If finding a well-fitting bra is a challenge, then shopping for that of the activewear variety is another beast entirely. We not only want to find a sports bra that is comfortable and supportive enough to withstand a long run or work-out class, but it should also ideally be stylish and flattering (so no armpit pinching), and the fabric should wick sweat too. Not too much to ask for, right?
With so many sports bras out there it can be hard to find the right one for you and the activity you’re embarking upon. So who better to give us some sports bra shopping advice than the strong sportswomen who wear them daily for their practice and profession. Scroll below to see the must-have bras and brands that a running coach, an athlete, a dance instructor, and a yoga teacher love, wear, and highly recommend—perfect for your next work out.
Tara Emerson, CMT Athlete Personal Trainer
"Get ready to shine like Wonder Woman. This bra makes you feel fierce and vibrant! I like the medium support of this bra, plus, the shiny fabric doesn’t reveal that I’ve been sweating bullets."
"This baby can withstand my high-intensity workouts because it’s been crafted from a compressive fabric that's sweat-wicking and smooth to the touch. I have it in multiple colors and it’s my go-to pick. Did I mention it’s also sustainable? Their Diamond Compression is made from recycled plastic bottles so you can feel extra good as you work up a sweat."
"Terez always has the best prints and patterns- making my activewear colorful and fun! This bra is their staple style and has a high neck for the right amount of coverage. I have this bra in multiple patterns and it’s even reversible for the day you don’t feel like wearing a print."
"For a great sports bra that has staying power (it will last you for years) and won’t break the bank, Sweaty Betty knows what they are doing. It’s seamless and compressive, so it looks smooth under a top, and most importantly, it comes in over a dozen colors."
Jes Woods, Nike Running Coach
"To be honest, I wear this sports bra as a normal bra in my day-to-day because it is the softest thing I own. I assume it would perform well in restorative active recovery activities, but it's honestly great to put on post-workout as well."
"Aside from its practical functionality, this bra just looks really good too. And instead of two removable pads, it comes with one horizontal removable pad which is so much easier to wash and dry."
"I love this sports bra for super sweaty days where I don't want any extra padding to become drenched in sweat. Plus, it offers a surprising amount of support given its minimal construction."
"This bra eliminates the guesswork out of 'which sports bra should I wear for X activity today?' I feel like it performs well with running, yoga, gym work, cycling, you name it. It's just a great all-around sports bra (and affordable)."
Nicole Haworth, Dancer/Trainer, Co-Creator of The Workout LA
"You can really never go wrong with anything by Alo Yoga. The fit is always amazing and they always add a sexy element to activewear with cut-outs, low backs, or deep v necks."
"Any Ivy Park drop is always sold out within days for good reason! Their workout clothes are somehow really fitted and supported but also leave you feeling like the amazing woman you are. I typically have to search resale sights (Poshmark, stock x, etc) to find my favorite pieces but it's definitely worth the hassle!"
"I recently discovered Adam Selman Sport and am obsessed! His activewear is really uniquely designed and feels very high-end. An underwire bra like this one provides support no matter what kind of workout you're doing and although I am typically not big on prints, he gets it right every time."
"I recently discovered Adam Selman Sport and I'm obsessed! His activewear is uniquely designed and feels very high-end. An underwire bra like this one provides support no matter what kind of workout you're doing and although I am typically not big on prints, he gets it right every time."
"Year of Ours is my go too for any shoots we do for The Workout LA (a dance + pilates based fitness method). I love how they do bright colors and the fit on everything is always 10/10."
Phyllicia Bonanno, Yoga Instructor
"This bra tank has built-in shelf support. Perfect for yoga or wearing with regular clothing."
"This is one of my favorite bras of all! The material has a slick sheen that gives it a super-luxe look."
"I love this bra with its low cut cinch detailing in front—it allows the bra to be a little sexy, hence the name 'Wild Thing.'"
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