What is the best sports bra for plus sizes?

Our top pick for the best sports bra for plus sizes is the Girlfriend Simone High Support Bra , which comes in sizes up to 6XL and is constructed with enough support to protect busts during HIIT classes or other high-impact training sessions. This sports bra also has some incredible fit features, like adjustable criss-cross straps and a hook-and-eye closure. The style, design, and fabrication are versatile enough for a range of workouts. For an option with band and cup sizing, we also love the Livi High-Impact Wicking Underwire Sports Bra , which is our top pick for the best high-impact sports bra. This option comes in band sizes 32 through 55 and cup sizes B through K and has a hook-and-eye closure, adjustable and convertible straps, and mesh paneling for breathability and style.

Which brand sports bra is best for heavy breasts?

When shopping for sports bras for heavy breasts, we recommend looking at Glamorise sports bras. These bras come in a range of styles and designs with different features depending on your needs and preferences. For example, the Glamorise No-Bounce Camisole Sports Bra comes in band sizes 34 through 50 and cup sizes C through J and is designed with non-stretch adjustable straps that provide lots of stability during exercise. This bra also features medium bounce control technology in the cups that helps keep breasts more secure and supported during exercise, even running. The Glamorise MagicLift Seamless Sports Bra is another one of our top picks because it is constructed to give breasts a more supportive lift without the need for an underwire.

How should a plus-size sports bra fit?

“A sports bra should fit similarly to how your everyday bra fits you,” says Heather Naughton , assistant vice president at Cacique Intimate Apparel. “The band of the bra should lay flat across your back and should not ride up, your breast tissue should fit within the bra cup, and your chest should feel contained and supported, depending on what level of impact you choose." In addition to fit, Caldwell says to also consider coverage. “Ideally, you want to look for fuller coverage in sports bras, as a demi style or plunge front bra won’t protect breast tissue or keep it secure,” she explains. Caldwell says that a firm-fitting back band that starts just under the bust in the front and stays parallel to the floor toward the back is also ideal. She also says to look at the straps, and if you have fuller or heavier busts, to opt for straps that don’t have as much stretch for stability.

The Best Plus-Size Sports Bras for Running, Yoga, and Everything In-Between

Light Blue Under Armour Crossback Sports Bra on a wood table — Photo:
People / Madison Yauger

Sports bras can enhance your workout regimen by providing lasting support, but it's especially important for plus-sized individuals with larger breasts, as the support can help minimize back pain and bounce. They’re also necessary for preserving breast shape, no matter your cup size.

Experts Say

“Our skin and tissue are very susceptible to stretching, so if you’re interested in protecting its shape, protecting the bust [with a sports bra] while jumping or running is key."—Kimmay Caldwell, undergarment educator

Sports bras can make exercise a lot more comfortable, especially for those with fuller busts — but they must be good quality and fit well in order to achieve these benefits. We scoured the internet for the best plus-size sports bras and tested a few ourselves, too.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Anita Maximum Support Sports Bra at Anita.com

Jump to Review

Best Overall (Cheaper):

SALE

Glamorise Camisole Sports Bra at Amazon ~~$47~~ $30

Jump to Review

Most Comfortable:

Under Armour Crossback Sports Bra at Amazon $25

Jump to Review

Best Budget:

All In Motion Seamless Medium Support Cami Midline Sports Bra at Amazon $18

Jump to Review

Best High-Impact:

Lane Bryant Sports Bra at Lanebryant.com

Jump to Review

Best for Yoga:

Knix Momenta Racerback Sports Bra at Knix

Jump to Review

Most Supportive:

Wacoal Sport Underwire Bra at Amazon $76

Jump to Review

Best Low-Impact:

Harper Wilde Flex Racerback Sport Tank at Harperwilde.com $23

Jump to Review

Best Medium-Impact:

Athleta Ultimate Bra D-DD+ at Athleta

Jump to Review

Best for Small Cup Sizes:

SALE

Glamorise MagicLift Seamless Sports Bra at Amazon ~~$57~~ $43

Jump to Review

Best Overall

Anita Maximum Support Sports Bra

PHOTO: Anita

View on Anita.com

It doesn’t get more supportive than this bra. During testing, we were able to do high-intensity workouts without our bust bouncing or moving, which is quite impressive for a plus-size sports bra. The straps and band are both adjustable, which allows you to get a perfect fit, though we wish you could also cross the straps for even more security.

