has also held up wonderfully to multiple wears and washes, never stretching, shrinking, or losing its color.” —Maria R., Verywell Fit Product Tester
-
Easy to adjust the straps without having to take the bra off
-
Secure high coverage front prevents spillage
-
Soft, thick, and padded straps that don’t dig in
Key Specs
Sizes: 22A-49.5I | Material: Nylon, spandex, polyester | Closure: Zip front, hidden hook-and-eye | Straps: Double racerback | Adjustable: Yes | Care: Hand wash, lay flat to dry | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5
Who It’s For
Best for those who love quick, adjustable support and a secure front-zip design for low- to medium-impact workouts.
Why We Love It
SheFit’s Low Impact Sports Bra takes the hassle out of adjusting your fit mid-workout. With Velcro straps that fasten in the front, you can make on-the-fly adjustments to tweak the lift and support without ever taking this bra off—a game-changer compared to options with traditional hook-and-eye closures. We found that its hidden hooks and zip-front design make it supportive and secure enough for walking, weightlifting, biking, and even spin class. Plus, the soft, thick padded straps keep pressure off your skin, so there’s no uncomfortable digging.
Unlike some sports bras that let things spill out the top or sides, this one’s high-coverage front held us comfortably and securely. Even though the non-adjustable ribcage band means you’ll need to get your sizing right, the slightly stretchy fabric allows for some wiggle room. Whether you’re hitting the gym or running errands, we love this bra’s all-day comfort and support. And it comes in tons of fun colors, too.
Potential Flaws
- The ribcage band isn’t adjustable, so if it’s not the perfect fit, it may ride up slightly.
- The removable padding tends to fold in the wash, making it tricky to smooth back into place. We suggest removing them and washing them separately.
Most Valuable Insight
“This bra is so comfortable when I do various exercises and wear it to work. It’s comfortable enough that I like wearing it for long periods of time. It’s not restricting, but there is a lot of support.” —Jenni M., Verywell Fit Product Tester
-
Credit: Verywell Fit
-
Credit: Verywell Fit
What to Look for When Shopping for Plus-Size Sports Bras
- Impact Level: The right sports bra should match the intensity of your workout. Low-impact bras provide gentle compression and minimal structure, which makes them ideal for activities like yoga, walking, or stretching. Medium-impact bras offer more compression, wider straps, and internal support for workouts like cycling and barre. High-impact bras provide the most structure, featuring encapsulated cups, adjustable straps, and sometimes underwires to keep you secure during high-intensity exercises like running or jumping.
- Lift and Coverage: Helena Kaylin, founder of an intimate apparel company, says a quality, well-fitted sports bra should provide lift without excessive compression, allowing you to breathe comfortably. She advises looking for a snug but not restrictive fit that offers full coverage in the front and sides. Checking size charts and measuring yourself properly can help ensure the best fit.
- Sizes: To find the right size, measure around your ribcage where the bra band sits to determine your underbust size. Then, measure around the fullest part of your bust and subtract the band size from the bust measurement to find your cup size. Using these numbers as a guide, refer to each brand’s size chart for the best fit.
- Cup Style: Your ideal cup style depends on your support needs and personal preference, says Kaylin. Compression cups press the breasts against the chest to minimize movement, while encapsulated cups surround each breast for better control. For extra support, some sports bras include underwires to help maintain shape and reduce bounce.
- Padding: If you prefer additional coverage, opt for a bra with built-in padding or thicker fabric. Kaylin notes that padding can not only enhance shape but also provide extra support. Look for secure stitching to prevent shifting, or choose removable pads for adjustable coverage based on your activity and outfit.
- Straps and Closures: Adjustable straps and closures can help you achieve a customized fit for better comfort and support. Kaylin and certified personal trainer Amanda Barton, NASM-CPT, recommend wide, padded straps to evenly distribute weight and reduce strain. Hook-and-eye closures, zippers, Velcro, or buckles add adjustability to guarantee a secure, comfy fit.
- Material: Breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics like nylon, polyester, and elastane help keep you cool and dry during workouts. Blends with spandex or Lycra offer flexibility and a comfortable fit, while mesh panels or laser-cut ventilation promote airflow. Avoid cotton, which retains moisture and can cause chafing.
