The best sports bras for large breasts to support you through every workout, tested by us

If you've been on the hunt for one of the best sports bras for large breasts, you'll know the struggle of finding a fit that offers decent support and looks good. It can feel like a near-impossible task - yet it's essential for staying comfortable while working out. 

Many sportswear brands have thankfully become more inclusive in recent years, adding tall, petite, and plus-size ranges to their collections. However, the sports bra departments seem to be overlooked more often than not. Whether that's because there are fewer people size D and up or it's just not as cost-effective to produce larger sizes, who knows...But as a 34G/GG myself, I know how frustrating it is to browse the rails of the biggest sports bra brands, only to leave empty-handed and frustrated. 

To help you find your perfect fit, I've tried and tested over 20 of the best sports bras from various retailers going beyond a cup-size G, focusing on comfort, fit, support, and durability. So, whether you need a new sports bra for daily yoga or one to see you through your favourite high-impact workouts, I've got you covered with this selection.

The quick list

The best sports bras for large breasts

The best sports bra for large breasts overall

When it comes to the best sports bras for large breasts, the overall must-buy has got to be Shock Absorber's D+ Max Support Bra. It's a full-coverage bra with contoured encapsulation and blanket-like strapping support across the chest, which not only makes you feel more supported but also avoids the mono-boob look that can come with traditional compression bras when you have a larger chest. Thick shoulder straps offer a range of lengths and the triple hook clasp on the back keeps everything in place. 

It's also one of the best high-impact sports bras so I'd recommend this bra for heavier workouts - running, jogging, exercise classes like body combat or HIIT - anything where you're jumping around a lot as it's made from materials that feel like a second skin when slick with sweat, helping you to stay comfortable during and after your session. 

This sports bra may not come in all the exciting colours but it's well worth the investment as a catch-all bra. I bought my first one six years ago and I still have it today. While it's stretched in places and the elastic has made its way 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. 

The best sports bra for running

The Runderwear Power Running Bra is a combination sports bra with adjustable straps, a double backband, and seven closures in total - it's hard to find a sports bra more supportive than this one, trust me. However, it takes the top spot for runners - whether you're learning how to start running as a beginner or doing a marathon for the first time - as it's also a padded sports bra. 

While the Shock Absorber D+ sports bra is also a great option for running, being our top pick overall, it's not the best for those who enjoy running above all else as the material can start to chafe on the move. The padding on the Runderwear Power Running Bra prevents this from happening completely, which is especially beneficial if you like to wear a running vest when you go out. 

The high-coverage neckline and thick underband have the double role of supporting and minimising bounce from both the top and the bottom of the bra, keeping breasts in place throughout the workout. 

The only issue I've had with this bra is that it can be a little fiddly to put on and take off - but this is down to the double band with double and triple hooks at the back, so you do have to compromise on ease with this bra in favour of support. In my mind, however, that's a compromise well worth making.

The most comfortable sports bra for large breasts

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, you'll also know that there's no getting away with a flimsy yoga bra if you have larger breasts. That's where the Pour Moi Energy Strive bra comes into my routine. 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. 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.

This is also 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. However, it's not a bra that's suitable for high-intensity exercise. After taking the bra through a sweaty gym session that involved the 12-3-30 workout to finish, I was sceptical about its ability to handle a run. While it faired incredibly well during the gym workout, making it the perfect go-to for weightlifting, yoga, and Pilates, when I did finally give this bra a go on the treadmill, I had to give up a few kilometres in as I felt my boobs bouncing around more than I would've liked and nipple chafing start to kick in. 

The best sports bra for larger breasts with zip front

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 very supportive, with a thick underband and 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.

The best low-impact sports bra for large breasts

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 was 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."

The best high-impact sports bra for large breasts

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 breasts individually for support, with many (including this one) offering compression over the top. This is my top pick for 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-itensity 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 breasts. 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.

The best luxury sports bra for large breasts

The MAARE Solidarity High-Impact Sports Bra is the most expensive sports bra on our list by at least £20 - but it made it on here 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 breasts, the MAARE Solidarity Bra has a curved panel on the inside of the bra over the top of the breasts that prevents any upward bounce, which is certainly 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 you 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. 

The best sports bra for large breasts on amazon

If you're looking for one of the best sports bras for larger breasts 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 decent 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 like 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 breasts, 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 breasts

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 that exclusively focus on women's sportswear, but these didn't make the cut as, more often than not, they simply didn't offer sizes large enough.  

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 the most important thing. 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 it was 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 a number of 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 up to 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 so to actually cater for those with breasts significantly larger than average - like myself. I settled for a 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 breasts so I assessed each retailer on how easy it was to buy each of the bras in terms of 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 breasts for you

 Some people with larger cup sizes tend to prefer an encapsulation style as each breast is individually supported. A few of our recommended brands for bigger cup sizes are Panache Sport, Freya Active and Elomi Energise.

• 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. 
• 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)," she says.
• 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," she says.
• 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.
• Secured elastic: "The band elastic should be secured in the seam of the bra so that it doesn't turn into the channel and become twisted or uncomfortable."
• 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 breasts, 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.