Your cart is empty
You May Also Like
Finding the right sports bra allows you to focus 100% on your training. From the gym to the streets, this guide shares all you need to know about activity levels, coverage and styles, so you can push harder and run faster in complete comfort.
Looking for a workout outfit? Shop our favorite workout clothes.
The first step in choosing a sports bra is knowing your size. This prevents you from getting a bra that’s too loose, or worse, too tight. Sports bras are measured by both band size and cup size.
Tip: If you need to do this unassisted, measure yourself in front of a mirror and keep the measuring tape as straight as you can, parallel to the floor.
Example: Band measurement = 32.5”, round up to 33, + 1 = 34
(See below for our chart on sports cup sizing)
| Difference | Cup Size |
| 1 inch | AA |
| 1 inch | A |
| 2 inch | B |
| 3 inch | C |
| 4 inch | D |
| 5 inch | E |
| 6 inch | F |
| SIZE - TOP | XS | S | M | L | XL |
| US | 0 | 1-3 | 5-7 | 9 | 11 |
| BUST | 33 - 33½ | 34½ - 35 | 36 - 36½ | 38 - 38½ | 40 - 40½ |
| CUP | A-B | A-C | A-C | A-D | A-D |
You need the right support level for your activity. This keeps your bust as stable as possible and limits injury and pain from excessive movement.
Support needs vary according to cup size.
The first step in choosing a sports bra is deciding which type is best for you. There are two main types of construction: compression and encapsulation.
Compression sports bras use pressure on all sides to constrain and minimize movement for extra support. They are pullover designs that offer large coverage, like the traditional racerback style, without individual cups built in.
Suitable for cup sizes AA-B for high impact sports or all sizes for lower impact activities.
Designed with built-in cups that support each breast individually. Encapsulation sports bras are similar in design to a standard bra and don’t compress the chest. They feature clasps in the back or zippers in front.
Suitable for all sizes, especially cup sizes C and up, thanks to the extra support they offer.
Some sports bras combine compression and encapsulation features.
Ideal for high impact sports including cup sizes D and up across all activity levels.
Sports bras come in three strap types, each with their own purpose. Choose a strap that suits the intensity level of your workout.
Crisscrosses in the back. These straps are often adjustable to dial in the fit. They’re a go-to for low to medium intensity exercise with the crisscross providing additional support.
The most recognizable sports bra shape. The racerback features straps that meet between your shoulder blades to form a Y. Ideal for low to high intensity workouts this style offers the most chest coverage and although straps aren’t adjustable, they stay in place easily. If you have a larger chest, you’ll find racerbacks most supportive if they have built-in cups.
The tank top has vertical and adjustable shoulder straps that are similar in style to your standard bra. The tank is usually an encapsulation design that suits low to medium intensity exercise (depending on strap width and coverage).
Clasp choice depends on personal preference. Sports bras are categorized by three closure types: pullover, back clasp and front zip.
Pullover sports bras are put on over your head. They’re usually a compression construction with a racerback and elasticized lining in the underband. These take more effort to pull on and off.
Sports bras with back clasps have hook clasps along the back like a standard bra. They are often padded or feature underwires.
These sports bras have a zipper in the front of the bra. They are usually encapsulation bras with built-in cups and are easier to take on and off if you have a larger bust.
Pads in sports bras provide breast support to maximize stability and minimize discomfort. Excessive movement can damage ligaments or lead to stretching over time. The good news is that padded sports bras provide the additional support needed to prevent this.
Wicking technology moves sweat away from your body to the outside of the fabric where it evaporates. This minimizes skin irritation and visible sweat patches. Moisture wicking fabrics including nylon and polyester, are ideal for high intensity exercise or prolonged physical activity.
For more information, check out our article on Moisture Wicking Fabric Benefits.
An underwire is a piece of wire that runs under the cups of a bra to shape and lift the breasts. It provides support and prevents damage to ligaments. Made from metal, resin or plastic, underwires are great for supporting larger busts.
Sports bras with minimal seams and stitching allow your breasts to be supported rather than restricted. They reduce chafing and are less visible under clothing. These bras are designed to hug your body smoothly and usually come without underwires.
How To Care for Your Workout Clothes
How To Choose Compression Rashguards
How To Choose Compression Clothes