We also appreciated the bra’s padded straps and mesh ventilation, which upped the comfort even further. This bra might be a splurge, but it’s well worth it when you consider its premium support and comfort.

Band Sizes: 30–42 | Cup Sizes: A–H | Material: Nylon, polyester, elastane, polyurethane

PHOTO: People
PHOTO: People
PHOTO: People

Why Opt for Traditional Sizing?

While it's common for sports bras to come in alpha sizing (think: S, M, L, and so on), if you’re concerned about fit, Caldwell says to consider options with band and cup sizing, like a more traditional bra. This is especially helpful for people who might want a larger band but have a smaller cup size.

“Unlike alpha sizing, which gets bigger in the cup and band as the size increases, bra-sized sports bras allow for the band and cup to be more customized to the wearer,” Caldwell notes. “There are over 250 bra size varieties out there, which means the ability to find the right fit for your unique body’s band and cup size combination is increased by quite a lot.”

Best Overall (Cheaper)

Glamorise Camisole Sports Bra

Glamorise Women’s No-Bounce Camisole Sports Bra #1066

PHOTO: Amazon

$47 $30 at Amazon

This sports bra has it all: an impressive size range, comfort, breathability, and adjustable straps. We tested this sports bra during a variety of workouts, and it never restricted our range of motion and wasn’t too compressive. It's designed to reduce bounce, making it ideal for running and other high-impact activities.

We found the bra sufficiently supportive but felt it could have increased support had there been padded cups. (We accidentally ordered one size too big, but we know the bra would be even better with the proper size.) We think this bra will offer you all the support needed for high- and low-impact exercise, so long as you order your true size.

Band Sizes: 34-50 | Cup Sizes: C-J | Material: Polyester, polyamide, elastane

PHOTO: People
PHOTO: People
PHOTO: People
PHOTO: People

Most Comfortable

Under Armour Crossback Sports Bra

Under Armour Women’s Crossback Mid-Impact Sports Bra

PHOTO: Amazon

$25 at Amazon $27 at Zappos $33 at Underarmour.com

During testing, we found that this Under Armour sports bra is the ideal blend of support and comfort. Whereas most supportive sports bras are too compressive for daily wear, this one was equally suited for doing HIIT workouts and running errands.

It felt snug and secure without being uncomfortably tight, so we never experienced any pinching, spillage, or gapping. We appreciated that it allowed for a full range of motion, so we would definitely feel comfortable doing yoga or pilates in this bra, too.

Band Sizes: XS-3XL | Cup Sizes: N/A | Material: Polyester

PHOTO: People
PHOTO: People
PHOTO: People

Best Budget

All In Motion Seamless Medium Support Cami Midline Sports Bra

PHOTO: Target

$18 at Amazon $16 at Target

We can always count on Target’s activewear section to deliver high-quality, budget-friendly pieces and inclusive sizing. Consider the All In Motion Seamless Medium Support Cami Midline Sports Bra for a less expensive plus-size sports bra.

This bra features a classic racerback design with comfortable and adjustable straps, removable cups, and a seamless design. It’s constructed from a stretchy and soft blend of nylon, recycled polyester, and spandex, and its scoop neckline provides full coverage, too.

While we don’t recommend this bra for more high-intensity workouts — such as running or HIIT classes — the bra provides enough support for low-impact workouts like yoga, Pilates, and walking. It’s also an excellent option for those looking for a daily sports bra to wear with athleisure ensembles.

