Sports Bras for Large Breasts We Also Tested

We tested 19 sports bras for large breasts, but only 11 impressed us enough to make our final list of recommendations. Although we liked some of these sports bras' features, they didn't meet our rigorous testing requirements to be selected as top picks.

• lululemon’s Enlite Weave-Back Bra is comfortable, but we noticed it didn't fit well enough to provide the right level of support. The cups gapped, and we wish the straps were adjustable.
• Although we wore lululemon’s Energy Bra in our usual size, it felt very small. The straps were too tight, and we spilled out of the cups.
• Anita’s High Impact Wire-Free Sports Bra is adjustable, lightweight, and breathable. We like that it comes in a wide range of sizes, but it runs small, especially in the band, causing our breasts to spill out of the cups.

What to Look for When Shopping for Sports Bras for Large Breasts

• Activity: Sports bras are designed to support your chest based on how intensely you exercise. High-impact bras have the most support and compression, and they're ideal for cardio workouts. Medium-impact bras are best for hiking or cycling. Low-impact sports bras aren’t recommended for most people with large breasts, but they may work for walking or everyday wear. Many exercise dresses have low-impact bras built-in that may give slightly more support.
• Design: Consider the bra's shape: Is the neckline high enough to provide coverage? Are the sides wide enough to support you from all angles? A lack of coverage may lead to spillage and rubbing that could be uncomfortable, says Leavell.
• Closure: Sports bras come in pull-on, front closure, and back closure styles. Goldstein recommends avoiding pull-on styles because they only provide compression. Instead, opt for front- or back-closure bras, which offer maximum hold and stress distribution, she says.
• Straps: Avoid bras with narrow, fixed straps. Goldstein recommends thicker straps that you can adjust to fit your build and evenly distribute your weight. Straps with cushioning also help prevent chafing.
• Material: Sports bras that aren’t breathable will trap sweat and moisture, which can lead to irritation. Bras made with sweat-wicking fabric will pull moisture away from your skin while keeping you comfortable. Goldstein recommends looking into performance textiles that resist odor and repel moisture, including mesh, polyester, and nylon.
• Care: Each sports bra comes with a different set of care instructions. Some are machine washable, while others are hand wash only—and not all can go in the dryer. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to prolong the life of your sports bra.

How We Tested the Sports Bras for Large Breasts

To find the best sports bras for large breasts, we spent 113 days testing 19 expert-approved options from top brands, wearing them while performing jumping jacks, running, walking, lifting weights, and in our daily routines. When testing sports bras for large breasts, we evaluate each option based on the following key criteria.

• Fit: When we first try the bra on, we note whether the straps evenly distribute our weight without digging into our shoulders. We also check to see if there's any gapping or spillage.
• Support: We test each bra's impact level by performing various exercises, including jumping jacks, jogging, weight lifting, fitness walks, and more. How much do our chests bounce? Is the bra comfortably compressive, or is it so tight we can't breathe?
• Comfort: To test a bra's comfort, we wear it to the gym or around the house for at least three hours. Does the bra stay in place? Do the straps dig into our backs or shoulders? We also note whether the bra leaves any red marks, irritation, or sweat buildup behind after we take it off.
• Adjustability: How easy is it to adjust the bra—can we tweak the fit while wearing it? We prioritize bras with easily adjustable bands and straps.
• Quality: When we first receive the bra, we examine its construction. Does it seem well-made, or do we spot fraying, loose threads, or other manufacturing defects? At the end of the testing period, does the bra still feel as high-quality as it did when we first tried it on?
• Durability: We wash the bras after every wear to test their durability. If we notice any fading, pilling, loss of elasticity, or other signs of wear and tear, the bra receives a lower durability score.
• Value: To accurately assess each bra's value, we wait to check the price until the end of the testing period, after we've evaluated it in all other categories. Based on its performance, would we buy this bra at full price or only if it went on sale? We also consider whether we'd recommend it to our family and friends.

Our Experts

We consulted experts at each stage of research, testing, and reporting process. The following experts explained how to ensure a sports bra fits correctly and helped us develop and refine our testing process. Although we choose products independently, expert input influences our decisions.

• Laura Burke, certified bra fit expert and intimate apparel stylist at Fit X Burke
• Jenette Goldstein, founder and CEO of Jenette Bras
• Lauren Leavell, NASM-CPT, certified personal trainer, group fitness instructor, and founder of Lauren Leavell Fitness
• Marissa Renelt, bra fit expert and assistant buyer at Burlington Stores
• LaJean Lawson, PhD, sports bra researcher and breast motion expert
• Joshua Zeichner, MD, associate professor of dermatology and director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital

Frequently Asked Questions

How are sports bras supposed to fit?

Burke says that most of the support for sports bras comes from the band, so a snug band that anchors to your body and doesn’t ride up is key. She adds that you need a firmer band if you can reach around your back and pull out the band more than an inch. Ensure all your breast tissue fits comfortably in the cup, and it's best not to rely on overly tightened straps for lift.

Can sports bras flatten your breasts?

A tight-fitting sports bra may flatten or compress your breasts temporarily, but that also helps keep them out of the way and restrict movement. However, some sports bras aren't designed to flatten—they're shaped more like regular bras and actually encase and support each individual breast.

Is it okay to wear a sports bra as an everyday bra?

Yes, it's okay to wear a sports bra as an everyday bra. Look for one that’s medium- to low-impact, so it will be comfortable to wear all day long.

How much does a high-quality sports bra for large breasts cost?

A high-quality sports bra for large breasts may cost anywhere from $20 to over $100. Pricier bras may be more adjustable and have other features that may work better for your needs.

Do sports bras contain BPA?

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical found in some types of plastic. Research has shown that exposure to high levels of BPA can lead to obesity, hormonal imbalances, and uterine cancer, among other health complications. In May 2023, the Center for Environmental Health (CEH) announced that, after testing, it found high levels of BPA in certain activewear pieces containing polyester and spandex blends. Zeichner says that the best way to prevent BPA exposure is to make educated decisions when purchasing products. As a precaution, it's best to limit the time you spend in activewear by changing out of it when you are finished working out. Keep in mind that the science of transdermal absorption of BPA is still not settled. 

Why Trust Verywell Fit

Emily Stone is a Verywell Fit writer and fitness enthusiast. She frequently wears sports bras during dance classes and strength training, and she especially recommends Wacoal’s Underwire Sports Bra. She thinks it's soft, sleek, supportive, and comfortable.

Additional reporting contributed by Gabrielle Applebury, MA, LMFT, and Sarah Felbin

Gabrielle Applebury, MA, LMFT, is a licensed marriage and family therapist and the associate editor for Verywell Fit. Whether focusing on workout gear, apparel, or other products, she's dedicated to providing recommendations based on thorough research and testing.

With over two decades of dance experience, Sarah Felbin loves diving into the latest wellness research. As a Verywell Fit writer, she’s passionate about finding products that are of great value and make life easier. Of the three sports bras she tested for this story, she liked Knix’s Catalyst Sports Bra the best because it was supportive with a stylish, flattering design—her favorite combination.