If you’ve ever had the misfortune of going to a big sporting event like a marathon or a women’s inter-university basketball or volleyball game, or your first tennis tournament in your teens without bringing a proper sports bra, then we’re pretty sure you know how not having the support of one feels.
At the very least, you’ll sense the absence of or inadequate support in the chest area. You’ll also feel distracted and frustrated as you try to give your performance your all. In the end, you might still do well in spite of the discomfort. Or you could do so much worse than if, say, you had the right support in place.
This is why we consider sports bras to be just as essential – if not more so – as other fitness or athletic gear, like gym leggings, activewear shorts, shoes, etc. Whether you’re into yoga, circuit training, skating, football, cycling, running or some other sport, a sports bra is an indispensable part of your performance wardrobe.
In this post, we explore the various sports bra types to ultimately help you find the best type of sports bra designed to meet specific requirements.
By familiarising you with the different types of sports bra, it’s our hope that you’ll no longer be confronted with the question ‘What type of sports bra should I wear’ ever again.
Sports Bra Types [Quick Links]
Who would have thought there are so many types of sports bra to choose from… In this post you’ll get the lowdown on the benefits of each sports bra type so that you can make an informed decision on what’s right for you.
Click on the quick links to explore a specific type of sports bra.
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What Is a Sports Bra and What Is It Used For?
First, let’s answer the questions: What is a sports bra? What is a sports bra used for?
A sports bra is a type of brassiere that supports a woman’s breasts while she is exercising. Compared to conventional or typical bras, they are more durable and help reduce breast movement and discomfort significantly.
Many women use sports bras to alleviate the pain and discomfort resulting from breast movement during workouts. For example, there are sports bras for running, or ones specifically made for playing beach volleyball, yoga and other types of exercises. Sports bras with extra padding are also available for exercises that could cause trauma to the breasts.
Lisa Lindahl, Polly Palmer Smith, and Hinda Miller are credited for having invented the first-ever sports bra called the ‘jockbra’ (later renamed ‘jogbra’) in 1977.
What Are the Different Types of Sports Bras?
There are different types of sports bras grouped into specific categories.
If you’re ready to dive and go deep into the world of sports bras, here they are categorised based on their impact strength and support, style and features, and functionality.
Sports Bra Types by Impact Strength and Support
Below are the different types of sports bra support and impact strength categories:
- High-impact sports bra: A high-impact sports bra provides superior breast support for those involved in strenuous physical activities like dancing, aerobics, racquet sports and running.
- Medium-impact sports bra: This type of bra is designed to provide support for those who engage in moderate-level physical activities such as cycling, hiking and power walking.
- Low-impact sports bra: For people who practise yoga, Pilates, simple stretches, and slow movements, low-impact sports bras can provide adequate support.
As seen in the above, the main differences between high-support and medium-support sports bras are the impact strength and support they provide depending on the wearer’s activity level.
Different Sports Bra Styles and Features
Sports bra styles and features also vary, depending on the subcategory. A single sports bra can have one or more of the below listed features.
Zip-Up & Zip-Front Sports Bra
A zip-up or zip-front sports bra offers excellent support and a front zip for ease of use. Suitable for all activities, including the most strenuous activities. Some feature adjustable straps and built-in foam for added comfort.
Advantages of This Sports Bra Type:
- Easy to Put On and Take Off: One of the most apparent advantages is the ease of use. Traditional sports bras can sometimes be challenging to put on or remove, especially after a sweaty workout. With a zip-front design, wearers can easily zip and unzip without the struggle of pulling the bra over their heads.
- Adjustable Compression: Depending on the design, some zip-front sports bras allow wearers to adjust the level of compression. This means that an individual can choose a snugger fit for high-impact activities and a more relaxed fit for low-impact exercises or for daily wear, offering versatility.
- Stylish and Functional Design: Zip-front sports bras often feature a sleek and modern look, adding a touch of style to the wearer’s workout attire. Additionally, the zipper can sometimes act as a secure pocket for small essentials like keys or money, making them functional beyond just support.
It’s worth noting that while there are many advantages, users should ensure the zip mechanism is of high quality to avoid any discomfort or malfunctions during activities.
