'I'm A Trainer, And These Are The High-Impact Sports Bras I Actually Recommend'

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If you've ever worn two sports bras to keep your breasts in place while training, you know the struggle of having large breasts. But, there's no need to live through that misery anymore. If you have a sports bra that's specifically designed for high-impact or high-intensity activity, bouncy boobs should be yesterday's problem.

Whether you have a large chest, saggy breasts, or small boobs, a high-impact high-impact sports bra is a must for everyone (yes, even if you have DDD boobs!). And, the technology has sure come a long way over the years. From creative construction and technology that cuts back on bounce to designs that keep you comfy (no more too-tight-to-move constriction!), big brands like Amazon, Brooks, and Lululemon, as well as smaller labels like Knix and Superfit Hero have found some seriously innovative ways to make sports bras less uncomfortable and more supportive than ever before.

Best high-impact sports bras

What to consider

Since everyone is built differently, picking the best high-impact sports bra will vary from person to person. “This is truly based on your own size and comfort,” says personal trainer Calyn Brooke. She suggests trying out a few to see what works best for you, and testing them during high-impact activity versus everyday wear. But, here are a few key attributes to keep in mind while shopping:

Support

Encapsulation and compression are two features that will be your best bet for keeping everything in one place through any type of workout—because if you’re moving in all directions, your boobs will be, too. Some options on this list have medium support, which means they have slightly less compression. But most options have high support, which is the preferred choice if you wan't to hold the girls in place. Pro tip: size down if you want your bra to be slightly tighter and minimize movement even further.

Sizing

Bras labeled as S, M, L, and XL aren't as precise as those with cup sizes (some options on this list use these general sizes). Bras that specify both cup and band sizes offer a more tailored fit. For example, if your cup size differs from your band size, these measurements help you find the perfect fit. On the other hand, bras labeled with just a single size may not provide the same level of accuracy.

Materials

A pool of sweat is never fun to sit in during or after a workout. Ensuring your bra is made of materials that are quick-drying, breathable, and help keep leftover sweat at bay is key for comfortability. This often means searching for bras made with ventilation and moisture-wicking or quick-drying materials like nylon and elastane. Of course, a fabric that feels nice when you touch it is a must, too, according to Joanna Griffiths, founder of the brand Knix.

How we tested and selected

For the past few months, Women’s Health editors, including our commerce editor Lily Wohlner, fitness editor Talene Appleton, NASM, and editorial assistant Sabrina Talbert, along with certified personal trainer Nellie Barnett have been researching and testing the bestselling and top-rated high-impact sports bras.

We collaborated with our team of anonymous testers, led by Barnett, to narrow down the best high-impact sports bras for a wide range of needs and preferences. Additionally, our team consulted industry experts including Joanna Griffiths, founder of the brand Knix, Barbara Ebersberger, Reebok’s vice president of performance apparel, and certified personal trainer Calyn Brooke on their top picks.

Below, WH editors and anonymous testers dive into the 13 best high-impact sports bras for every need.

Sports Bra

Experience the power of mesh support with this sports bra, which keeps the breasts in place during harder workouts (and looks super nice while it's at it!). It also does an amazing job of smoothing out the back area so you look sleek and tight in your workout clothes.

One WH editor loves wearing this bra by itself, as the back of it is super cute to show off at the gym. It's also ultra-smoothing so you don't have to stress about any fat spilling out when you're least expecting it (who can relate?).

Infinity 2.0 High Sports Bra

"This sports bra holds everything in place and the thick bands offer more support," certified personal trainer Nellie Barnett, founder of Nellbells Fitness, reported after testing this bra. "I like the cut of the back of this style since it hugs the lats to keep the straps pulled back." It features adjustable strap length and style (U-shaped or crossed) and a quick-dry, water-wicking material that lets your skin breathe.

Aside from thick, supportive, adjustable straps, our reviewers love this bra for its overall fit and subtly-molded cups. They provide distinct support to each boob, offering a flattering, even shape that won't pancake your chest flat.

Indy High Support

This sports bra offers great support for high-impact training for sizes XS to 2XL. According to Nellie, "the straps are thick with extra cushion to provide more comfort over the shoulder blades and prevent any digging." The band underneath is also uber-comfortable and stays securely in place without being overly tight or chafing.

Out of the many sports bras she's worn throughout her fitness journey, this bra is among her favorites because of how well it holds everything in place during high intensity training while also remaining comfortable.

Spot Comfort Sports Bra

This wireless bra offers top-notch support, while using molded cups to flatter your natural shape under tank tops or t-shirts. It's a top-rated buy on Amazon among people who love its wider band size and soft, comfy shoulder straps.

The Women's Health team also loves that it comes in a variety of fun colors from bright pink to royal blue. The shades are so cute, you can wear them alone while you're out for a jog (no tank necessary).

Crossback 2.0 Sports Bra

Brooks launched this series of sports bras after spending nine years researching and developing the technology used to reduce bounce and help women feel more supported specifically when running.

Nellie loved how this bra felt, hugging and contouring to her body to hold everything in place. "This is a runners sports bra, so the material is quick dry and so soft," she said. "I'll definitely wear this for my high-impact training, even though that's not running."

