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The best sports bras for large busts? I've found 8 of them, tried and tested in 2026

The best sports bras for large busts are supportive and comfortable. Say goodbye to wearing one sports bra over another!

Some of the best bras for bigger busts from Panache, Shock Absorber and M&S
(Image credit: Future / Panache / Shock Absorber / M&S)

If you're looking for one of the best sports bras for large busts, you'll know the struggle of finding one that fits, offers decent support, is comfortable and looks good. But I can assure you, after years of testing as a 34G, I've found some that tick all those boxes.

While many sportswear brands have become more inclusive in recent years and have thankfully expanded their size range, sports bras seem to get overlooked. Cup sizes often stop at an E, and designs that do accommodate larger sizes are often pretty uninspiring. Trust me, I know how frustrating it is to browse the aisles (online and off) of the biggest sports bra brands, only to leave empty-handed and frustrated.

The quick list

The best sports bras for large busts

Shock Absorber D+ sports bra

(Image credit: Shock Absorber)

The best sports bra for large busts overall

1. Shock Absorber D+ Max Sports Bra

Best sports bra for large busts overall

Specifications

Support: High
Size range: DD - H
Clasp system: Triple clasp, single band
Materials: 49% Polyamide, 46% Polyester, 5% Elastane

Reasons to buy

+
Great support for all activities 
+
Fully adjustable 
+
Hard-wearing
+
Available from a range of retailers 

Reasons to avoid

-
Limited colour options

From running to strength training, the Shock Absorber D+ Max Support Bra is my go-to. So much so, I have one in almost every available colour, with the chic mauve in my basket as we speak. It's a full-coverage option with contoured encapsulation and smooth, blanket-like support across the chest, which not only offers more support but helps avoid the dreaded mono-boob look that can come with traditional compression bras. The thick shoulder straps are adjustable, and the robust triple hook clasp on the back keeps everything in place.

This is also one of the best high-impact sports bras, so I'd recommend this bra for heavier workouts like running, jogging, HIIT or where you're jumping around a lot. The blend of polymide, polyester, and minimal elastane means this bra feels more rigid than other options, but I walk through every session feeling secure and ready for every session.

Perhaps thanks to the lack of stretch, it's also the most durable bra on this list. I bought my first one seven years ago, and I still have it today. While it's stretched in places and the elastic has come out of the back strap somewhat, it's still supportive enough to take me through gym workouts. So, you can imagine the industrial support it offers when new.

Runderwear Power Sports Bra

(Image credit: Runderwear)

The best running sports bra for large busts

2. Runderwear Power Running Bra

Best running sports bra for large busts

Specifications

Support: High
Size range: 30D - 38GG, 40G, 42F
Clasp system: Double and triple hook, two bands
Materials: 76% recycled polyamide, 24% recycled elastane

Reasons to buy

+
Very supportive
+
Padding prevents chafing 
+
Moisture-wicking materials
+
Feels comfortable over many hours

Reasons to avoid

-
Double band makes it harder to get on/off

It's hard to find a sports bra more supportive than the Shock Absorber D+, but the Runderwear Power Running Bra makes a great attempt. Thanks to its adjustable straps, double backband, and seven closures, you feel seriously strapped in and supported. All without scrimping on comfort, with more elastane in the materials than other options.

What I really loved it for, though, is how great it is for runners. Whether you're learning how to start running as a beginner or doing a marathon for the first time, this padded, combination bra is a savvy investment.

The high-coverage neckline and thick underband minimise bounce from both the top and the bottom of the bra, keeping your chest in place throughout the workout. This design and the padding on the Runderwear Power Running Bra prevent chafing, which is especially beneficial for longer runs and for those who like to wear a running vest.

The only issue I've had with this bra is that it can be a little fiddly to put on and take off, which is down to the double band with double and triple hooks at the back. But this is really a necessary evil, as it's these very design features that make the bra supremely supportive. In my mind, spending a little longer putting it on and taking it off is a small compromise that's well worth making.

