The 13 Best Sports Bras for Running in 2023
If you’re a serious runner, you know how important it is to find the perfect sports bras for running based on your body.
As a woman who’s owned many sports bras over the years, I’ve learned that not all of them are created equal—some have caused painful chafing and uncomfortable miles. That’s why I’m here to share my knowledge and the best sports bras for running.
Whether you’re looking for something supportive, comfortable, or stylish, I’ve got the rundown on 13 of the best sports bras available. You’ll surely find one that fits your needs from brands like Nike, rabbit, Janji, and more.
Top 13 Running Sports Bras
The following are the best sports bras for running. Options included are sports bras for those with large or small chests, trail running, and bras with adjustable straps.
My Pick for Best Sports Bra for Running
I’ve had all the right running gear for most of my last decade of running.
The running shoes, moisture-wicking shirts, breathable shorts, etc. But I never invested in a superb running bra.
I ran in a Victoria’s Secret sports bra from 2015 for years.
I bought the bra in two colors before I knew if I’d like it. Fortunately, it worked out for the most part. One led to my first experience of underboob chafing, which was not fun.
From that day on, I always put on Body Glide in that area before heading out for a run. Problem solved.
After including a Brooks bra in my rotation, I realized I needed to invest in another quality sports bra made for running. Cue my deep-dive research to find the best sports bras for running.
And what did I find? My newest, most favorite sports bra I’ve ever owned. The On Performance Bra.
1. On Performance Bra
The On Performance Bra has been a game-changer for me.
With a 36 D measurement, I need decent support. This was the first time I considered medium impact for my long-distance running, and I’m thrilled I did.
This bra is perfect in every way. It’s wildly comfortable, the material feels great against my skin, I didn’t experience any chafing or rubbing, and the medium impact was plenty of support for running my course PR for the Nashville Rock ‘n’ Roll Half Marathon in 2023.
This On Performance Bra costs more than other sports bras on this list, but I don’t regret my purchase. I can feel the quality, knowing this bra will last me many miles. Although I bought the black bra, I will definitely add more of the On Performance Bras to my wardrobe.
My favorite things: Comfortability, support, no rubbing/chafing, easy-to-remove tag, and great color options.
Best Sports Bras for Running – Larger Breasts
2. Panache Sport Non-Wired Sports Bra
Women with large breasts rate the Panche-style bras very highly. The Panache Sport Non-wired Sports Bra style has no wires, an added comfort for some wearers.
Note that the Panache bras come in U.K. sizes, so you must measure properly.
✔️ Highly supportive for medium- to high-impact activity
✔️ Breathable fabric keeps skin dry and comfortable
✔️ Cups are designed seam-free and encapsulate each breast
✔️ Wide shoulder straps that won’t dig in
✔️ Adjustable straps and J-hook on the back to convert to a racerback
Finding a bra with a small band and large cup is challenging. After trying and returning many, this one arrived and I am so pleased with how it fits. Easy to put on and take off, very supportive, and comfortable too.
– Lori W (see more reviews)
3. Panache Sport Wired Sports Bra
The Panache Sport Wired Sports Bra is a favorite for the runner that needs extra support.
With all the benefits of the non-wired version, this sports bra has the added benefit of additional stability.
✔️ Encapsulates each breast for maximum support even during high-impact workouts
✔️ Firm under band with non-slip gripper elastic helps keep the bra in place
✔️ Flat seams reduce chafing and increase comfort
✔️ Molded cups reduce bounce
✔️ Stabilizing shoulder straps and hook-and-eye closure help reduce movement
For the larger chested runner, this bra is the best I have found to keep the girls in place and avoid the chafe.
Nurse Ratched (see more reviews)
Best Sports Bras for Running – Small Chest
4. Nike Indy V-Neck Bra
The Nike Indy V-Neck Bra offers plenty of support for the smaller-chested runner in a slightly more fashionable look.
✔️ Easily adjust straps from the front
✔️ Made with Dri-FIT fabric that wicks moisture away to prevent chafing
✔️ Stylish and practical V-neck design
✔️ Made with recycled polyester fibers for a soft feel
✔️ Removable pads for comfort and support
I found this bra to be exactly what I needed for trail running, hiking, and yoga. I remove the pads and find it offers the perfect amount of support for me.
– Ashe (see more reviews)
5. rabbit Strappy Pocket Bra
The rabbit Strappy Pocket Bra is made with lightweight, moisture-wicking fabric to keep you cool while running.
This bra also includes a pocket to hold your phone while running. A real-life “thanks, it has pockets” moment!
✔️ Super lightweight and quick-drying fabric
✔️ Pocket on the back can hold your phone
✔️ Removable inserts for the best coverage for your body
✔️ Ideal for runners with A/B or B/C cups
It has the perfect support for running (I’m a 34 D ) the phone pocket is a really nice feature, really, nothing bounces around.
– Payayay (see more reviews)
6. adidas PowerReact Training Sports Bra
The adidas PowerReact Training Sports Bra offers plenty of support in a stylish, breathable package.