This style is incredibly soft with its sweat-wicking, ultra-smooth fabric, which reduces chaffing and digging. Our reviewers found this style to be supportive for sizes 34C and below, but felt it may lack support for larger sizes due to its lack of adjustable straps.

PWRbreathe RUN High Support Bra

If you struggle with side boob slippage in most sports bras, this style from Puma is a great option. "It has great coverage and feels super secure when performing high impact training," Nellie reported after testing.

"The band is thick and doesn't ride up, and the cup padding is stitched so it stays in place." We also love that the straps are thick and seamless on the part that passes over the shoulders and traps, so it doesn't chafe or irritate the skin.

Sports Bra

There's nothing worse than a sweaty sports bra that sticks to you during your workout, but this one avoids that hassle completely. Featuring water-wicking technology and a soft performance stretch fabric, comfort is at the forefront of this bra.

While many high-impact sports bras can feel super tight, this one feels light around the chest without slacking on support. Some people have even worn this bra to hot yoga, which speaks to its breathability and lightweight feel (because who wants to feel constricted in a hot room?).

No-Bounce High Impact Sports Bra

Fabletics has updated their high-support sports bra with a higher neckline and a wider bottom band, providing more coverage and support than ever. Perforated details on the new version also enhance breathability, making it a perfect choice for sweaty HIIT sessions.

Its moisture-wicking properties keep sweat at bay, while UPF protection makes it ideal for outdoor activities, shielding you from harmful UV rays. The non-adjustable straps feel limiting for some, but our testers felt this design actually contributed to the bra's overall stability and support.

One notable aspect of Nellie's testing experience with this bra is the importance of sizing. While the medium size initially seemed appropriate, she recommends sizing down for a tighter, more supportive fit.

Lightweight High Support Sports Bra

Constructed with lightweight, breathable materials, this sports bra strikes a balance between support and comfort. It features a secure racerback design and contoured lines underbust that offer not only added support but also a flattering silhouette. The mesh back panel enhances breathability, keeping you cool and dry even during the most grueling workouts.

While the padding in the bra portion may feel thick to some, it provides even more support for high-impact training. However, it's important to note that the padding in the bra is not removable, which may be a downside for some.

During our testing, we found the band and shape of the bra to offer excellent support for high-impact activities. At the same time, this bra feels more lightweight and less compressive than most similarly supportive options.

Catalyst Bra

This bra has it all—adjustable straps, a hook-and-eye back closure, sizes ranging from 32A to 42G, and smooth, soft material. That means this bra will help you check all your boxes for a comfy workout.

The brand also uses its patented Tri-Flow ventilation technology, which increases airflow where your body gets the hottest (aka right between your breasts).

Our tester loves that this bra has zero bounce during her runs. Plus, it's comfortable and easy to get on and off.

Read More: The Best Strapless Bras For Big Boobs

Energy Bra

This signature high-impact, sweat-wicking bra from Lululemon, which is a favorite of WH news editor Currie Engel, is designed to look sleek, thanks to its round neck and strappy design in the back. It also has a soft underband that won't dig into you as you work out.

Nellie loved this style of sports bra for its aesthetic, which she felt outshined its support. "The compressive fit holds everything in place, but there is still some bounce during high-impact activities."

Both this style and the super high-impact option often run out fast on the site, but the Run Times Bra ($68) is another great option for major support. Plus, this and the high-impact style are suitable for a wide range of breast sizes from "B" to "DDD" cups.

Ultimate Sports Bra

This is like the Swiss Army Knife of sports bras. The straps are really adjustable (you can add up to 15 extra inches) and convertible (so they can be worn in an "H" or "X" style). The front zipper also makes this bra easier for women with large breasts to get on or off. The zipper guard also protects against chafing during wear, so you don't have to worry about your skin rubbing up against the edge of the zipper (thank goodness!).

Our tester, who loves HIIT workouts, says this high-impact bra holds everything in place with the most comfortable support. Plus, she loves that the straps are totally adjustable.

Racerback Sports Bra

Carrying sizes "L" through "7XL", Superfit Hero is the go-to athletic-wear brand for inclusive sizing. It boasts a longline design for extra coverage and support whether you're lounging around the house or engaging in medium or high-impact movement. When you wear this bra, you don't have to stress about dreaded lumps and bumps showing through your shirt or, worst of all, nip slips (dun, dun, dun).

Meet the experts

• Calyn Brooke is a certified personal trainer based in Scottsdale, Arizona.

• Joanna Griffiths is the founder of the brand Knix.

• Barbara Ebersberger is Reebok’s vice president of performance apparel.

• Nellie Barnett, CPT, is an online fitness and wellness coach, glute specialist, and the founder of Nellbells Fitness.

How do you know if a sports bra is high-impact?

When 'high-impact' is used to describe exercise, it typically means your body is hitting something with a lot of force. For example, running or jumping can both be considered high-impact activities. During a high-impact move, you're likely jumping, twisting, or bouncing around, which means your breasts probably are, too.

A high-impact bra can act as extra support to minimize some of that bounce. For women with larger chests, they may even be useful for low-impact or low-intensity activities, too, says Brooke.

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