Pour Moi Energy Strive Sports Bra - animal print

(Image credit: Pour Moi)

The most comfortable sports bra for large busts

3. Pour Moi Energy Strive Non Wired Full Cup Sports Bra

Most comfortable sports bra for large busts

Specifications

Support : Medium
Size range: DD - G
Clasp system: Triple hook clasp, single band
Materials: 81% nylon, 19% elastane

Reasons to buy

+
Super soft material
+
Very breathable
+
Comfortable to wear over many hours
+
Second-skin feel when sweaty
+
Impressive size range

Reasons to avoid

-
Not suitable for high-impact exercise

If you're doing a full-body Pilates workout or yoga every day, then you'll want a sports bra that's going to be comfortable enough to allow you to flow with ease. However, anyone with a larger bust will know that a lot of the flimsy yoga bras just won't cut it. That's where the Pour Moi Energy Strive bra comes in. As a compression bra without encapsulation, it offers more freedom of movement during gentler workouts, while still providing enough support to keep you comfortable.

Being a compression sports bra, the Pour Moi Energy Strive sports bra offers support by holding breasts tight to the chest. I found the style ideal for gentler workouts like weightlifting, Yoga and Pilates at home, but when I gave it a go on the treadmill, I had to give up a few kilometres in as I felt my boobs bouncing more than I'd like and nipple chafing started to kick in. So, I'd advise choosing another bra on this list for high-impact workouts.

That said, it's one of the most breathable sports bras I've ever worn, thanks to a thin layer that sits between the outer layer and the chest, and it's one of the most versatile. The shoulder straps can be worn either as a double-strap system like a normal bra or as a racerback with a J-hook attachment, and I found it easy to switch between them, making this bra a versatile option for many workout types.

M&S Goodmove ultimate support bra

(Image credit: M&S)

The best sports bra for larger busts with zip front

4. M&S GoodMove Ultimate Support Sports Bra

Best zip-front sports bra for large busts

Specifications

Support : Medium
Size range: A - GG
Clasp system: Front zip
Materials: 74% polyamide, 26% elastane

Reasons to buy

+
Front-zip makes it easy to get on/off
+
Very comfortable
+
Raceback design for added support
+
More budget-friendly than others

Reasons to avoid

-
Straps are not adjustable

I'm going to be honest - I've never been too keen on a front-zip sports bra. The fear of the zip coming undone when I'm at the top of a shoulder press at the gym is the stuff of nightmares. However, this bra changed that for me. The GoodMove Ultimate sports bra is one of my new favourites and comes from M&S, one of the best British sportswear brands. I have it in constant rotation for any medium-intensity exercise I do - like going to the gym, cycling, or hiking.

The front-zip closure is easy to manipulate, so getting the bra on and off is easy, which is a real plus after a sweaty workout. I've found I also don't have the same struggle getting my arm up behind my back, as I do with some other sports bras, making it a great option for those with limited hand, wrist, shoulder, or back dexterity. What helps me feel secure in this bra is the little hook on the inside of the bra, which holds the two parts of the bra together alongside the zip for extra support. I can do my shoulder press movements without fear in this.

It's a very supportive racerback-style design that I've found helps to hold me in and sit and stand up straighter, which no doubt helps during my strength training workouts.

My only gripe with this bra is that the shoulder straps are not adjustable - you get what you're given. I don't find this too much of an issue as I find the bra fits true to size, but I'd suggest trying it on first before buying - or ordering in a couple of different sizes and sending some back - to make sure you've got the support you need.

This bra was also redesigned in 2025, as the previous iteration had a thicker band and more vibrant colourways. In contrast, the available colours are all now slightly softer pastel tones. While we like the newer version of the Ultimate Support bra, anyone who was loyal to the old design might be disappointed.

Shock Absorber Multi Active Sports Bra

(Image credit: Shock Absorber)

The best low impact sports bra for large busts

5. Shock Absorber Active Multi Sport Bra

Best low-impact sports bra for large busts

Specifications

Support: Low
Size range: D - HH
Clasp system: Double hook clasp, double band
Materials: 5% elastane, 59% polyester, 36% polyamide

Reasons to buy

+
Very comfortable
+
Sweat-wicking
+
Barely-there feel once sweaty
+
Flattering fit despite compression design

Reasons to avoid

-
Not supportive for high-intensity

While Shock Absorber markets the Active Multi Sports Bra as a medium to higher-intensity support option, I've found that not to be the case even when the bra is new. However, it's a perfect medium to low-intensity option - ideal for yoga workouts, Pilates, strength training at home, and even cycling and hiking.