✔️ Made with highly breathable fabric composed of recycled polyester and elastane
✔️ AEROREADY technology keeps you dry by wicking away sweat
✔️ Mesh racerback for added breathability
✔️ Secure fit
it’s so comfortable and the support is unreal. would highly recommend sizing up though because it does run a bit small. other than that, it’s great!
– Celaine (see more reviews)
Best Sports Bras with Adjustable Shoulder Straps
7. Brooks Drive Convertible Bra
This Brooks Drive Convertible Bra is great for runners with large or small chests, offering adjustable straps to customize your fit.
While many runners loved the Brooks Dare Crossback in the past, the Drive Convertible allows adjustment of the straps.
✔️ Compressive fabric hugs the body for a secure fit and quality support
✔️ Adjustable shoulder straps allow you to customize your level of comfort
✔️ Wear as a scoop-back or racerback with a simple J-hook attachment
✔️ Easy on/off with rear closure
✔️ Bonded seams help avoid chafing
This is the most comfortable, anti uniboob, supportive and easiest to put on sports bra I have ever owned. No more struggling to pull up over my head, or trying to reach it to pull down my back.
– Donna K (see more reviews)
8. Sweaty Betty Power Sports Bra
If you need extra support for running, the Sweaty Betty Power Sports Bra is the bra you’ve been searching for. Rather than two straps to adjust, the Power Sports Bra has a T-bar strap that is adjustable for the best fit.
✔️ Features removable pads
✔️ Power fabric offers moisture-wicking and quick-drying capabilities
✔️ Adjustable T-bar strap on back
✔️ Quality support and stylish design
I just ran the London marathon wearing the power bra and it was brilliant. No rubbing or digging in whatsoever 🙌🏻
– Job983 (see more reviews)
Best Janji Sports Bras for Running
Two very important elements to share about the Janji company.
First, the company chooses a country to focus on local artists and their prints and graphics each season. This makes the patterns of their clothing unique.
Additionally, the company donates 2% of its proceeds to nonprofit organizations for clean water projects.
You can feel good about purchasing with Janji. Quality sports bras and a quality mission.
9. Janji Infinity Sports Bra
This reversible Janji Infinity Sports Bra offers the perfect combination of style and performance.
A significant highlight of this sports bra is that it has one patterned side and one solid side, giving you two looks for the price of one!
✔️ Janji Groundwork fabric is breathable while providing light compression
✔️ Reversible provides more style options for the same price
✔️ Removable padding
Love the pattern on this bra! It’s medium impact and good for running. I ordered my usual size of XL – it fits true to size.
– Jenna (see more reviews)
10. Janji Pace Sports Bra
The Janji Pace Sports Bra utilizes a strappy look for comfort and style.
✔️ Light compression with the ultrasmooth Groundwork fabric
✔️ Back straps are interwoven for additional comfort
✔️ Lightly padded, removable inserts
✔️ Highly breathable with mesh lining
I own three of these now!!! This is hands down my favorite sports bra. Supportive enough for me (I am a B cup for reference) but isn’t too restrictive.
– TGilbs (see more reviews)
11. Janji Ascend Sports Bra
The Janji Ascend Sports Bra is specifically designed to provide maximum support for strenuous activities like running or HIIT workouts.
✔️ Janji Groundwork fabric with target compression offers medium to high support up to a D+ cup size
✔️ Powermesh-reinforced racerback pocket carries phone without bouncing
✔️ Thinner straps offer maximum freedom of movement
✔️ Breathable, moisture-wicking fabric
“The SEAMS. Janji took a lot of care to place as many of the seams on the outside of the bra. As a resident-in-chafe, THANK YOU.”
– Vanessa (see more reviews)
Best Sports Bras for Trail Running
12. Arc’teryx Essent Bra
The Arc’teryx Essent Bra is perfect for avid trail runners and outdoor enthusiasts. With its lightweight, breathable fabric and exceptional support, this sports bra offers a comfortable fit no matter how long or far you go.
✔️ Features slightly compressive interlock knit fabric blend of nylon and elastane fibers
✔️ DAO™ (Durable Anti Odor) finish fights odor naturally
✔️ Elastane fibers provide stretch and recovery
✔️ Contains materials that meet the bluesign® criteria, an independent certification system that evaluates environment, health, and safety standards
Unlike many sports bras, the fabric on this garment feels thicker, a bit more similar to a high-quality bathing suit material. That being said, it is extremely breathable and does not budge at all during my intense workouts
– Jillvan (see more reviews)
13. Arc’teryx Soria Long Line Bra
The Arc’teryx Soria Long Line Bra offers all the same great features as the Essent but with added coverage. The extended length provides extra coverage and allows for standalone wear.
