Whether you have a large chest, saggy breasts, or small boobs, high-impact sports bras are a must for everyone. Designed for high-intensity activity, and to stop bouncy boobs, these bras are designed based on the understanding that your boobs don’t just bounce up and down when you run, jump, or twist: they actually move in a sort of figure-eight, often bumping into each other.
Your breasts are made up primarily of fatty tissue and fibers, says Deirdre McGhee, PhD, an associate professor at University of Wollongong and the director of Breast Research Australia. “Women’s breasts don’t have anatomical support,” she says. “The only thing holding their weight is overlying skin and fibrous webs attached to the chest.”
To cater to this knowledge, brands are using creative construction and technology that cuts back on bounce and keep you more comfortable than ever before (no more too-tight-to-move constriction!).
Before choosing the right sports bra for you, there are some things you should know:
What should I look for in a high impact bra?
If you have a sports bra that’s specifically designed for high-impact or high-intensity activity, it might feature one of these qualities:
1. Two distinct cups with padding (often listed as “encapsulation” on product sites)
2. A higher neckline (think: four inches or less between the “suprasternal notch”—the bony area at the base of the neck—and the top of the bra, about the width of your hand)
3. Adjustable underband
4. Material with a high nylon content (check percentages on the tag)
How do I know it fits well?
Sports bras are supposed to be tight, but not uncomfortably so. Here’s how to know if your bra is too tight, too loose, or just right:
1. Straps: You should’t feel any pain or discomfort. The straps should also be able to stretch up to one inch away from you. If the straps slide off your shoulders when snug, try a racerback design.
2. Band: The band should be level all around the rib cage and as comfortably tight as possible. You should also be able to pull the band only one to two inches away from torso with a finger.
3. Cups: The fabric should free of wrinkles and gaps, and your skin shouldn’t bulge above or around the cups. Also check the centre of the bra sits flush against your chest.
The best supportive sports bras for every type of exercise
Best Supportive Bra For Boxing
Monday Body Arches “The Tash Bra”
Designed by Australia’s Tash Oakley and her business partner, Devin Brugman, Monday Body has been meticulously tested by the duo—who were driven to create a collection that embraces and supports diverse body shapes, instilling confidence. The signature “Tash Bra” features a thick, adjustable elastic underbust band, customisable back straps, and a reinforced back ring with a hook for enhanced support. Constructed from recycled fabrics, the line offers sizes ranging from Petite to Very Voluptuous.
Most Sleek High Support Bra
Lululemon Energy Bra
Whether you love to run distances or sprints, this adjustable bra gives your boobs comfortable, held-in support so you can focus on your pace. It’s also comfortable enough to be worn out and about, plus it comes in 14 different colors to match any outfit.
Best For Large Breasts
LNDR Locked + Loaded Sports Bra
If you have a C cup or higher and enjoy a high impact / high movement workout this is the bra you’ve been waiting for. This bra has a unique internal “no bounce” layer that locks the girls down while maintaining shape and definition. It also features fixed adjustable straps, so it doesn’t loosen over time during your workout, and a secondary back clasp to ensure maximum support in all directions. The branded elastic along back edge maintains a high level of stretch to mitigate digging in without losing support and there’s padded straps for extra comfort.
Best For Cardio
Lorna Jane Amy Maximum Support Sports Bra
Previously known as the much loved Compress & Compact bra, Lorna Jane’s Maximum Support Sports Bra’s fully adjustable design ensures a customised fit, allowing you to move with confidence during intense cardio workouts. It’s also moisture wicking, so sweat away gal pal.
Best For Running
Adidas FastImpact Luxe Run High-Support Bra
Made in part with recycled materials, the Adidas FastImpact Luxe Run bra is a really great choice for runners. While the wrapped design distributes weight evenly for a secure, comfortable feel, the moisture-absorbing AEROREADY fabric will keep you sweat-free. You can customise the fit to your exact needs with the adjustable straps and chest band, too. Expect a bounce-free, chafe-free support and run free.
Best High-impact Sports Bra With Adjustable Straps
Gymshark Cut Out Back High Support Sports Bra
With lightweight, breathable designs, comfortable cups and supportive straps, you can rely on Gymshark’s Cut Out Back High Support Sports Bra to be there for you, and for yours. It’s a super adjustable for a really close fit, and is incredibly soft on the skin.
Best Padded High-impact Sports Bra
Nike Alpha Women’s High-Support Padded Adjustable Sports Bra
This bra gives you a compressive feel and minimal bounce thanks to a super secure fit. Engineered foam pads provide encapsulated support and shaping and it adjusts at the back so you can feel comfortably contained—yet still able to breathe. Ventilation on the front and back helps you stay cool through the heat of your workout. It’s also made from at least 50% recycled polyester fibres which is a nice touch.
Best Moisture-Wicking High-impact Sports Bra
UA Infinity Bra 2.0
Under Armour have just revamped their best-selling bra so it’s easier than ever to find your perfect fit and put on, adjust, convert, and take off. The Infinity Bra 2.0 syncs with the way your breasts naturally move, protecting their delicate ligaments so you can train without feeling limited. They also feature a hook and eye closure plus straps that attach and adjust from the front which is fantastic.
Most Stylish High Impact Sports Bra
Alo Power Play High-Impact Bra
Engineered to provide full support to any bust size, this bra can hold the girls in like no other, and it looks cute while doing so. The fabric dips underneath the breasts for that flattering, ultra-snatched look, too.
One reviewer, whose a size 43DD, loves wearing this bra during her dance classes, as she says it’s suited for high-intensity movements. She adds that this is one of the first styles she’s found that’s actually suited for movement.
Best Underwire High Impact Sports Bra
Stylerunner High Impact Bra
The Stylerunner The Label High Impact Bra features moulded cups, underwire and mesh panels. It’s designed to be worn through high intensity workouts and runs, minimising bounce and movement to ensure added comfort and less distractions. You’ll want it all three colours.
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