Best Sports Bras For Women: From Running to Yoga for ALL Body Types

Finding the best women's sports bras is like searching for the Holy Grail of workout gear. You want support, comfort, and durability—without feeling like you’re wearing a medieval torture device.

In this guide, we’ll break down what makes a sports bra truly great, and how to find the best one for your needs. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just starting yoga, we’ve got you covered (literally).

Why Is Finding the Right Supportive Sports Bra Important?

Without the right support, working out can feel more like a punishment than a pleasure. A supportive sports bra isn’t just a luxury; it’s a necessity.

It reduces breast movement, prevents pain, and helps you feel confident during exercise. Plus, wearing the wrong size can lead to discomfort, poor posture, and even long-term issues like back pain. So, yes, investing in good sports bras for women isn’t just smart—it’s self-care.

Top Benefits of Using Quality Materials in Women's Sports Bras

Not all women's sports bras are created equal. The best ones use quality materials that make a huge difference for your health. Here’s why:

• Moisture-wicking fabrics keep sweat at bay, preventing chafing and irritation.

• Breathable materials like mesh and bamboo reduce the risk of skin infections.

• Eco-friendly options (like organic cotton) are gentler on your skin and the environment.

Simply put, investing in a better quality sports bra for women means investing in your comfort and well-being.

Comparing Types of Women's Sports Bras

Not sure which type of women’s sports bras is right for you? Here’s a quick breakdown:

1. Compression Bras: These squeeze everything in, minimizing movement. Best for low to medium-impact activities like yoga or Pilates.

2. Encapsulation Bras: Each breast gets its own little house. Ideal for high-impact workouts like running, as they offer better support.

3. Adjustable Bras: Customizable straps and bands give you the flexibility to find the perfect fit.

4. Padded and Underwire Bras: For those seeking a little extra lift and shape while also getting the needed support.

How to Choose the Best Sports Bra for Your Workout Needs

Choosing the best sports bra for women boils down to a few key factors:

• Impact Level: Consider the type of exercise you’ll be doing. Running needs more support than stretching.

• Size and Fit: A snug fit is essential, but you shouldn’t feel like you’re being suffocated.

• Style Preferences: From racerback to front-closure, choose what feels best for you.

Our Criteria and Approach for Selecting the Best Women's Sports Bras:

• Comfort | Comfort is critical. When it comes to top-rated sports bras. We looked for soft, breathable fabrics that don’t dig in or chafe. After all, you want to focus on your workout, not on adjusting your bra every five minutes.

• Support | Support is the whole point of a sports bra for women. We prioritized bras that offer firm, reliable support for various activities—from running sports bras to low-impact options for lounging. Because nobody wants bounce when they’re trying to set a new personal best.

• Price | We believe you shouldn’t have to take out a loan to buy a great sports bra. We chose products that offer solid value for money. These bras are durable, well-made, and won’t fall apart after a few washes. Plus, we factored in ease of cleaning because who has time for hand-washing?

• Social Good | We love brands that give back, and many of the best women’s sports bras featured here do just that. From sustainable materials to ethical production practices, these companies are making a positive impact. So, when you buy, you can feel good knowing you’re supporting the environment and fair labor practices.

What to Look for When Buying a Sports Bra: Materials, Fillings, and Certifications

When shopping for women's sports bras, keep an eye on the following:

• Organic Cotton: Soft, breathable, and chemical-free. Great for sensitive skin.

• OEKO-TEX Certified: Ensures that no harmful substances are used in the fabric.

• Moisture-Wicking Fabrics: Look for proprietary blends like Dri-FIT or Climalite for maximum sweat management.

• Recycled Materials: Sustainable options like recycled polyester reduce environmental impact.

