9 best sports bras, reviewed by Glamour's fittest editors
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Sports bras — arguably one of the most important pieces of activewear, even though very few people actually see them. Yet if you want to avoid sore boobs, an aching back and some major distraction, it's wise to get them right.
Need further convincing to invest? Portsmouth University's Research Group in Breast Health found that when athletes were given an individual ‘bra prescription’, 97% reported benefits in comfort, fit and support. Another 17% also said it significantly improved their performance.
“How you dress can have a direct impact on your mood and your overall performance when exercising,” adds personal trainer and Pilates instructor, Rachel Lopez. “When doing your workout, your focus should be fixated on form and mind to muscle connection, not your outfit and how it makes you feel. An uncomfortable bra can also lead to tension headaches, upper back tension and neck pain.”
So what do you need to consider when looking for the right sports bra? Experts say there are three key things to consider, including a good, comfy fit — you want the underband lying flat across your ribs and chest bone the whole way round — suitable levels of support (high for runners, medium to low for yoga or Pilates) and, of course, aesthetics.
But to save you the hassle, three shopping writers have reviewed a host of sports bras to track down the very best, including those made from sweat-wicking materials or those offering high coverage and maximum support for high-impact workouts. So, read on to discover the best bras for working out in 2026, as well as answers to common FAQs, answered by industry experts.
Ahead, the best sports bras in 2026, approved by Glamour's fittest editors:
- Material: 83% recycled polyester, 17% elastane.
- Sizes: XXS (28A-28C) — XL D-DD (36D-36DD).
- Support level: High.
Sophie Donovan says: My pet peeves when it comes to sports bras? Straps that dig in, or having to squeeze one over my head. But the hook-and-eye closure on the back of this On bra made it easy to slip on and adjust for a more secure fit. I also loved the bonded fittings, giving it a seamless look under tight vests. Support-wise, I'd definitely say it's high, considering my chest didn't feel like it was bouncing at all during my weekly 1Rebel Reshape class. Plus, you can match your bra to leggings, shorts, and flares, depending on your workout. An all-rounder I would invest in again.
OUR RATING: 9.5/10Pros & ConsPros- Adjustable straps and back closure.
- Bonded seams, meaning minimal irritation and chafing.
- Seamless design.
Cons- An investment.
Zenvy Women's Light-Support Lightly Lined Sports Bra
- Material: 69% nylon, 31% elastane.
- Sizes: XXS (28A-28E) — XXL (40D-40E or 42A-42C).
- Support level: Light.
Sophie Donovan says: I have few complaints about Nike's selection of running trainers — but sports bras? Undiscovered territory. I did have concerns that this cut-out design would offer style with minimal substance, but I can confirm I felt supported enough to focus on my yoga instructor's flow. True to size, it offered light compression and a flattering fit — even if the straps aren't at all adjustable. And the sapphire colourway? Stunning.
Save when you shop for the best sports bras with these Nike discount codes.
OUR RATING: 7.5/10Pros & ConsPros- Dri-FIT technology moves sweat away from your skin for quicker evaporation.
- Keyhole design aids ventilation.
- Retains its shape really well — even after 10+ washes.
Cons- Only three colourways — but super unique design.
- Material: 70% polyamide, 30% elastane.
- Sizes: XXS (28AA-28A) — XXL (44DD).
- Support level: Medium.
Chloe Gray says: Everyone is in Adanola these days – and after testing it myself, I can see why. The longline fit is great for a little extra coverage in the gym or yoga studio, while the removable padding can add or subtract support depending on your preference. The material is also super soft, which makes it a dream to move in, while the minimalist cut is flattering on everyone.
Save when you shop for the best sports bras with these Adanola discount codes.
OUR RATING: 8/10Pros & ConsPros- Longline design offers a little extra coverage.
- Removable padding.
- Super comfortable, thanks to its 4-way stretch and elasticated underband.
Cons- I found it came up a little large, so size down one.
- Material: 50% elastane, 50% polyamide.
- Sizes: 30A — 38F.
- Support level: High.
Sophie Donovan says: I'm training for a marathon, and am therefore out training all. the. time. As well as needing the support on the big day itself, I need everything in place on the lead-up – including the girls, so to speak. This sports bra has done exactly that; it's super lightweight and yet it withstands high-impact and long-distance runs. The dream. I also love the fact that it has a bra closure at the back, so there's no tight squeeze to get it on and off.