One-Shoulder Sports Bra
Stylishly feminine and comfortable, the one-shoulder sports bra is a lovely addition to your brassiere collection. It is highly recommended for low-impact physical activities like yoga, sunrise watching, relaxing or dancing.
Advantages of This Sports Bra Type:
Unique Aesthetic Appeal: One-shoulder sports bras stand out from the conventional designs, offering a trendy and fashionable look. This style can make a bold statement in workout attire, allowing wearers to express individuality and flair even during physical activities.
Reduced Tan Lines: For outdoor enthusiasts and those who exercise in the sun, a one-shoulder design can result in fewer and more unique tan lines as compared to traditional sports bras. This can be particularly beneficial for athletes or individuals who compete in outdoor events and want a more even tan.
Versatility in Movement: Depending on the design, one-shoulder sports bras can offer more freedom of movement for one arm and shoulder, which might be suitable for certain activities or sports that require asymmetrical arm movements.
While one-shoulder sports bras have their benefits, it’s essential for potential wearers to ensure that they provide adequate support and comfort for their specific activities and body type.
➜ Explore wide range of One-Shoulder Sports Bra
Racerback Sports Bra
The racerback is the most popular sports bra style. It features shoulder straps that form a Y-shape when they connect between the shoulder blades.
Advantages of This Sports Bra Type:
Enhanced Support and Stability: The design of the racerback pulls the straps toward the center of the back, distributing the weight of the bust more evenly and reducing the chances of the straps slipping off the shoulders. This ensures that the bra stays in place even during vigorous activities.
Increased Range of Motion: The racerback style allows for unrestricted arm and shoulder movement, making it ideal for a wide range of activities, from weightlifting to yoga. There’s less fabric around the shoulder blades, ensuring athletes and fitness enthusiasts experience no hindrance in their movements.
Better Posture and Weight Distribution: The unique design encourages wearers to pull their shoulders back slightly, which can promote a more upright posture. This can be especially beneficial during workouts, helping to reduce strain on the neck and upper back.
Racerback sports bras are versatile and can be suitable for both high-impact and low-impact exercises, given their blend of support and freedom of movement.
➜ Discover trendy Racerback Sports Bra
Strappy Sports Bra
Just like one-shoulder sports bras, these strappy ones are the epitome of gym wear class and glamour. Use them for low-impact exercises that don’t require sudden, intense movements.
Advantages of This Sports Bra Type:
Fashion-forward Design: Strappy sports bras often feature intricate patterns, multi-strap designs, and unique back details. This makes them a stylish choice for those wanting to add a touch of elegance and fashion to their workout attire or even wear them as a statement piece in layered outfits.
Customisable Support: Some strappy sports bras offer adjustable straps, allowing wearers to tailor the fit and support level to their liking. This can be particularly useful for those who need varying levels of support for different activities.
Optimal Ventilation: The strappy design can provide better breathability, especially in the back area. The reduced fabric coverage, coupled with the gaps between the straps, allows for better airflow, which can keep the wearer cooler during intense workouts or in warmer environments.
While strappy sports bras offer these benefits, it’s essential for potential wearers to ensure that they choose a design that provides the right balance of support and comfort for their specific needs and activities.
➜ Buy this Strappy Sports Bra
Crossover or Criss-Cross Sports Bra
The back of a crossover sports bra is shaped like a cross. They are popular because they look really nice when worn without a top on hot summer days and provide solid support, too.
Advantages of This Sports Bra Type:
Adaptive Support: The cross over design typically offers enhanced support as the overlapping fabric can distribute weight effectively, ensuring a secure fit. This design can often adjust to the wearer’s unique body shape, providing tailored support where it’s needed.
Enhanced Flexibility: The crossover straps allow for a greater range of motion, especially in the shoulder and upper back area. This design minimises restrictions, making it a good choice for activities that require extensive arm movements or stretches.
Elevated Style Appeal: The crisscross design gives these bras a distinct and stylish appearance, standing out from more traditional sports bra designs. It adds a touch of sophistication and can be worn as both a functional sports bra and a fashionable statement piece.
As with any sports bra style, it’s crucial for potential wearers of cross over sports bras to find a design that offers the right balance of support, comfort, and style for their specific activities and preferences.