Band Sizes: XS-4XL | Cup Sizes: N/A | Material: Nylon, recycled polyester, spandex

Best High-Impact

Lane Bryant Sports Bra

LIVI High-Impact Wicking Underwire Sports Bra

PHOTO: Lane Bryant

View on Lanebryant.com

If you’re looking for a plus-size sports bra that can provide plenty of support during high-impact workouts, we recommend the Livi High-Impact Wicking Underwire Sports Bra from Lane Bryant. This bra comes in band sizes 32 through 55 and cup sizes B through K, allowing you to get a more custom fit for the best support. It’s also constructed from a durable and sweat-wicking nylon and Lycra blend and has an underwire for an additional layer of support.

In addition to its size range and support features, we love that this bra has adjustable and convertible straps, so you can get an accurate fit based on your preferences. The band also has a hook-and-eye closure, which can improve fit and allows for a longer lifespan, since you can adjust the band as the bra stretches. The back of the sports bra also has mesh paneling for added breathability.

Band Sizes: 32-55 | Cup Sizes: B-K | Material: Nylon, Lycra

Best for Yoga

Knix Momenta Racerback Sports Bra

PHOTO: Knix

View on Knix

When practicing yoga, you want a bra that fits well, supports you, and is comfortable enough for a range of movements. We love the Knix Momenta Racerback Sports Bra because it checks all of these boxes, plus it moonlights as a workout top thanks to its longline style.

The Knix sports bra features a scoop neckline, built-in padded cups for shaping and support, and a seamless design for long-lasting comfort. It also has mesh paneling right above the band for breathability and a comfortable racerback style, so you don’t have to worry about straps digging into the shoulders.

While the bra technically doesn’t come in band and cup sizes, it’s designed to fit a range of bands from 28 to 44 and cups from A through H. Knix also has a handy converter feature on the product page that allows you to input your bra size to find which Knix size works best for your body.

Band Sizes: 28-44 | Cup Sizes: A-H | Material: Nylon, spandex, polyester

Most Supportive

Wacoal Sport Underwire Bra

PHOTO: Wacoal

$76 at Amazon $76 at Nordstrom $76 at Zappos

Sports bras with underwire, such as the Wacoal Simone Underwire Sports Bra, can offer more support than your average style. Constructed from a stretchy and durable nylon material, this Wacoal sports bra features full coverage with a V-neckline, thick and comfortable adjustable straps, and a hook-and-eye closure to extend the life of your band. The bra is also available in band and cup sizes, allowing you to customize your fit and ensure you get the right support for your bust.

We love that this bra has molded double-layer cups for added shaping, and that cup sizes G through I have an added inner sling for further support. While underwire might not be a go-to for comfortable activewear, this bra features padding around the underwire so it goes virtually undetected. The back also has mesh paneling for improved breathability during high-intensity workouts.

Band Sizes: 32-42 | Cup Sizes: C-I | Material: Nylon, spandex

Best Low-Impact

Harper Wilde Flex Racerback Sport Tank

PHOTO: Harper Wilde

$23 at Harperwilde.com

For an ultra-comfy plus-size sports bra with low-impact support, we love the Harper Wilde Flex Racerback Sport Tank. This sports bra top features a high neckline with a classic racerback design and nearly seamless construction for lasting comfort.

The Harper Wilde sports bra is available in sizes XS through 4XL and is also made with a double-layer flex fabric to provide lightweight compression and support while remaining breathable and stretchy. It’s the best sports bra option for daily activities, plus low-impact workouts like walking, hiking, and yoga.

Band Sizes: XS-4XL | Cup Sizes: N/A | Material: Nylon, Lycra

Best Medium-Impact

Athleta Ultimate Bra D-DD+

PHOTO: Athleta

View on Athleta

The Athleta Ultimate Bra for sizes D through DD+ is our top pick for the best sports bra for medium-impact workouts. This athleisure bra comes in sizes 2XS through 3XL and is constructed from a blend of recycled polyester, nylon, and Lycra with supportive compression. The sports bra features a racerback design with a cut-out back to keep you cool during exercise. The plus-size options all feature a hook-and-eye closure for added support and a better fit.