Save when you shop for the best sports bras with these Sweaty Betty discount codes.
OUR RATING: 9/10Pros & ConsPros- The only bra in this edit sold in exact bra sizes.
- No tugging over your head, thanks to the twin fastenings.
- I can confirm the anti-bounce design means minimal movement.
- Ultra-lightweight, sweat-wicking fabric.
Cons- Literally none.
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- Material: 78% polyester, 22% elastane.
- Sizes: XXS — XXL.
- Support level: Medium.
Chloe Gray says: When I'm getting ready for an early morning workout and want to feel great without putting in any thought, I reach for this bra. Some may not love the lower-cut style, especially if you have a larger chest, but I find it supportive to wear during strength training.
OUR RATING: 8.5/10Pros & ConsPros- Flattering scrunch design.
- Customise the fit with the removable padding and adjustable straps.
- Super affordable option.
- 7 colourways to choose from.
Cons- The lower cut isn't so big bust-friendly.
DayFlex Double Layer Sports Bra
- Material: 75% recycled polyamide, 25% elastane.
- Sizes: XS (32A-32C) — XL (38D-40C).
- Support level: Light to medium.
Sophie Donovan says: TALA's scrunch bum leggings are the pair I reach for when I need a little self-confidence boost, and I also have an intense attachment to my three — minimalist she is not — hoodies. This sports bra, though, is sadly not one for those with big busts. Don't get me wrong — it's a gorgeous design and ideal for lounging, scoring top marks for comfort. But in terms of support, it was lacking. If you've got anything up to a C cup, you're likely safe — but I'd still save it for low-impact workouts like yoga and Pilates.
OUR RATING: 7/10Pros & ConsPros- Pilates and yoga-friendly.
- A more sustainable option, made with 75% recycled materials.
- Cute, double-layered design with contrasting colour.
Cons- I found it bobbled over time, especially under my arms.
SoftMotion High Neck Sports Bra
- Material: 81% polyamide, 19% elastane.
- Sizes: XS — XL.
- Support level: Light.
Sophie Donovan says: I'm not sure how I'd missed discovering Oner Active — yet upon mentioning I was testing one of the brand's sports bras to my friends, I was bombarded with praise. And I can confirm that I am now a fan. I loved the most modest front of this sports bra — but also the fact that it flaunts my back gains. The fact that this style comes in at under £50 and in 12 colours (!) was also a major win. Support-wise, there was some movement, meaning this one's probably best suited to strength training or Pilates.
OUR RATING: 8.5/10Pros & ConsPros- Offers more coverage in the front while still flaunting your back gains.
- Flattering dipped front seam.
- 12 colourways — all with matching bottoms.
- Removable bra pads.
Cons- A little difficult to layer.
- Material: 77% recycled nylon, 23% elastane.
- Sizes: XXS (UK 6) — XL (16-18).
- Support level: Medium.
Sophie Cockett says: lululemon sports bras are my favourite for comfort and support. The buttery smooth material reduces irritation while the cross-back style adds extra support and a flattering neckline. It withstands gym workouts, doesn't budge during stretching and could be worn on light jogs too. This bra also comes in loads of colour-ways, but often sells out.”
Save when you shop for the best sports bras with these lululemon discount codes.
OUR RATING: 8/10Pros & ConsPros- Medium support that doesn't feel restrictive.
- Pockets for optional, removable cups.
- I found this super quick-drying, making it ideal for hot yoga.
- 100% of the polyester in this product is recycled.
Cons- Not the most supportive option for larger busts.
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Sports bra FAQs, answered:
The first step to finding a good-fitting sports bra is to use a tape measure to check your band size and cup size. A sports bra should feel snug, with the underband lying flat across your ribs and chest bone the whole way round. You should be able to fit two fingers between the straps and your shoulders – any more, and they might be too big, any less, and it's likely too tight.
You also shouldn't have any loose fabric to pick up or pull at around the cups, nor should you feel like you're spilling out of the cup.
“The type of movement they are going to use it for is the first consideration when buying a sports bra," says Rachel Lopez, PT and Pilates instructor. “Someone heading out for a run will need something very supportive that covers more skin area to minimise movement, while those doing yoga will need something more lightweight and stretchy to accommodate their flows and twists.”