➜ Buy this sexy Criss-Cross Sports Bra
Seamless Sports Bra
A seamless sports bra will delight you if it provides the right balance of support and utmost comfort.
The seamless sports bra is made on a seamless circular knitting device and finished after dyeing, cutting, sewing and other processes designed to weave a one-shape bra.
Advantages of This Sports Bra Type:
Reduced Irritation: Without seams, there’s a lower risk of chafing or skin irritation, especially during prolonged activities. This makes seamless sports bras particularly suitable for sensitive skin and long-duration workouts.
Smoother Appearance: Seamless designs often provide a sleek and smooth silhouette, making them less visible under tight-fitting workout tops or everyday wear. They can give a more polished and uninterrupted look, free from visible lines or bulges.
Enhanced Comfort: With no stitches or seams, these bras often feel softer and more adaptable to the body’s contours. This ensures a comfortable fit that moves naturally with the body, making them a popular choice for various activities, from yoga to running.
It’s essential to note that while seamless sports bras have these advantages, users should still ensure they offer adequate support for their specific needs and activities.
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Padded Sports Bra
The padded sports bra is cushioned to infuse a sexy yet modest appeal to your athletic ensemble. Elegant and wonderfully shaped, a padded sports bra has the ability to support you optimally and enhance your confidence.
Advantages of This Sports Bra Type:
Enhanced Shape and Modesty: The padding in these bras provides a smooth and defined shape to the bust, preventing any visible nipple outline, especially in colder environments or tight workout tops. This offers wearers an added layer of modesty and confidence during their activities.
Increased Support and Protection: Padding can offer additional support and cushioning, which is particularly beneficial for high-impact activities like running or jumping. It helps in reducing movement and provides protection against potential discomfort or injury.
Adjustable Volume: Some padded sports bras come with removable pads, allowing wearers to adjust the volume and fit based on their comfort and needs. This flexibility can cater to those who may have asymmetrical breasts or those who desire variable padding for different activities.
When opting for a padded sports bra, it’s essential for wearers to ensure that the padding is breathable and the bra still provides the necessary support for their specific activities.
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High-Neck Sports Bra
Fashionable and functional, high-neck sports bras are perfect for showing off your shoulders and arms. They come in a wide range of stylish options designed to complement your figure and provide adequate support whatever your favourite athletic pursuits.
Advantages of This Sports Bra Type:
Enhanced Coverage and Modesty: The high-neck design provides more coverage in the chest area, making wearers feel more secure and modest, especially during activities that involve bending forward or jumping. This design can also reduce potential discomfort from unwanted onlookers during workouts.
Reduced Movement and Bounce: The extended fabric coverage up to the neck can help in further stabilising the bust area, reducing vertical movement and bounce. This can be especially beneficial for those engaging in high-impact activities.
Fashion-Forward and Versatile Style: High-neck sports bras offer a unique and stylish look that can easily transition from the gym to everyday wear. They can be layered under jackets or worn as a standalone top, making them a versatile choice for those seeking both functionality and fashion in their athletic wear.
Like with all sports bras, when considering a high-neck style, it’s essential for wearers to ensure it provides the right level of support and comfort for their specific activities and body type.
➜ View High-Neck Sports Bra
Push-Up Sports Bra
These full-coverage sports bras offer the maximum support you need for both intense workouts and low-impact activities like ballet and yoga. Push-up sports bras usually feature wide bottom bands and straps to keep your breasts securely in place while also enhancing comfort.
Advantages of This Sports Bra Type:
Flattering Silhouette: Push-up sports bras are designed to lift and accentuate the bust, creating a more defined and voluminous silhouette. This can give wearers a boost of confidence and a desired aesthetic, both during workouts and in everyday settings.
Added Padding for Protection: The padding that provides the push-up effect can also act as an additional layer of cushioning, offering protection against potential impacts or discomfort during physical activities.
Versatility in Wardrobe Choices: With their ability to shape and lift, push-up sports bras can be paired with a wider variety of tops, from low-cut workout tanks to dresses, making them a versatile choice for those looking to transition from the gym to social settings without changing their bra.