The double band on the racerback and the compression of the material on the front offer plenty of support for these workouts while offering a minimal, flattering shape to the entire bust when worn under a T-shirt or vest top. The back band has a double clasp for support, and the shoulder straps are thicker around the top to prevent chafing and pressing on the shoulders, but both are thinner than other designs. This, I have found, allows for a wider range of motion, though, so moving in this bra during a gym workout, for instance, feels natural and unrestricted.

In terms of breathability, the Shock Absorber Multi Active Sports Bra is one of the best on the list - much like the Pour Moi Energy Strive. It's made from high-performance fabrics, and two mesh panels on either side of your boobs prevent your chest from getting too warm. If I were heading off to a hot country and planning a workout, I'd sacrifice the higher level of support for the great sweat-wicking capabilities of this sports bra.

When choosing a size, I found that my regular size was perfect, but the brand warns, "This style can come up small. We find it best to try a band size up from your normal size. This means if you normally wear a 34D, we recommend trying a 36D."

Panache Non-Wired Sports Bra

(Image credit: Panache)

The best high-impact sports bra for large busts

6. Panache Sport Non Wired Sports Bra

Best high-impact sports bra for large busts

Specifications

Support: High
Size range: D - J
Clasp system: Triple hook clasp, single band
Materials: 42% polyester, 41% polyamide, 16% lycra, 1% elastane

Reasons to buy

+
Great for high-intensity activity 
+
Adjustable shoulder straps
+
Comfortable
+
Impressive size range
+
Variety of colours

Reasons to avoid

-
Brand recommends hand washing only

A sports bra from Panache is a must-have for anyone with a larger chest, given that all their designs are encapsulating, meaning they hold the busts individually for support, with many (including this one) offering compression over the top. This is my top pick for a bra to see you through any higher-intensity workout, whether that's a weightlifting session, a boxing class, or a power walking session.

It has a single layer of compression with contoured encapsulation cups and no underwire - three design elements that signal to me it's a comfortable bra to wear for at least a few hours. On testing, I was correct. When sweaty, this bra has a barely-there, second-skin feel that makes it very comfortable to wear even during intense workouts. The thick underband and triple closure on the backband support from below, while the V-neck offers full coverage that supports from the top at the front. The J-hook on the back of the bra is a good supportive addition, much like in other bras on this list.

I wouldn't say it's the best choice for running for similar reasons to the Shock Absorber D+ sports bra - it can chafe over time if you're wearing it with a running vest or similar, but for all kinds of other high-intensity activities, it's a real winner.

I also love this bra because it comes in so many exciting colours - a rarity in the best sports bras for large busts. From muted beige and dusky pinks to bold floral and leopard print designs, there's something for everyone, regardless of style.

Something to be aware of with this bra, however, is that the brand recommends hand washing only. While I find that any sports bra can be put in the washing machine if you know how to wash gym clothes properly, it's always better to be safe than sorry.

MAARE Solidarity Sports Bra

(Image credit: MAARE)

The best luxury sports bra for large busts

7. MAARE Solidarity High-Impact Sports Bra

Best luxury sports bra for large busts

Specifications

Support: High
Size range: C - H
Clasp system: Tripe hook clasp, single band
Materials: 85% polyamide, 15% elastane

Reasons to buy

+
Unique style of support 
+
Breathable 
+
Adjustable shoulder straps
+
Multiple colour options available
+
Brand offers 12-month guarantee  

Reasons to avoid

-
Online fitting recommended before purchasing
-
More expensive than others 

The MAARE Solidarity High-Impact Sports Bra is the most expensive sports bra on our list by at least £20 - but it made the cut for good reason. If you're looking for an all-singing-all-dancing bra that offers supreme, versatile support with ensured breathability and comfort all-workout-long, then this is a great option.

