The Best Running Sports Bras of 2025

At Running Warehouse, we understand that the right sports bra can make or break your run. As a trusted leader in the running industry, we help runners of all levels find the gear they need to perform their best.

Our team of experienced runners and product testers have tried and tested countless sports bras to find the best options out there. Whether you're chasing a PR or just a little extra comfort, this guide is here to help you find your perfect match.

Brooks Crossback Bra 2.0

The Brooks Crossback 2.0 reigns supreme as a bestseller and Running Warehouse staff favorite. Finding the perfect intersection between fashion and function, its cross-back design lifts and supports each breast for a feminine silhouette. The easy pullover design never digs in or feels constrictive.

Brooks Scoopback 2.0 Sports Bra

The Brooks Scoopback 2.0 Sports Bra is perfect for those with larger breasts who are looking for more support. With a clean, streamlined aesthetic, this sports bra gives you the support you need without having to compromise on the look. Its innovative design combines high-performance materials with a sleek silhouette, offering both comfort and durability.

Nike Swoosh Medium-Support Padded Bra

The Nike Dri-FIT Swoosh Medium-Support Padded Bra is a classic racerback bra that provides compression-led support. Its comfortable straps and racerback design allow for freedom of movement and ensure a secure fit. The bra's soft elastic band offers stay-put support, and Nike's Dri-FIT technology will keep you dry as you work up a sweat.

rabbit Strappy Pocket Bra

The rabbit Strappy Pocket Bra provides support that is ideal for smaller breasts and has removable padding. This bra features super lightweight odor-resistant fabric and thin straps with a lower scoop neckline for airflow. The racerback features a phone pocket for added convenience.

Brooks 3 Pocket Bra

The Brooks 3 Pocket Bra provides optimal coverage and compression for a distraction-free workout. The secure high-neck design avoids any spillage during active movement. And, as the name suggests, the 3 Pocket Bra offers storage space with two small side mesh pockets and a phone pocket on the back.

Our team of runners tests each bra during real runs, ranging from easy jogs to high-intensity intervals. These testers include a diverse group of runners with various body types and running styles.

During testing, we evaluate key features like support, comfort, adjustability, breathability, and even how well it holds up after multiple washes. To keep our information up to date, we update our choices throughout the year based on current testing and available styles.

Sports bras come in a variety of styles, each with different levels of support, fit, and versatility. Your bust size will determine which style best suits your needs.

• Racerback: "Y" shape in the back and allows for more mobility and freedom of movement. This style is ideal for smaller busts and prevents straps from slipping during high-intensity activities.

• Cross-back: Straps crisscross along the back and allow for an increased range of motion. This style offers more support while also preventing the straps from slipping.

• Scoopback : Similar to a traditional bra with straps over the shoulders. Women with larger bust sizes generally find this style more supportive and easier to wear.

Padding options affect both support and coverage. Here are common padding options:

• Removable cups provide the option to add or remove a thinly padded cup. This allows for the choice of added protection, modesty, and support when needed.

• Built-in cups, or molded cups, are designed to complement the natural shape of the breast. These cups separate and divide each breast, providing a traditional, contoured silhouette and targeted support.

• Non-padded cups are featured in classic compression bras that press the breasts against the chest and do not offer any padding.

Strap styles, back closures, and added features can make all the difference in achieving the perfect fit and comfort for your run.

• Convertible backs: Bras with straps that can connect in the back to change the bra from a scoop back to a cross-back design. This is perfect for an adjustable 2-in-1 style.

• Rear clasp: Bras with a hook-and-key band at the back of the bra, allowing for a customized and supportive running fit.

• Front zipper: Sport bras that zip in the front, allow for more support without having to pull the bra over your head.

• Phone pockets: Pockets are often placed along the back or side of the bra. These pocket bras offer the convenience of going hands-free on your run.

The band is the bottom of the bra that sits underneath your breasts. You’ll need a soft tape measure to find your band size and cup size.

The most accurate way to measure your band size is above the bust, just below the armpits. This may seem a bit counterintuitive, but measuring below the bust can lead to incorrect sizing for certain ribcage shapes.

To find your cup size, measure the fullest part of the bust. Make sure that the measuring tape is kept level and is not too tight. Round this measurement up to the closest inch and subtract the band size you measured in the first step. Use this number to find your cup size using the chart below:

Note: Brands may size their bras differently. You may be different sizes for various brands. Be sure to check each brand's sizing chart.

The level of support you need depends on the intensity of your workout and your cup size. Running is considered a high-impact sport, which means that it involves jumping and vigorous movement that requires a more supportive sports bra. Lower-impact sports bras are often used for lower-impact activities, such as yoga or walking. However, a lower-impact sports bra may be more comfortable for running for smaller busts sizes.

• High-impact support bras limit excess movement and provide maximum support and protection. They have thicker straps and bottom band, which is ideal for larger breasts or if you prefer to have minimal bounce.

• Medium-impact support is suitable for most runners who don't want a highly compressive fit. They offer a moderate level of support and modest coverage.

• Low-impact support offers minimal compression and is ideal for runners with smaller busts, those seeking a comfortable option, or for loungewear.

Whether you’re gearing up for a high-impact workout or heading out for a quick jog, finding the right sports bra can make all the difference. You should feel confident, comfortable, and supported in your bra—because you deserve to feel good while you move. At the end of the day, the best running sports bra is the one that feels the best for you. Happy running!