This bra is also compatible with Athleta’s Empower Mastectomy Bra Insert, which was created for post-op breast cancer survivors. These are designed to create the look of naturally shaped breasts and also stay in place in the Ultimate Bra during gym workouts.

Band Sizes: 2XS-3XL | Cup Sizes: N/A | Material: Recycled polyester, nylon, Lycra

Best for Small Cup Sizes

Glamorise MagicLift Seamless Sports Bra

PHOTO: Amazon

$57 $43 at Amazon $57 at Nordstrom $57 at Walmart

For plus-size individuals with smaller cup sizes, consider the Glamorise MagicLift Seamless Sports Bra, which comes in band sizes 34 through 50 and cup sizes B through I. This sports bra is constructed from a stretchy polyester and polyamide blend that wicks away moisture and sweat and provides long-lasting comfort while you're working out.

The MagicLift is also a great option for those wanting more of a lifted effect, as it is specifically designed with cups made to lift and shape without the need for an underwire. The cups are also seamless so you don’t see any lines underneath light-colored tops, and the back features a functional hook-and-eye closure that makes slipping it on and off a breeze.

Band Sizes: 34-50 | Cup Sizes: B-I | Material: Polyester, polyamide, elastane

Best Front Zip

Glamorise Zip-Up Front-Close Wire-Free Sports Bra

PHOTO: Bare Necessities

$46 $35 at Amazon View on Barenecessities.com View on Glamorise.com

If you prefer a front zip style, consider this zip-up wireless sports bra by Glamorise. Available in band sizes 34 through 38 and cup sizes B through F, this zip-up sports bra is ideal for medium-impact activities, including cycling and weightlifting.

The sports bra is designed from a lightweight and breathable microfiber material with mesh for breathability. It also features a stylish strappy design with a convenient hook-and-eye closure and a cut-out just above the band for an added cooling effect.

Band Sizes: 34-48 | Cup Sizes: B-F | Material: Polyester, elastane

Add to Cart

If you're looking to enhance your workout routine, here are some more products we've tested and loved.

Beyond Yoga Midi High Waisted Legging

Amazon Beyond Yoga Spacedye Caught In The Midi High Waisted Legging

$97 $87 at Amazon $40 at Nordstrom $97 at Zappos

Hoka Women's Bondi 8

$200 $179 at Amazon $165 $108 at Nordstrom $165 at Zappos

Saucony Women's Cohesion 13

$75 $70 at Amazon $92 at Walmart

Girlfriend Collective High-Rise Legging

Girlfriend Collective Compressive High-Rise Legging

$79 at Amazon View on Girlfriend.com $78 $39 at Backcountry

What to Know About Plus-Size Sports Bras

Treat Sizing Like a Real Bra

“Plus-size folks can experience great pain in the bust if their bra is not properly fitted or supportive enough, either because it’s too loose and chafing or too small and digging in,” Caldwell says, adding that sports bras that aren’t supportive enough can also lead to pain (in the bust and the back) from bouncing.

Our list of the best plus-size sports bras includes options in alpha sizing as well as more customizable styles with a range of band and cup sizes. If you’re looking for a high-impact sports bra, we recommend the Livi High-Impact Wicking Underwire Sports Bra, which comes in band sizes 32 through 55 and cup sizes B through K.

The Knix Momenta Racerback Sports Bra, our pick for the best plus-size sports bra for yoga, features a unique sizing feature that allows you to input your band and cup size to determine which specific Knix alpha size will work best for your bust and body.