If you're a sweaty person, or you are going to wear your sports bra during sweaty workouts, you might want to consider whether your material is sweat-wicking and breathable. It will mean the material dries faster, so you aren't wearing wet fabric. In winter months, you'll likely want a technical material that can keep you warm without overheating.
For workouts where you'll be lying on the floor or leaning against surfaces, make sure your seams and straps won't lead to discomfort. Seamless options can be great for yoga and Pilates; for this reason, we opt for softer, flatlay seams.
“I always recommend clients not to wear this sports bra all the time and to prioritise it for gym time only, says Lopez. “Without the constant support of a bra, your pectoral muscles will have no choice but to activate and support the breast tissue.”
Personally, I often wear low-impact sports bras and bralettes throughout the day, as these tend to be comfortable, soft material and without any pull on my chest. But I wouldn't wear anything that's designed for gym workouts, running or higher impact activities outside of my workouts.
Meet the experts:
| Chloe Gray | A health and fitness editor, fitness trainer and avid exerciser. I wear sports bras to exercise in every single day, so I know what works for pretty much every style of training. |
| Rachel Lopez | A PT and Pilates instructor, she's trained hundreds of women and has to wear a sports bra to work every day, so she's a reliable source when discussing activewear. |
| Sophie Cockett | Sophie is Glamour's Senior European Commerce Editor, overseeing the shopping content strategy for Glamour UK, Glamour Germany and Glamour Spain. She regularly attends Pilates, HIIT and strength classes. |
| Sophie Donovan | Sophie is Glamour's Senior Commerce Writer, overseeing the wellness and gifting shopping strategy. This includes reviewing the latest activewear, menstrual health and supplement launches. She is also a keen runner, having completed two half-marathons and attends multiple F45 classes a week. |
How we test the best sports bras:
We have road tested loads of the best bras for sports over the years, and there are some key factors we look for when testing sports bras:
| Support | The two types of sports bra support are compression — where the breasts are pushed in towards the chest wall to limit movement — and encapsulation — in which each breast is cupped by material. I like bras with both style of support — as long as it's genuinely strong enough to hold me in during workouts. |
| Fit | I've outlined more about what makes for a good fitting sports bra below, but finding a bra that genuinely fits your own body shape is really important — yet it's thought that 90% of women wear the wrong size sports bra. |
| Style | Yes, it's important that the bra looks good. But by ‘style’ I mean whether the sports bra is the right cut and design for your style of training. The best bra for running won't be the same as the best bra for yoga, and it's important that a bra designed for a certain sport fits its brief. |
| Quality | A sports bra could be the best fit in the world, but if it starts fraying or loosening after a few wears, then it's not going to cut it. Sports bras can be an investment, so making sure it's high quality is important. |
Unsurprisingly, only the sports bras that impressed made it into this edit. However, I also tried the following:
- lululemon's Flow Y Bra Light Support, £38 — Multiple design choices and great price point, but exclusively for those with a small bust, considering it offers virtually no support.
In terms of what I'm currently testing, stay tuned for these reviews:
- Shock Absorber's D+ Max Sports Bra, £43
- Good Move's Ultimate Support Non Wired Sports Bras, £30
- Vouri's Daily Form Bra, £70
You can also read more about how Glamour tests products here.
Why you can trust me:
I've been reviewing underwear, shapewear, activewear, and wellness products, such as cotton underwear, sports bras, and period pants, for almost three years — that's one year at Women's Health and 17 months at Glamour. During that time, I've seen countless trends and advancements, as well as a boom in our options.
But to ensure I am an authority on functional fashion and sports gear, I regularly attend press launches, read the latest journals and interviews, and chat one-on-one with sportswear designers, women's health experts and brand founders, asking for their insight and shopping tips.
In terms of my personal experience, as a fluctuating DD/E cup, I too struggle to find sports bras that are both aesthetic enough to be worn alone for hot yoga and super supportive. In fact, I think I've tried more than 30 styles to date, regularly disappointed with the lack of adjustable straps or lacklustre compression. However, while researching for this piece, I stepped outside of my comfort zone to try a host of different styles, designs and new brands to help me identify the very best sports bras for both low and high-impact workouts.
But, because a girl can only try so many sports bras, I've also asked my fellow shopping editors and some dedicated freelancers to review a selection, too. The samples or gifts they received were ranked against the same criteria after being worn for multiple workouts over the course of a month.