Top Picks: The Best Women's Sports Bras for Every Type of Activity

Type of Sports Bra | Crisscross Four-Way Top
Sport Bra Benefits | Socially Responsible, Recycled Plastic, 4 Way Stretch, Ultra Soft, Breathable, Quick Drying, Odor Resistant
Sports Bra Material | 84% rPET and 16% Spandex
Sports Bra Price | $68

This splash top from Wolven transitions from dry to wet, seamlessly. Use it as an everyday activewear top when you go for a quick run, or just wear it to yoga class for a fun, sassy fit. Either way, the Summit Crisscross Four-Way Top will add a sleek look to your workout, while supporting you and flattering your figure.

The Summit Crisscross Four-Way Top is available in for sizes, but the straps are adjustable to fit most body shapes, providing full coverage and optimal comfort in the shoulders. We chose the Summit Crisscross Four-Way Top for our Wolven review because this particular sports bra was designed in LA and sustainably made.  Wolven strives to frequently feature many top on trend styles for the active lifestyle. Presently, the company is Climate Neutral certified, and is a member of 1% for The Planet.

SHOP WOLVEN

Type of Sports Bra | Large Bust Size Sports Bra
Sport Bra Benefits | Give Back, Eco Friendly, Sustainable Materials, Vegan Verified, Women Owned
Sports Bra Material | Rayon, Elastane
Sports Bra Price | $55

Mary Young kick starts our list with this sustainably made Mayes Bamboo Bra in Gray. The bra offers comfort and style without any nagging fuss. Soft scoop front and back along with a low under arm allow freedom in movement. Double layers in the front offer extra coverage and confidence without adding any restrictions.

We frequently include a Mary Young review on our lists of the top eco-friendly, green products.  That’s because we’re pleased with how the company gives back to the global community.  Programs which support women, donations to food banks and the opportunity to donate Mary Young clothing to others are just a few of the reasons we love companies like Mary Young.

SHOP MARY YOUNG

Type of Sports Bra | Bralette Top
Sport Bra Benefits | Fair Trade, Sustainable, Vegan Verified, Women Owned, GOTS Certified
Sports Bra Material | Organic Cotton, Elastane
Sports Bra Price | $48

The Scoop Bralette Sports Bra by Knickey will be your favorite new workout apparel.  Moisture wicking fabric keeps you cool while the fabric stretches to cover your curves.  Side panels add a splash of color to the bralette top and give the illusion of a streamlined shape. 

This bralette top is available in four sizes, and women who have brought the bralette say the cut is true to size. You can feel confident wearing this bralette top every day, as it’s machine washable. Just wash, then air dry. We included a Knickey review on our list of the top fair trade and eco-friendly bras because we love their give back philosophy. 

SHOP KNICKEY

Type of Sports Bra | Double Scoop Bra
Sport Bra Benefits | Give Back, Socially Responsible, GOTS Certified, Fair Trade
Sports Bra Material | Organic Cotton, Elastane
Sports Bra Price | $25

Next on our list is our Pact Double Scoop Bra. We added this particular women’s underwear to the list because the bra is made with GOTS Certified organic cotton. As the name suggest, the bra is double scoop and double layered and naturally supportive with the padding and or wire. With a soft stretch fabric for everyday wear, this may be your favorite bra for your next run in the park or yoga session.

This Pact review also makes the list because of the company’s commitment to sustainable fashion. Pact’s apparel is proud to be recognized as a Fair Trade Certified as they continue to help the lives of others across the world under fair and safe working conditions.

SHOP PACT

Type of Sports Bra | High Neck Sports Bra
Sport Bra Benefits | Give Back, Eco Friendly, Socially Responsible, Fair Trade
Sports Bra Material | Polyester, Spandex, Nylon, Cotton
Sports Bra Price | $34

Sleek lines and bright accents make this a MPG Sport bralette top that will stand out in a crowd. Better yet, of all the reviews of eco-friendly tops we’ll review on this list, this top offers some of the best support.  The fabric used to craft the Authority High Neck Medium Support Bra is thick enough to keep you feeling confident, yet boasts CoolMax technology. CoolMax in the liner of the bust area adds breathability and keeps moisture away.  Mesh in the back of the sports bra offers even more cooling comfort.