✔️ Features slightly compressive interlock knit fabric blend of nylon and elastane fibers
✔️ DAO™ (Durable Anti Odor) finish fights odor naturally
✔️ Elastane fibers provide stretch and recovery
✔️ More material makes this option longer on the torso, which is great for wearing without a shirt
This bra is really worth the hype. I am usually really picky with my workout clothes as comfort is the most important for me… This Soria Long Line Bra is so flexible, durable, comfortable and worth it to purchase.
– oneluvash (see more reviews)
What to Look for in a Sports Bra for Running
You should consider a few key things when buying a new sports bra. Once you have your preferred style down, you’ll find shopping for sports bras isn’t an ordeal.
👉🏼 The perfect fit
Knowing the best bra size for you is essential. Cup sizes, chest circumference, shoulder height – these are all elements that a proper bra shop could help you measure.
Once you know your ideal size, you can dive deep into the world of sports bras.
👉🏼 Flexible yet supportive straps
If the straps are too stiff, you’ll find the bra restrictive while running. Likewise, they’ll fall down and provide no support if they’re too loose.
👉🏼 Lightweight and breathable fabric
This is true for all running clothes. If you don’t have lightweight, breathable fabric, you could overheat during hot summer runs and feel very uncomfortable.
👉🏼 Moisture-wicking capabilities
Once again, all of your running clothes should be moisture-wicking. This helps draw sweat away from your skin, keeping you dry and comfortable.
Moisture-wicking also helps limit the risk of chafing clothing may cause.
👉🏼 Desirable closure for the perfect fit
This means having an adjustable closure to change the fit as needed for some. For others, a bra that can be pulled on over the head is preferred. Find what works best for you, and consider your perfect sports bra with that in mind.
👉🏼 Target compression for maximum support
Target compression is the pressure that should be applied to the chest while running. A bra should fit snugly but not too tightly to ensure maximum support and reduce movement.
Different sports bras have different levels of target compression, so make sure you choose one with the right level for your needs.
👉🏼 Nonrestrictive seams or interwoven back straps
Seams and back straps can cause chafing if not done properly. If you’re looking for a supportive sports bra, make sure to choose one with nonrestrictive seams or interwoven back straps that won’t dig into your skin while running.
👉🏼 Removable padding or extra coverage options.
Everyone is different. Our chests are all different too.
Identify if you prefer removable padding or padding that’s built-in. I detest removable padding, so I never purchase a sports bra that has it. However, many women find removable padding ideal for their needs.
Do you need more or less coverage? Consider how high the bra sits on your collarbone and how low it hits on your ribcage.
👉🏼 Added features (key holders, pockets, reflective accents)
Though these are not necessarily needed components, they are important to consider when shopping for a sports bra for running.
Care Tips for Your Sports Bra
Caring for your sports bras properly is so important. This was so difficult to get through my head as a young athlete.
Now I treat my sports bras like royalty and follow instructions for proper care. And, surprise, they last much longer.
✅ Wash your sports bra after each use
Not only is this important for keeping your bra clean and bacteria-free, but it will also help extend the life of your bra. While you might be able to get away with air drying your bra after light activity, a run that leaves your bra drenched with sweat begs you to wash your bra.
✅ Hand wash or use a gentle cycle in the washing machine
Don’t forget to use cold water and mild detergent when hand or machine washing to avoid damage and fading. Seriously, opting to machine wash cold for most of your athletic clothing will keep their quality much longer.
✅ Hang dry after each wash
Tumble drying will cause your sports bras to shrink and break down much faster than air drying, so hang dry instead! This is especially important for sports bras made with spandex, as the heat from a dryer can cause them to lose their elasticity.
FAQ
Yes, absolutely! A good sports bra is essential for running. It helps support your chest and minimize movement or bouncing, which can be uncomfortable and leave you with soreness and chafing. Plus, the right sports bra will help keep you cooler while you run by wicking away moisture and allowing air to circulate freely around your body.
The best sports bras for running with large breasts offer maximum support and coverage with adjustable closures, interwoven back straps, removable padding, and nonrestrictive seams. Look for a bra that fits snugly but not too tightly while providing breathability and moisture-wicking capabilities to keep you dry and comfortable during your run. Many women with larger chests swear by the Panache brand sports bras.
It depends on your individual needs. If you are a low-impact runner (perhaps you run slower), a low- or medium-impact sports bra may be sufficient for your runs. However, a high-impact bra would be the best option for maximum support and protection if you are an intense runner who does high-impact activities such as jumping jacks or sprints.
The best sports bra for running would offer maximum support and coverage, interwoven back straps, nonrestrictive seams, and built-in or removable padding. Additionally, the bra should be breathable with moisture-wicking capabilities. Our bodies are unique, so finding what works best for you is important.
Final Thoughts: Best Sports Bras for Running
Finding the best sports bras for running can be challenging. I hope I’ve provided you with plenty of information you need to make an informed decision.
Whether you need extra coverage, full support, or features such as key holders or reflective accents, there’s a perfect sports bra for you out there.
Quality sports bras should offer superior comfort, protect you from the elements, and support your chest so you can focus on having a great run. All that’s left is to get out there and find the perfect sports bra for running!