If you have a smaller cup size, we also recommend the Glamorise MagicLift Seamless Sports Bra, which is available in band sizes 34 through 50 and cup sizes starting at B. For those who prefer alpha sizing, our top pick for the best plus-size sports bra, the Target All in Motion Seamless Medium Support Cami Sports Bra is an excellent choice as it comes in sizes XXS through 4XL, one of the most inclusive alpha size ranges we’ve seen in a sports bra style.

Choose Underwire for Extra Support

While it’s not entirely necessary, Caldwell says sports bras with underwire are worth considering because they provide an extra boost of support by creating a frame for the bra cups and also help separate breast tissue. Sports bras with underwire — such as the LIVI High-Impact Wicking Underwire Sports Bra or the Wacoal Simone Underwire Sports Bra — are better for exercises like running, walking, or even cycling. Wire-free sports bras are ideal for yoga, Pilates, and other exercises that require a little more flexibility (and a lot more bending).

With that said, Caldwell says that it’s more common for plus-sized individuals to opt for wire-free styles when working out. “Some plus-size bodies match best into a wire-free bra, which offers more fit flexibility around the body and skin folds or rolls, or an extended tummy,” she explains.

Look for Wide Bra Bands

To find a plus-size sports bra with the best support, Caldwell says to look at the bra band and, whenever possible, opt for styles that have a wide band.

“This is what provides about 90 percent of your bra’s support, and is instrumental for proper fit for the rest of the bra,” she explains. “In order to fit well, the band must anchor and stay in place, which is especially important if you’re exercising or moving a lot.”

She also adds that a wide band helps provide stability for the straps and cups. In addition to the bra band’s thickness, Caldwell says to consider features such as hook-and-eye closures, a breathable mesh or perforated material, and a firmer elastic that doesn’t stretch as easily for added support.

Consider the Activity Type

Apart from the bra itself, Gabrielle Richards, brand director of Truekind and Shapermint, says to also consider the types of workouts you prefer and choose options designed specifically for activity levels. “Lower-impact activities such as walking, yoga, and Pilates may not require bras with more structure or boning because you are not doing as much movement,” she explains. “If you are running or jogging, you may opt for a bra that has more functional features to help keep your breasts in place.”

With this in mind, our top pick for the best plus-size sports bra for high-impact exercise is the LIVI High-Impact Wicking Underwire Sports Bra. We also love the Harper Wilde Flex Racerback Sport Tank for low impact and the Athleta Ultimate Bra D-DD+ for medium impact. If you run, the Glamorise No-Bounce Camisole Sports Bra is also a great option because it is designed to reduce bounce.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best sports bra for plus sizes?

Our top pick for the best sports bra for plus sizes is the Girlfriend Simone High Support Bra, which comes in sizes up to 6XL and is constructed with enough support to protect busts during HIIT classes or other high-impact training sessions. This sports bra also has some incredible fit features, like adjustable criss-cross straps and a hook-and-eye closure. The style, design, and fabrication are versatile enough for a range of workouts.

For an option with band and cup sizing, we also love the Livi High-Impact Wicking Underwire Sports Bra, which is our top pick for the best high-impact sports bra. This option comes in band sizes 32 through 55 and cup sizes B through K and has a hook-and-eye closure, adjustable and convertible straps, and mesh paneling for breathability and style.
Which brand sports bra is best for heavy breasts?

When shopping for sports bras for heavy breasts, we recommend looking at Glamorise sports bras. These bras come in a range of styles and designs with different features depending on your needs and preferences. For example, the Glamorise No-Bounce Camisole Sports Bra comes in band sizes 34 through 50 and cup sizes C through J and is designed with non-stretch adjustable straps that provide lots of stability during exercise.

This bra also features medium bounce control technology in the cups that helps keep breasts more secure and supported during exercise, even running. The Glamorise MagicLift Seamless Sports Bra is another one of our top picks because it is constructed to give breasts a more supportive lift without the need for an underwire.
How should a plus-size sports bra fit?