We chose to include this MPG review for many reasons. First, the company partners with Bluesign on many of their product offerings. That means the company sources products and raw materials which leave a minimal environmental footprint.  Secondly, MPG Sport launched the Mondetta Charity Foundation.  As refugees themselves, the company founders wish to provide aid to children in high-risk nations.

SHOP MPG SPORT

Type of Sports Bra | Bamboo Sports Bra
Sport Bra Benefits | Sustainable Materials, Vegan Verified, Women Owned, Rayon
Sports Bra Material | Rayon, Elastane
Sports Bra Price | $55

There’s little more soft and breathable than a quality organic cotton. That’s why the next item on our list of the top eco friendly socially responsible sports bras is our Mary Young review. Each product within the Mary Young catalog features local yoga gear including Leggings, Joggers, Capris, Tank Tops and Sports Bras and more.  The sustainable activewear brand is designed to provide high quality made apparel at affordable prices.  

This Mayes Yoga Sports bra is ethically sourced and manufactured in the United States. You’ll love selecting from seven different colors, too.  From a simple black to a fun teal, there’s a pattern for every preference.  No matter your size or fitness level, you’ll feel comfortable in the coverage this sports bra offers.  The bra fits true to size, and is available in Extra Small to Extra Large.

SHOP MARY YOUNG

Type of Sports Bra | Cleaner Cotton Bralette
Sport Bra Benefits | Socially Responsible, Sustainable Materials, Made in USA, Vegan Verified, Women Owned, Certified B Corp
Sports Bra Material | Nylon, Lycra, Polyester, Elastane
Sports Bra Price | $72

California Cloth Foundry a sustainable women’s fashion company, based here in the United States produces women's apparel including activewear, shapewear, undergarments, bralettes and sports bras.  All products are made in the USA from fabrics that were sourced in the United States. 

We’ve reviewed California Cloth Foundry in the past, but for this California Cloth Foundry review we’d like to share the Cleaner Cotton Bralette.  You’ll feel as stunning as a siren when you wear this versatile bralette.  The bra is as the name suggests is perfect for your workout on land or sea.  Stretch in pilates or go for a walk on boardwalk, as this bralette is super comfortable.

SHOP CALIFORNIA CLOTH FOUNDRY

Type of Sports Bra | Wild Trails Sports Bra
Sport Bra Benefits | Recycled Materials, Fair Trade Certified, Give Back, Socially Responsible
Sports Bra Material | Recycled Polyester
Sports Bra Price | $65

From the moment we first saw this sports bra, we knew we had to have it.  If you’re looking for a 100% recycled, Fair Trade sewn top you can really move in, check out this Wild Trails Sports Bra from Patagonia.  Every stitch of this sports bra is made from recycled polyester.  That means you’re not only buying an adorable addition to your workout gear, but you’re also keeping clothes from the landfills.  What’s more is that with every purchase from Patagonia, the company will plant ten trees.

This racerback design is available in sizes from Extra Small to Extra Large, and each is hand-sewn in Sri Lanka. Be sure to take a look at the other green, sustainable products on the site.  There are too many to include in just one Patagonia review.

SHOP PATAGONIA

Type of Sports Bra | Adjustable Sports Bra
Sport Bra Benefits | Organic, Fair Trade, Socially Responsible, Sustainably Sourced
Sports Bra Material | 88% Polyester, 12% Elastane
Sports Bra Price | $20

We know you’ll like the lines of this Cotton On organic cotton reversible sports bra, and you’ll adore the versatility of the product.  Wear it right side out or inside out. Adjust the straps to fit your unique shape.  However you wear this bra, you’ll notice the difference in the way organic cotton feels.

