Top 11 Tested and Reviewed Sports Bras for Larger Breasts in 2023

Article Summary

If you are well-endowed, you've probably had your fair share of problems with your bust during high-impact fitness routines from running to kettlebell workouts and plyometrics. This discomfort can persuade you to quit such workouts, since the pain of chest bounce is very real. Also, sports bras that are too tight can be extremely uncomfortable and even painful, and you may also struggle to take them off after a sweaty workout session.

Therefore, it is critical to find a sports bra that fits perfectly: one that's not too loose or too tight, and offers just the right amount of support. It is critical to remember that a good sports bra can minimize bounce by up to 53 percent. This is quite significant considering that an unsupported D-cup could move two to three inches in any direction. This is according to Joanna Wakefield-Scurr, Ph.D.

Let's journey through the best sports bras for large busts in 2023, as tested by our staff.

The Champion Spot Comfort sports bra emerged as the surprise value option from Champion, a well-established athletic wear brand. Testers found the straps easy to adjust, and appreciated the augmented support provided by the three hook choices on the back band. Furthermore, the band directly below the cups provides excellent support, securing the bust while participating in high-impact exercises, without causing discomfort.

The testers were equally impressed with the comfort of this sports bra for larger chests, largely due to the gel padding in the adjustable straps, which alleviates shoulder pressure, a common problem for people with large chests. One tester noted that the sports bra was not only supremely comfy to wear but also easy to put on. Another key point is the durability of this sports bra; even after numerous washings, it showed no visible signs of wear and tear.

The main critique was that the bra's straps slightly protrude when worn under tank tops. So if you are looking for a completely concealed sports bra, this may not be ideal. The available sizes range from 34C to 42DDD. The material composition is 76% nylon, 24% spandex, and it offers shoulder strap and back band adjustments.

The Wacoal Simone Sport Underwire Bra also received high marks for its support during various workouts, attributed majorly to its broad straps and band. The sports bra has special features such as an underwire on the exterior to prevent chafing, and loose cups to avoid uniboob appearance.

However, testers felt that the bra did not exactly run true to size, particularly the band. The shoulder strap adjustment was found a bit tedious. It is composed of 80% nylon, 20% spandex/elastane, and available in sizes from 32C to 42I.

The All Powered Up Bra from lululemon, although labeled as medium support, met all the testers' expectations during high-impact workouts. It provides chest support intended to prevent chest bounce while negating the typical problems of sweating and flattening. Despite the higher price, testers considered the quality to be worth the investment.

Take note that wearing a bra with extra support might lead to slight discomfort due to shoulder straps digging into the skin. This is primarily experienced by testers who wore the All Powered Up Bra for several hours at a time.

Sizes: 32B to 42DDD︱Material: 71% nylon, 29% elastane︱Adjustability: Shoulder straps slide for adjustment as well as a hook-and-eye back band

Women well-endowed are aware of the importance of molded cups for maintaining a proper silhouette during workouts. The Athleta Advance sports bra scored well among testers for its encapsulated cups, enhancing breast support and separation. Testers agreed that despite these foam cups' immovability, they remained in place even after washing.

Expect that finding the ideal fit for this sports bra might require several attempts. One tester noted, “Unless you achieve a perfect band measurement and are comfortable with the available hook and eye closure options, adjusting this bra may be challenging. The V-shaped straps can be hard to reach over your shoulder and set correctly."

Sizes: 32G to 44DD︱Material: Not specified︱Adjustability: Includes both sliding shoulder straps and a hook-and-eye back band

Currently, a top-tier sports bra can cost $60 or more. However, the Glamorise No-Bounce Cami Wire-Free Sports Bra gave our testers ample support at a more affordable price. This sports bra features a high neckline and true-to-size encapsulated cups that prevent sagging or gaping. Testers praised the snug fit, with one person specifically mentioning the lack of spandex as a determining factor. The absence of spandex ensures a consistent tight fit, preventing movement during exercise. One downside to note: the material blend might find this sports bra a bit rougher than others.

Sizes: 34C to 50J︱Material: 70% polyester, 25% nylon, 5% elastane︱Adjustability: Adjustable shoulder straps slide and include a hook-and-eye back band

Whether you are just starting to jog or always preparing for your next half-marathon, the Panache Ultimate High Impact Underwire Sports Bra assures that your breasts stay in place when running. Bouncing is not only distracting but can also cause discomfort and potentially result in armpit chafing. But, the secure fit can compromise comfort, as per some testers' feedback. This sports bra is ideal for high-intensity activities, but might not be the preferred choice for relaxing weekends.

Sizes: 28B to 40J︱Material: 49% polyamide, 36% polyester, 15% elastane︱Adjustability: Shoulder straps are adjustable and there is a hook-and-eye back band

For full-figured women with smaller figures, finding a sports bra often involves a sacrifice—fitting either the cups or band. The Syokan Underwire Molded Cup High Impact Sports Bra won favors from testers for being supportive yet sleek. But, be cautious: the bra's contrasting stitchwork may add visual appeal but can potentially snag and fray over time. Handle with care when washing and drying.

Sizes: 28B to 40J | Material: 49% polyamide, 36% polyester, 15% elastane | Adjustability: Features sliding shoulder straps and a hook-and-eye back band

The Paloma Bra from cult-favorite activewear brand Girlfriend Collective stands out for its cozy compression. This feature makes it suitable for low-impact exercises like spinning, yoga, Pilates, or walking. The sports bra's long-line silhouette and thick fabric give it a stylish look. It's available in a range of trendy, rich colors and can be comfortably worn as a standalone top due to an absence of individual cups.

Encapsulation, on the other hand, is found in sports bras with individual cups. The advantage of encapsulation sports bras is that they lift and separate each breast, giving a more flattering silhouette while still providing plenty of support. Research from Joanna Wakefield-Scurr, Ph.D., a biomechanist at the University of Portsmouth in the United Kingdom who studies bounce, found that sports bras with these individual cups are more comfortable for women with large breasts.

Sports bras can come with a dizzying array of shoulder strap options: racerback, scoop necks with H-shaped straps, criss-cross, or thick, wide straps. Beyond design, how should you choose the best strap type for your sports bra?

People with large breasts will generally find either racerback or H-straps most supportive. Since racerback bras clasp in the back, the sports bra will fit closer to your body (read: it’s more supportive). H-straps, meanwhile, are easier to get up and over big breasts without awkward maneuvering. Regardless of which strap type you prefer, look for wide straps (at least a couple of inches across), which help distribute weight better for bigger cup sizes.

As the senior fitness editor at Shape, Kristen Geil has spent the last several years trying every workout under the sun, and you’ll find her in a sports bra more often than not. Kristen is a NASM-certified personal trainer who regularly covers fitness products and tests exercise apparel. She led the first-ever Best in Fitness Awards, the largest awards program in the industry, and personally oversaw the nomination process for products in 170 categories (including sports bras and other apparel categories).