Unlike other sports bras on this list that (successfully) use a full coverage design to offer support along the top of the busts, the MAARE Solidarity Bra has a curved panel on the inside of the bra over the top of the busts that prevents any upward bounce, which is superior as it distributes the pressure evenly across the entire chest rather than just the front. While the design had the chance to create a mono-boob look on a whole new level on first appearances, countoured panels prevent this and offer a flattering shape at the front and sides instead.

This isn't a bra to buy on a whim, though. You can 'quick buy' and measure your size against the size guide, but as the style is so different to others on the market, you're advised to follow up your interest with an online bra fitting before buying.

Freya Women's Dynamic Wireless Sports Bra

(Image credit: Freya)

The best sports bra for large busts on Amazon

8. Freya Dynamic Wireless Sports Bra

Best sports bra for larger busts to buy on Amazon

Specifications

Support: Medium to high
Size range: D - H
Clasp system: 4 hooks, one band
Materials: 71% polyamide, 24% polyester, 5% elastane

Reasons to buy

+
Available with next-day delivery
+
Adjustable straps
+
Comfortable
+
Variety of size options

Reasons to avoid

-
More supportive options available

If you're looking for one of the best sports bras for larger busts on a time limit, the Freya Dynamic Wireless Sports Bra is a good bet with Amazon Prime Delivery. It's also available in several sizes - the biggest selection I've seen - in a range of colours so you're bound to find one you like, even if the neon options are a little garish. It's fair to say that Amazon is where to buy a sports bra if you want a wide choice at reasonable prices with fast delivery.

I tested this sports bra at the gym over several weeks, and while there are better options on this list for support - like the Panache Non-Wired Sports Bra and the Shock Absorber D+ High Support Sports Bra - it's a good option that feels like it's been designed for those with larger chests, even though it comes in smaller sizes too.

Unlike many other sports bras on our list, this one is solely an encapsulation bra - rather than a combination bra, which has a compressive element to it as well. The two cups separate breasts and hold them into the chest as a normal bra does, but as the design is made from polyester and nylon, it's moisture-wicking and comfortable to wear during sweaty workouts. The underwire is the biggest support system here, so you'll need to be comfortable with this if it's to be your pick of the best sports bras for large busts, with non-adjustable straps and a thinner underband than other styles.

This sports bra could easily have been our pick for the best medium-impact sports bra, as it's a great all-rounder, ideal for resistance training and some light walking on the treadmill. For anything more than this, I'd opt for a combination design and anything less intense, I'd opt for a compression design without underwire - like the Pour Moi Energy Strive Sports Bra.

How we tested

How we tested the best sports bras for large busts

As someone with 34G/GG boobs myself, finding a good quality sports bra has been a struggle ever since I started exercising, so I knew the challenge I was up against. That's why I tested 20 sports bras - including some from big-name brands and smaller retailers. Some of these didn't cut as they didn't offer sizes large enough. Others had the size, but not the support.

As someone who also regularly works out, having a sports bra that fits well and supports me through everything from strength training to marathon-distance running is most important. All bras I tried were put through their paces in the gym and on a run if it claimed to be a high-impact sports bra, or just in the gym if they were a medium-impact sports bra. The low-impact sports bras were worn during twice-weekly stretching or yoga sessions to mimic the pressure on the breasts during exercises like yoga and Pilates.

To find the best sports bras for bigger boobs, I assessed several different factors, including:

  • Support: As the most important element of a sports bra at the end of the day, this was the most important factor for me. Did the sports bra offer enough support to match the intensity level it promised? If not, was it supportive for other types of exercise? My threshold for inclusion was no immediate chafing and very limited jiggling, without feeling like I was wearing a corset.
  • Size range: Most larger retailers will offer up to a DD in sports bras. For me, it was important to include only sports bras that offered sizes way beyond this to actually cater for those with breasts significantly larger than average - like myself. I settled for an H-cup and beyond, with preference given to those that went up to a J.
  • Clasp system: The best sports bras for bigger boobs come with a minimum of three clasps on the back of the bra, with special mention for those with a dual clasp system. As there's more to keep supported, it's important that the back of the bra can hold up.
  • Availability: Fewer brands and stores, both online and off, sell good sports bras for large busts, so I assessed each retailer on how easy it was to buy each of the bras in terms of the sizes they had available, along with delivery times. Only those that were easy to buy online made the list.
  • Cost: As anyone looking at this guide knows, buying bras for bigger boobs is often an expensive endeavour. Add in the pricier materials and systems included in a sports bra, and you could very easily spend upwards of £50 on your kit upgrade, so I tried to have the largest majority of sports bras under this price tag, with options for those who are happy to go above it.