We did a bit of research for this Cotton On review, and discovered that the company is doing great things for the planet.  Cotton On is an Australian company that has partnered with Better Cotton Initiative, a not for profit organization, promoting fair trade practices, improving social, environmental and economic issues in cotton-farming communities around the world. All products on the Cotton On website are ethically and sustainably sourced. 

SHOP COTTON ON

Type of Sports Bra | Yoga Crop Top
Sport Bra Benefits | Fair Trade, Soil Association Organic Textile Standard, Eco Friendly, Artisan Crafted
Sports Bra Material | Organic Cotton
Sports Bra Price | $28

Last on the list is our People Tree review. We’ve certainly mentioned People Tree elsewhere on Citrus Sleep, as the retailer is well-known for its commitment to the global community.  Products on People Tree are certified organic, fair trade, sustainably sourced and ethically crafted. Most are made by small-scale designers and craftsmen.

We chose to share this Yoga Crop Top because the fit is ideal for every body type.  Whether you’re a size 8 or a size 16, this lingerie yoga crop top will flatter your figure and allow you to move with confidence.  Pair with your favorite print leggings for a fun look.

SHOP PEOPLE TREE

Type of Sports Bra | Strappy Sports Bra
Sport Bra Benefits | Made in the USA, Eco-Friendly, Sustainable, Give Back
Sports Bra Material | Nylon, Spandex
Sports Bra Price | $46

If a little more coverage is what you need, this Evolve Fit Wear Onzie Pyramid Bra is a good choice for you to add to your lingerie collection. Available in navy blue, this sports bra is a bit higher cut than some others. The bottom hem, too, will provide a little more modesty, and won’t ride up as you stretch or do yoga.  The strappy detail in the back gives the bra a unique look, and you can be sure no one else in spin class will have your style! Available in two sizes, the Onzie will wick moisture as you move. There’s no more chafing, and you’ll feel cool, even as you sweat.

As we researched this Evolve review, we were pleased to learn that the company is doing great things for the global community. The company features brands which are eco-friendly, products that are consciously sourced and fabrics which are sustainable. This particular sports bra, like many others on the site, was made in the USA.

SHOP EVOLVE FIT WEAR

Type of Sports Bra | Underwired Sports Bra
Sport Bra Benefits | Give Back, Socially Responsible, Recycled
Sports Bra Material | Polyester, Spandex
Sports Bra Price | $75

This top from Organic Basics will make you look as sexy as you feel. The front of this top is a classic look; it’s moderately low cut, but provides support as you work out or stretch. The wide curvature wires, underbust band and double lining provide fantastic comfort for high impact support. The Reycled nylon and spandex blend used to craft this sports bra is cool and will wick away moisture as you move. We think you’ll also love the bold colors. The sports bra top is available in hot crimson, storm and nebula, and is available in 28E all the way to 38GG.

We fell in love with this activewear sports bra, and as we wrote this Organic Basics review we learned more about the company.  We’re pleased to tell you that Organic Basics continues to promote sustainable practices and by reducing their environmental footprint.

SHOP ORGANIC BASICS

Type of Sports Bra | Crop Sports Bra
Sport Bra Benefits | Socially Responsible, Eco-Friendly, Give Back, Made in the USA
Sports Bra Material | Polyester, Spandex
Sports Bra Price | $65

Next on our list of the top eco friendly, fair trade sports bras is our New Balance review. New Balance is an online retailer that works with small-scale distributors to offer curated activewear fashions and footwear.  Throughout the New Balance catalog, you’ll find socially conscious, fair trade, organic and made in the USA and clothing. 

We love the simple, elegant style of this leather-like Captivate Crop Sports Bra. Galaxy blue looks good against any skin tone, and the lingerie sports bra offers unexpectedly great support for medium impact workouts despite the lightweight design.  The front of the bra is slightly higher cut than others you’ll see in this review, but the detail in the back straps lends a feminine touch.  The sports bra is offered in extra small all the way too extra large  As with many items on New Balance, there are sometimes limited quantities available, so be sure to grab yours before they’re gone.