However, when considering a push-up sports bra, it’s crucial for wearers to ensure that it offers adequate support for their specific activities, and the added volume doesn’t compromise the bra’s primary function of providing support during physical activities.
➜ Buy this Push-Up Sports Bra
Crop Top Sports Bra
Designed primarily for comfort and style, crop-top bras (aka crop tops, sports crops or crop-top sports bras) are more commonly underwire-free. They also do not feature adjustable straps and are pulled on over the head as they only feature a single band.
Generally lower impact, crop-top sports bras are garments you can wear confidently whilst taking a beach stroll or participating in a low-impact gym training session.
Advantages of This Sports Bra Type:
Extended Coverage and Style: Going beyond the traditional sports bra design, crop top sports bras offer additional coverage, making them suitable to be worn as standalone tops. This design is both functional for workouts and stylish for athleisure looks or casual outings.
Versatility in Activities: With their extended coverage, these bras are suitable for a range of activities, from yoga and pilates to dance and aerobic workouts. They provide the support of a sports bra while ensuring wearers feel covered and secure during movements.
Enhanced Support with a Wide Band: Many crop top sports bras come with a broader under-bust band. This feature often provides added support and can distribute weight more evenly, ensuring a snug fit and reducing potential strain on the shoulders.
As with any sports bra design, it’s essential for those considering crop top sports bras to ensure the style provides the appropriate level of support and comfort for their specific needs and activities.
➜ Shop Crop Top Sports Bras
Adjustable Sports Bra
The adjustable sports bra is a piece of garment that provides total support for women of all sizes and shapes. They are highly recommended for women with large breasts, as adjustable bras are cleverly designed to allow wearers to adjust them and achieve a custom fit. This ensures the wearer’s utmost comfort and that they are getting the support they need for any type of workout.
Advantages of This Sports Bra Type:
Customised Fit: With adjustable straps or bands, wearers can fine-tune the fit according to their body shape and comfort level. This ensures optimal support and reduces the risk of discomfort or strain from a too-tight or too-loose bra.
Versatility for Different Activities: The adjustability allows users to modify the support level based on the activity. For instance, they can opt for a snugger fit during high-impact exercises and a more relaxed setting for low-impact activities or casual wear.
Longer Lifespan and Value: Bodies change over time, whether due to weight fluctuations, muscle gain, or natural aging. Adjustable sports bras can adapt to these changes, potentially providing a longer lifespan and better value for money compared to fixed-size bras.
When opting for an adjustable sports bra, it’s essential to ensure that the adjustable components, such as buckles or Velcro, are of high quality and don’t cause discomfort or irritation during activities.
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Longline Sports Bra
For full-figured, curvy women, the longline sports bra is a godsend – with its superior coverage and torso-slimming and smoothing effect.
The fabric used in these bras extends below the bust line and way past the elastic band, ending just below the bust. It covers the entire upper torso and ends just a little above the waistline.
Advantages of This Sports Bra Type:
Additional Support and Stability: The extended band or fabric under the bust provides an extra layer of support. This can help distribute the weight of the bust more evenly across the torso and offer enhanced stability during workouts.
Versatile Styling: The longer length often allows these bras to be worn as standalone tops, blending the line between sports bras and crop tops. This design is perfect for layered athleisure looks, yoga sessions, or even casual outings.
Increased Comfort: The longline design can provide a smoother transition from the bra to the body, preventing any digging or rolling that can sometimes occur with shorter bands. It can also offer added coverage and warmth during cooler workouts.
It’s essential for potential wearers of longline sports bras to ensure they choose a design that offers breathability, especially given the increased fabric, and that it provides the right level of support for their specific activities.
➜ Find the latest Longline Sports Bra
Sports Bra Types by Functionality and Use Case
Another way of classifying sports bra types is by checking their functionality and use case.
Compression Sports Bra
So, what is a compression sports bra? When your primary concern is your breasts bouncing as you move, a compression sports bra is key. This type of bra can ably reduce unwanted movement, so you can focus on getting ready for your workout session and training proper.
Advantages of This Sports Bra Type:
Minimised Bounce: Compression bras effectively reduce vertical movement, which is particularly beneficial for high-impact activities such as running, jumping, or aerobics. This limits discomfort and potential strain on the breast tissue.
