The best sports bras for every type of workout 2023 – The Hollywood Reporter

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Finding workout inspiration can be easy (look at the endless paparazzi photos of stars exiting their workouts), but shopping for the best sports bras isn’t always so easy. The difference between the right sports bra and the wrong one can make all the difference in your training. Ideally, your sports bra is comfortable, supportive, and minimizes bouncing, so you can go all out for that run, HIIT class, weight training session, or yoga practice. Worst case scenario, you are distracted from your activity because your sports bra is uncomfortable and the wrong level of support.

Finding the best sports bra for your body is ultimately very personal. But there are a few simple things to keep in mind when shopping that will help you find what you’re looking for. The first is support, which will be determined by your activity and your chest size. An F cup going for a run will need something very different from an A cup hitting the reformer. For added support, look for full-coverage styles, sturdy straps, compressive fabrics, and molded cups, which help reduce bounce.

Related: The Best Fitness Mirrors to Improve Your Home Workouts

Sports bra sizing is not universal, with some brands choosing size by letter (such as S, M, L), number (0, 2, 4) or by band and cup size (eg 34D ). To get the right fit when shopping online for sports bras, you’ll want to check the brand’s sizing chart and grab a tape measure to get your most recent measurements.

The type of workout is another factor to consider. Low-impact exercises require at least one foot off the ground: think yoga, Pilates, cycling, swimming, rowing, and other joint-gentle activities. High-impact workouts include running, HIIT (high-intensity interval training), CrossFit, tennis, and others that burn more calories. Medium-impact activities fall somewhere in between, such as more intense cycling, intermediate to expert hiking, and elliptical training, to name a few.

Ahead, we’ve rounded up some of the best sports bras for running, big busts, low to high impact and more. Check out our top picks from Nike, Lululemon, Athleta, Girlfriend and other top activewear brands below.

Nike Dri-Fit Alpha High Support Sports Bra

BEST SUPPORTIVE SPORTS BRA OVERALL

One of the best sports bras for high-impact workouts, the Alpha Padded Bra from Nike offers the brand’s highest level of support. Wide, adjustable straps and a hook-and-eye closure at the back let you customize the fit so you feel snug, but still comfortable. Dri-Fit technology keeps you comfortable and dry, while front and back perforations make the design breathable.

Lululemon Energy Longline Bra

BEST FOR LARGE BUSTS

Designed for yoga and working out, the Lululemon Energy Longline Bra offers medium support and is best suited for cup sizes B to D. It features removable cups and is made from sweat-wicking fabric cool to the touch.

Exhale Athleta Bra

BEST MEDIUM COVERAGE FOR LOW IMPACT WORKOUTS

Designed for yoga, studio, and floor practice, this buttery-soft Athleta sports bra offers just enough support for low-impact activities. Straps are designed for shoulder and neck comfort, best suited for A to C cups; Sizes D to DD+ also available. (Plus, save 20% off your entire purchase through January 23.)