If you have smaller breasts or don’t want a lot of support, you may not like the non-removable pads. Based on testing insights, we then rated each bra from 1 (would not recommend) to 5 (excellent) based on fit, support, comfort, adjustability, quality, durability, and overall value. In total, we've worn and tested our sports bras regularly over the course of four months, and we continue to wear them on a weekly basis. We will continue to update this list with new insights for each sports bra as we keep testing them at home. Overall, we found this bra extremely comfortable and supportive. It's not the cheapest on the market, but if you can afford to invest, it's a great option. Best sports bra plus size As you wear, sweat in and wash sports bras, the material they’re made from starts to break down, and the bra itself stretches out. This degradation process is inevitable, but you can extend a sports bra’s lifespan by taking care of it properly. There’s no hard and fast rule about how often to replace a sports bra, says Sena. You can usually tell when a sports bra is past its prime based on how it feels on your body. When the bra’s material stretches out, you’ll begin to feel less supported by it, which is a good sign it’s starting to deteriorate. You should not think about or be distracted by your sports bra while wearing it, according to Tempesta. If you are, it’s time to find a new one, she says. Meet our experts

Other beneficial features include a wide underband, molded cups, and soft, lightweight fabric that dries easily. What is the difference between high impact and low impact sports bras? As with everyday bras, any wiring should sit flat against your rib cage with no digging or pinching. The band should also sit flat and shouldn’t move about as you exercise. How we test For high impact activity, we gravitate toward combination and encapsulation bras. They’ve been found to offer better support for larger chests, but compression-style sports bras can provide great support for smaller chests too.We found that the zipper has a tendency to slip from time to time—something to note if you plan on wearing this without any additional layers. At Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure that all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and with no undisclosed financial conflicts of interest. Nike has added plenty of ventilation panels to keep you from overheating during a workout, and the flat seams are designed to prevent uncomfortable pinching or chafing. The fit is tighter than your everyday bra, despite it only offering low-impact support. Nike describes this fit as ‘body hugging’, but this does feel reassuring when wearing the bra for a more intense yoga or Pilates workout. The difference between an everyday bra and a sports bra has recently become less distinguishable as wireless bras and bralettes grow in popularity, says Sena. Very often, wireless bras and bralettes look like sports bras due to their style and design. But wireless bras and bralettes are not sports bras, and they should not be worn for exercise since they don’t minimize movement, experts told us. Some people, however, wear sports bras as everyday bras, especially those with larger busts. While sports bras might not give you as much shape as typical everyday bras, some find that they provide enough support and are more comfortable to wear all day, which is entirely a personal preference. How to shop for sports bras

If you’re looking for a supportive and comfortable sports bra that still looks great, a zip-front sports bra may be right for you. Marcellus thinks zip-front sports bras are the superior choice because they avoid distracting clasps and are fully supportive. Plus, the stylish look delivers a boost of confidence during your workouts. to 4.7 stars: These sports bras for large breasts are excellent—they might have minor flaws, but we still recommend them.Zoe Malin is an associate updates editor who covers fitness and related apparel at Select. For this article, Malin spent months researching, sourcing and trying sports bras to find the best options. She also spoke with two bra experts to learn how to shop for and care for sports bras.