Uniform Support: By evenly distributing pressure across the breasts, compression bras offer consistent support without the need for individual cups. This ensures a snug fit that’s particularly effective for medium to smaller bust sizes.
Streamlined Design: Without the need for molded cups, underwires, or excessive padding, compression sports bras often feature a more straightforward design. This simplicity can enhance comfort, increase breathability, and reduce potential areas of chafing or irritation.
It’s worth noting that while compression sports bras are excellent for many activities and bust sizes, those with larger busts may also benefit from encapsulation styles or a combination of both compression and encapsulation for optimal support.
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Maternity Sports Bra
Maternity sports bras are enhanced versions of conventional sports bras. These are meant to support your developing breasts comfortably throughout pregnancy whilst you continue working out. They feature wider straps, a soft cotton lining for added comfort, and extra hooks and eyes on the band to keep the bra firmly in place.
Advantages of This Sports Bra Type:
Adaptable Support: As a woman’s body changes during pregnancy and postpartum, maternity sports bras provide the needed flexibility and adjustability. They are designed to offer enhanced support for the increasing breast size and tenderness that many women experience during this period.
Nursing Convenience: Many maternity sports bras come with easy-access features for breastfeeding, such as drop-down cups or front zippers. This makes it simpler for nursing mothers to feed their babies without having to remove or readjust their bra entirely.
Comfort and Breathability: Recognising the heightened sensitivity and potential for swelling during pregnancy and postpartum, maternity sports bras often feature soft, stretchable, and breathable fabrics. This ensures comfort during physical activity and reduces the risk of irritation or overheating.
For expecting and new mothers who wish to remain active, it’s crucial to opt for maternity sports bras that cater to their specific needs, ensuring both safety and comfort during workouts.
➜ Check out these Maternity Sports Bras
Swim Sports Bra
Swim sports bras are a hardworking top that do double duty as a swimming top and sports bra at the same time. Sports bra-type swim tops are waterproof and are great for playing Frisbee at the beach and, of course, swimming.
Advantages of This Sports Bra Type:
Water-Resistant Materials: Swim sports bras are made from fabrics that resist the damaging effects of chlorine, saltwater, and UV rays. These materials are quick-drying, ensuring comfort both in and out of the water, and maintaining their shape and elasticity over time.
Secure Fit for Active Water Sports: Whether it’s for paddleboarding, surfing, or swimming laps, swim sports bras are designed to provide a snug fit, ensuring that they stay in place during rigorous aquatic activities, reducing distractions and potential wardrobe malfunctions.
Versatile Styling: Swim sports bras often feature stylish designs that can double as bikini tops or be paired with other swimwear bottoms. This versatility makes them ideal for those who transition between active water sports and more relaxed beach or poolside lounging.
When selecting a swim sports bra, it’s essential to ensure that it offers the right balance of support, coverage, and comfort for the intended aquatic activities.
➜ Shop Swimwear
Plus-Size Sports Bra
Plus-size sports bras are available in a wide selection of styles and sizes to fit all body types, although as a general rule, any bra size 16 and up is technically plus size. Plus-size sports bra band sizes are usually made up to size 26.
Advantages of This Sports Bra Type:
Tailored Support: Designed specifically for larger busts and body sizes, plus size sports bras provide enhanced support, often incorporating features like wider straps, reinforced bands, and additional hook-and-eye closures to distribute weight and reduce strain.
Comfortable Fit: Recognising the unique challenges faced by those with fuller figures, these bras often feature design elements like padded straps, moisture-wicking fabrics, and side panels to reduce chafing, ensuring comfort during extended physical activity.
Boosted Confidence: With designs that offer full coverage and a secure fit, plus size sports bras give wearers the confidence to engage in any activity without concerns about inadequate support or potential wardrobe malfunctions.
When shopping for a plus size sports bra, it’s essential to find one that aligns with specific needs, activity levels, and personal preferences to ensure maximum comfort and support.
➜ Shop Plus Size Sports Bra
Sports Bra for Big Busts
Women with exceptionally large breasts – typically D cups and above – are familiar with the difficulties of finding a sports bra that’s comfortable and fits properly.