- Care: Proper care extends the life of your sports bra, so always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Machine-washable options are convenient, but be sure to use a garment bag to prevent stretching and air dry to maintain elasticity. If your bra has removable padding, take it out before washing, and fasten any hooks or closures to keep it in top shape.
Verywell Fit
How We Tested the Plus-Size Sports Bras
To find the best plus-size sports bra, we tested dozens of options from top, trusted activewear brands, wearing them while running, walking, weightlifting, performing agility drills, and more. When testing plus-size sports bras, we consider the following key, expert-recommended criteria.
- Fit: When first slipping on a sports bra, we assess for proper fit, ensuring the straps allow for comfortable movement without digging in or slipping. We check for any pinching, tightness, gaping, or spillage and determine if the sizing runs true. The fabric’s feel against the skin and the balance of weight distribution across the straps are also key factors in our evaluation.
- Support: To gauge support, we test each bra during various workouts, from gentle yoga flows to intense HIIT sessions. We assess how well it minimizes bounce, keeps everything secure, and maintains comfort across different activity levels. We also evaluate padded bras for coverage and shape to ensure they enhance, not hinder performance.
- Comfort: A sports bra should feel good, whether worn for an hour or all day. We assess the fabric’s breathability, compression level, and sweat-wicking abilities during workouts, noting any chafing or discomfort. Is the bra easy to remove after workouts? Did it leave marks? Bras that allow us to move freely and comfortably for our full session rank high for comfort.
- Adjustability: A great sports bra should mold to your body, not vice versa. We test the adjustability of straps, bands, and closures, evaluating how easily each feature can be modified for optimal support, comfort, and a customizable fit.
- Quality: Throughout testing, we continuously assess each bra’s materials, stitching, and construction. Does the material feel durable? Does the support lessen over time? Well-made fabrics should withstand movement and wear without stretching out or losing support. A high-quality bra performs just as well after multiple uses as it did on day one.
- Durability: Before and after testing, we inspect for loose threads, weak seams, and early signs of wear. Each bra undergoes repeated workouts and washes to determine if it retains its original shape, elasticity, and overall quality over time.
- Value: After completing all tests, we compare the cost to overall quality, support, and durability to determine if the bra is truly worth the investment—or if it’s a deal we’d only consider on sale. We prioritize sports bras whose quality exceeds their value.
Verywell Fit
Our Experts
We consulted experts at each stage of our research, testing, and reporting process. Some guided us in identifying key features to look for in top-quality sports bras, while others contributed valuable insights to enhance our testing process. While we select products independently, expert input helps inform our decisions.
- Suzanne Koval, MPT, physical therapist, Pilates instructor, and founder of Bao Bei, an online maternity and postnatal apparel company
- Helena Kaylin, founder and CEO of MINDD, an online intimate apparel company
- Amanda Barton, NASM-CPT, NASM-certified personal trainer in Las Vegas, Nevada
- LaJean Lawson, PhD, sports bra researcher and movement expert
Frequently Asked Questions
Do sports bras work for large breasts?
Yes, if you have large breasts, 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.
How do I choose a sports bra for sagging breasts?
Koval recommends looking for a sports bra with adjustable straps and a full-cup design to provide optimal lift and support. She also recommends opting for technical performance fabrics that comfortably hold breast tissue in place and getting a professional bra fitting to ensure the best fit.
Can you wear a sports bra every day?
Wearing a sports bra daily is a personal choice, but an improper fit can eventually lead to back or shoulder pain. To avoid discomfort or skin irritation, Koval says it’s important that the bra is supportive enough for your activity level and that you wash it regularly to prevent bacteria buildup.
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.
Can you wear a sports bra to bed?
While you can wear a sports bra to bed, it’s not always advisable because it can negatively impact your neck, shoulders, and back over time. It can also disrupt sleep due to the tight and compressive fit designed for working out.
Why Trust Verywell Fit
Jessica Murtaugh, NASM-CPT, CNC, is a certified personal trainer and Verywell Fit writer based in Los Angeles. She understands how a properly fitting sports bra can help you perform and feel your best. For this roundup, she prioritized trustworthy brands that aim to accommodate various support needs, bodies, 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.