“A sports bra should fit similarly to how your everyday bra fits you,” says Heather Naughton, assistant vice president at Cacique Intimate Apparel. “The band of the bra should lay flat across your back and should not ride up, your breast tissue should fit within the bra cup, and your chest should feel contained and supported, depending on what level of impact you choose."
In addition to fit, Caldwell says to also consider coverage. “Ideally, you want to look for fuller coverage in sports bras, as a demi style or plunge front bra won’t protect breast tissue or keep it secure,” she explains.
Caldwell says that a firm-fitting back band that starts just under the bust in the front and stays parallel to the floor toward the back is also ideal. She also says to look at the straps, and if you have fuller or heavier busts, to opt for straps that don’t have as much stretch for stability.

Behind the Scenes

We scoured the internet for the best plus-size sports bras, paying close attention to reviews, inclusive size ranges, and supportive features. We also tested 15 sports bras to find the best bras for plus-size wearers, including bras from Lululemon, Athleta, Adidas, and more. We evaluated each bra's fit, support, comfort, adjustability, and value.

Fit and Comfort: Each tester evaluated their sports bra's fit and comfort, ensuring there was no pinching, spillage, or gapping with the bras. The testers also assessed whether the bras limited movement and were comfortable for long workers and all-day wear.
Support: We tested each bra for high-impact and low-impact workouts to determine which activities were best-suited to each sports bra.
Adjustability: The best sports bras we tested had adjustable straps and bands to ensure a perfect fit.
Value: We considered the cost of each sports bra to ensure each sports bra's price reflected its value.

Why Trust PEOPLE?

Jessie Quinn is a contributing writer for PEOPLE and has written for publications such as Byrdie, InStyle, The Spruce, NYLON, and more. To find the best plus-size sports bras, Jessie connected with bra experts Kimmay Caldwell, Heather Naighton, and Gabrielle Richards to learn more about not only what makes an excellent sports bra but also specific features that plus-size bodies might consider for better fit, support, and comfort. From there, she researched top brands and dozens of styles across several categories to find options for a range of exercises and impact levels. She also considered special features like no-bounce technology, lifting designs, and convertible straps that help elevate a workout experience by offering a little something extra for bust support.

Shopping writer Genevieve Cepeda most recently updated this article after PEOPLE tested 15 sports bras in the real world. She evaluated the features of each sports bra, along with the real-life reviews of PEOPLE testers, to determine the best plus-size sports bras.

Our Expert Panel

Kimmay Caldwell is an undergarment educator, creator of Bra Confidence & Comfort, and the founder of The Fitters’ Formula, which teaches bra fitting with accuracy and empathy.
Heather Naughton is the assistant vice president at Cacique Intimate Apparel, a lingerie brand carried by Lane Bryant.
Gabrielle Richards is the brand director at Truekind and Shapermint.

What is PEOPLE Tested?

We created the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval to help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs.

But we don’t stop there: We also regularly re-review the categories in which we’ve awarded the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval — because the best product of today might not be the best of tomorrow. And by the way, companies can never buy our recommendation: Their products must earn it, fair and square.

In short, PEOPLE Tested provides recommendations you can trust — every day, every purchase.

In This Article

Best Overall

Anita Maximum Support Sports Bra

Best Overall (Cheaper)

Glamorise Camisole Sports Bra

Most Comfortable

Under Armour Crossback Sports Bra

Best Budget

All In Motion Seamless Medium Support Cami Midline Sports Bra

Best High-Impact

Lane Bryant Sports Bra

Best for Yoga

Knix Momenta Racerback Sports Bra

Most Supportive

Wacoal Sport Underwire Bra

Best Low-Impact

Harper Wilde Flex Racerback Sport Tank

Best Medium-Impact

Athleta Ultimate Bra D-DD+

Best for Small Cup Sizes

Glamorise MagicLift Seamless Sports Bra

Best Front Zip

Glamorise Zip-Up Front-Close Wire-Free Sports Bra

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