To get the perfect sports bra for big busts, look for styles that feature moulded, encapsulated, contoured, or underwire cups, and maximum backing for optimum coverage and support. With the best type of sports bra for large breasts, you can say goodbye to dancing boobs forever.
Advantages of This Sports Bra Type:
Enhanced Support: These sports bras are crafted with reinforced materials, wider bands, and often a combination of both compression and encapsulation designs. This ensures the breasts are well-supported, reducing movement and potential strain during high-impact activities.
Comfort-driven Features: Recognising the potential for increased weight and movement associated with a larger bust, these bras often incorporate features like wider, padded straps to distribute weight evenly, reducing pressure points and discomfort. Additionally, they might employ breathable panels or moisture-wicking fabrics to manage sweat and ensure comfort during prolonged exercise.
Customised Fit: Many sports bras for larger busts come with adjustable straps and bands, allowing for a more tailored fit. This adaptability ensures that the bra provides optimal support as the body changes, whether due to weight fluctuations or other factors.
When selecting a sports bra for big busts, it’s crucial to try various styles and brands to determine the most comfortable and supportive option for specific needs and activities.
➜ Discover new Sports Bras for Big Busts
How to Choose the Right Sports Bra for You
When shopping for sports bras, there are certain criteria you need to keep in mind to ensure you find ones that match your physical requirements:
- Type of exercise or physical activity: Before you start looking for sports bras in earnest, consider the kind of exercise or physical activity you’ll be engaging in – whether it’s low-, medium- or high-impact as it will determine the amount of breast support you need.
- Support: To prevent breast pain and discomfort, and ensure you enjoy working out, find a bra offering just the right amount of support. If you need maximum support, look for features like wide straps, full frontal coverage, etc.
- Fit: Your sports bra should fit your bust size as an uncomfortable one will prevent you from enjoying your workout, and cause chafing and back pain. It should be snug without being restrictive, and be loose enough whilst still providing adequate support. To get the right size every time, make sure you know your measurements and compare them against in-house sizing charts.
- Material: Although cotton bras are breathable and comfortable, they are not suitable as sportswear. Sports bras made with spandex and other performance fabrics ensure you get a snug-fitting, flexible garment that’ll keep you comfortable and well supported.
- Comfort: A sports bra should ideally be slightly tighter than a regular bra, but not so tight that it cuts into your skin or restricts your breathing. In general, you should be comfortable wearing your sports bra whilst exercising and there shouldn’t be any discomfort or pain.
Sports Bra Types FAQs
What’s the difference between a sports bra and normal bra?
A conventional or normal bra is designed to provide breast support for everyday activities, whilst a sports bra is meant to keep the breasts in place or minimise their movement whilst the wearer is exercising or engaging in sport.
While the difference between a typical bra and sports bra may not seem that great, not wearing a sports bra during a fitness or athletic event can affect your performance.
What’s the difference between a bralette and sports bra?
Padding is one of the key features that differentiates a sports bra from a bralette. Sports bras contain more padding than bralettes as they are expected to provide adequate support when you’re exercising. Sports bras also provide more covering and support than bralettes.
Bralettes, meanwhile, are meant to be worn for everyday wear. Sports bras are designed to be worn for exercise and sports. Sports bras aren’t usually worn casually because of their material and design. Bralettes, on the other hand, are meant to be worn on a daily basis or to a casual affair like a party.
What’s the difference between a sports bra and a crop top?
Just like a bralette, a crop top can be worn as part of your streetwear getup although you can also wear one to your gym sessions. On the other hand, a sports bra provides superior breast support but usually isn’t worn outside the gym or studio – except if what you’re wearing is a running or swim sports bra.
Which type of sports bra is best for running?
Whether you typically go for long or short runs, the best running sports bras for you should provide optimum coverage, be super supportive (meaning zero bounce), comfortable, and sweat wicking.
Your sports bra should stay in place and minimise or totally eliminate movement in the breast area to prevent trauma or injury and allow you to focus on training.
What type of sports bra is best for gym sessions?
Depending on your gym activities, you can go for sports bras providing low-, medium- or high-impact support. Make sure it can wick away perspiration so you stay dry and comfortable as you work out.