SHOP NEW BALANCE

Type of Sports Bra | Racerback Evolution Bra
Sport Bra Benefits | Give Back, Socially Responsible
Sports Bra Material | Nylon, Spandex
Sports Bra Price | $55

Next on our list is this undergarment women owned company, Knix. In fact, Knix is committed to the cause of bettering the world for women. The company donates a portion of its proceeds to Equal Means Equal, a non-partisan initiative to add a gender equality amendment to the Constitution.

Of course, we love Knix’s commitment to women’s causes. However, we chose to include this Knix review because we fell in love with the Racerback Evolution Bra. This bra is the perfect addition to your workout gear. Available in three sizes, this black piece is cut to fit just right, even as you move. The cross over detail on the back also serves to keep the bra in place, giving you confidence as you work out.

SHOP KNIX

Type of Sports Bra | Fixed Strap Sports Bra
Sport Bra Benefits | Give Back, Socially Responsible, Fair Trade
Sports Bra Material | Stretch
Sports Bra Price | $52

Next on the list of the top eco-friendly sports bras is our Vuori review. Specifically, we’d like to share with you this Interval Sports Bra. We think the classic and supportive top featuring a jersey-lined Vuori logo will pair well with your favorite workout shorts or yoga pants.

Vuori offers a huge range of apparel and workout gear, but we also love the commitment to innovative clothing production. Through their manufacturing process, Vuori works with ethically sourced and environmentally conscious suppliers. Lastly, you’ll not only feel good with this sports bra you will feel comfortable.

SHOP VUORI

Type of Sports Bra | Sports Bra
Sport Bra Benefits | Socially Responsible, Recycle, Give Back
Sports Bra Material | Polyester, Stretch
Sports Bra Price | $49

prAna is a company that celebrates beach life.  In that spirit, many of the offerings in the prAna catalog are airy, light and fun. The Costas Sports Bra is no exception.  The Chakara performance sports bra is accented by solid black design, creating an illusion that serves to give you a bit more modest coverage. Criss-cross straps add a bit of flair to this sports bra, and removable cups lend versatility.  As with most sports bras, you won’t want to tumble dry this piece. However, it’s machine washable, and won’t pill or stretch in the wash.

Why did we include a prAna review on our list?  There are a couple of reasons. First, the company’s products are Fair Trade certified and Bluesign approved. In fact, many of the women’s apparel line are created completely from recycled and recyclable materials.  This initiative just goes to prove the company’s love for the environment.  Secondly, prAna gives back and donates a portion of proceeds to companies like Outdoor Outreach and others. 

SHOP PRANA

FAQs About Sports Bras for Women: Answering Your Top Questions

1. How often should I replace my sports bra?
Replace your sports bras every 6-12 months, depending on how often you use them and how well you care for them.

2. What size sports bra should I buy?
Always refer to the brand’s size chart and consider getting fitted if you’re unsure. A well-fitted women’s sports bra should feel snug but not restrictive.

3. Can I wear a sports bra as an everyday bra?
Yes, many women find sports bras more comfortable for daily wear. Just be sure it provides the right level of support for your activities.

4. What’s the difference between compression and encapsulation sports bras?
Compression bras press the breasts against the chest, while encapsulation bras support each breast individually. Encapsulation is better for high-impact activities like running.

5. How do I wash my sports bras?
Use cold water, a gentle detergent, and a lingerie bag. Skip the dryer and let them air dry to maintain elasticity.

And there you have it—your ultimate guide to the best women’s sports bras for every fitness level.

Lisa Czachowski is a professional social blogger and has worked on several online publications including Citrus Sleep. Lisa is an experienced content writer and copyeditor. You will find many of her works throughout CitrusSleep.com that cover a wide array of subjects including sustainability, natural, sleep products, health, fashion and many more. She is passionate about what providing as much information as possible on products you bring in your home and what we wear.

Follow Lisa at Lisa Czachowski

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