The Best Sports Bra for Running

I think we’ve all been in this place. The one where you have your “go to” product that the brand decides to stop making. Rude! I’ve always been a Brooks sports bra wearer, but their recent shift in product design just wasn’t cutting it for me. After trying many of their new bras, I decided to embark on a quest for a new sports bra for running that could keep up with me!

I officially tested out the five bras below but I looked at many many more that just did not meet my criteria. I think it’s important to know where I’m coming from here, because there are SO MANY options depending on your body and preferences, so here we go.

My Running Sports Bra Criteria

• Must be available in the D+ range
• Must have adjustable straps
• Must be easy to put on. No pulling overhead or complicated back clasp situations
• Must be high impact

Under Armour – Women’s UA Infinity High Sports Bra

Pros: Fashionable, nice fabric, decent support, comfortable straps

Cons: Difficult to put on

Price Point: Moderate

I really like a lot about this bra. I love the two tone heather and black design. The straps are comfortable, and the support is pretty good. Things did move around a little, but those with a smaller frame may really like this bra. However, I just can’t work up a sweat and spend 5+ minutes getting into my bra. It’s a deal breaker for me. I know some people don’t struggle with clasping behind their backs but I am not that coordinated. 🙂

Bottom Line: I think this is a fine running bra, and may even be perfect for some. I can’t get past the effort to put on, so it’s not for me.

Athleta – Advance Sprint Bra

Pros: Supportive, easy to put on, no chafe

Cons: Adjustable straps are in back, so they may need adjusting before putting on

Price Point: High

I really like this bra. The adjustable straps being in the back was not much of a deterrent to me, once you find “the spot” you’re good to go. I found this to have excellent support for running and did not feel any chafe at all. Bonus is that Athleta has a great return policy. You can give it a workout and try before you decide. Awesome!

Bottom Line: This will be a keeper in my running sports bra rotation. See more detail about the Athleta Advance Sprint Bra.

Wacoal – Sport Wire Free Bra

Pros: Easy to put on, breathable fabric

Cons: Lack of support

Price Point: High

I found this bra to be very thin, and the least supportive of those I tried. The available colors are also super boring, which is not the point at all, but a factor for some nonetheless. 🙂 Reviews seem to be really favorable, but mainly for gym workouts, cycling, and yoga. We know runners need a whole other level of support.

Bottom Line: I did not find this bra to have enough support for running.

SheFit – Ultimate Sports Bra

Pros: Great support, easy to put on, no chafe

Cons: Padded inserts

Price Point: High

I’d read so many raves I simply had to try this bra and I. LOVE. IT. I used the term “industrial” to describe it to friends and I was definitely ready for battle wearing this. The girls weren’t going anywhere. I also found it super easy to put on, despite it’s intimidating appearance. The adjustable straps and back strap allow for adjustments in all the right places. The only “con” if I have to mention one is the pads, as they need some adjustment after washing, but it’s a small price to pay for the support offered. I’ve given it the half marathon test and zero chafe.

Bottom Line: I LOVE this bra. It passed all my run tests and you should check out the SheFit Ultimate Sports Bra now.

Lululemon – Swift Speed Bra High Support

Pros: Gorgeous color, nice fabric

Cons: Difficult adjustable straps, stiff back strap, lack of support

Price Point: Very High

The adjustable straps are hooks, rather than velcro, which I found difficult to move around. Once I did manage to adjust them, it left me with an awkward “tab” of fabric resting behind the cup, sure to chafe. The back strap was stiff which may soften over time, but also left me with a chafe-y vibe. Customer reviews also mention that the straps stretch out rather quickly.

Bottom Line: I did not find this bra to have enough to support for running and prone to chafe.

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