How to choose the best sports bra for large busts for you

Some people with larger cup sizes tend to prefer an encapsulation style as each breast is individually supported. In addition, look out for...

  • Support: "For a fuller bust, it’s worth going for a wider shoulder strap to protect the shoulders from any digging in. I’d also highly recommend a racer or wide strap cross-back style to help your back support the weight as you move, and to reduce any restriction to shoulder movement," says Danielle Wood, head of buying at Know The Origin, an eco-friendly sportswear brand.
  • The underband: “The underband is the most important part, as this is where all the support comes from. It should sit horizontally the whole way round (and not ride up at the back) and feel more snug than your normal bra, but not so tight that it digs in. The underwire should follow the natural crease of the breast, and not sit on the breast tissue, while the breasts should be enclosed within the cups," explains Emma Woodrow, Lingerie Buyer at Pour Moi.
  • Style: Sports bras come in three types: compression, encapsulation, and combination. "Some people with larger cup sizes prefer an encapsulation style as each breast is individually supported," says Jess Grace, an expert bra fitter at boobydoo.
  • Coverage: "For larger cup sizes, we would recommend looking for a sports bra that offers full coverage across the breasts (as opposed to something with a lower-cut neckline)," says Grace.
  • Adjustable: "A bra with adjustable straps and a hook and eye fastening is also ideal, so you can make adjustments to ensure that the sports bra fits to your size and shape," explains Grace.
  • Comfortable: Does it dig in? "If your bra is well-fitting, it will hold you comfortably but not dig in," says Wood.
  • Can you cut the labels out? "Printed label information instead of labels will reduce rubbing, and flat seams are best for the same reason. Otherwise, make sure you can cut the labels from the bra without damaging the material," says Wood.
  • Try it on - properly: "It might seem obvious, but make sure when you try on that you do some stretching and jumping up and down in the bra to check how it performs in movement, not just that it fits well when standing still."

How should a sports bra fit? 

A sports bra should fit comfortably while offering support to your bust, either with compression, encapsulation, or both (combination/hybrid). It should be tight enough to squeeze two fingers between the strap and your shoulders, without being so tight that it restricts your movement or breathing.

If the bra is underwired, the wire should fit flat against your ribs without moving too much during exercise, and it shouldn't pinch or feel uncomfortable. The band at the back should also sit comfortably and in a straight line across your back, rather than up by the shoulder straps.

"Try on the sports bra, then do the bounce test as if you were running. If there’s too much movement, you may need to go down a cup size," explains Woodrow. "There should be no chafing at the underarms, shoulder straps or seams. Raise your arms over your head and check that the band doesn’t ride up - if it does, you may need to go down a band size.”

Do you need to wear anything under a sports bra?

It can be tempting to layer for extra compression, but you shouldn't need to wear anything underneath a sports bra. With the right fit, you shouldn't even need to consider it.

"If you have bigger busts, I would advise to opt for a sports bra with underwiring to ensure you are supported, this prevents the need to wear a bra underneath a sports bra," explains Woodrow. "As long as you choose the right, supportive and comfortable sports bra, you shouldn’t need to have support underneath.o

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Grace Walsh
Health Channel Editor

Grace Walsh is woman&home's Health Channel Editor, working across the areas of fitness, nutrition, sleep, mental health, relationships, and sex. She is also a qualified fitness instructor.

A digital journalist with over seven years experience as a writer and editor for UK publications, Grace has covered (almost) everything in the world of health and wellbeing with bylines in Cosmopolitan, Red, The i Paper, GoodtoKnow, and more.