A good sports bra is vital for any runner with boobs, but even more so for those of us who are D cup & up. The last thing that you want when you’re running is to have your straps slipping off your shoulders, your bra moving around or just any sort of discomfort. Maintaining a high level of support is also important for the health of the Coopers ligaments that hold up breast tissue and prevent sagging as well as the best way to avoid breast pain.

At Brava, we believe that a larger bust should not be a restriction to running or exercise. If you’re looking to enter a fun run, get active to beat the winter blues, get fit for summer or just want to increase your health and fitness, here are our pick of the 5 best sports bras for runners.

Panache Sports Bra

6 – 18, D – J cups

The encapsulation style of this bra means that you’ll be held in perfectly whilst jogging or sprinting. The Panache Sports Bra reduces bounce by up to an impressive 83%. Small details like the padded straps, padded hook and eye closure and the J-hook racerback converter make this an extremely comfortable and supportive pick. Although the cups have a thick moulding, it never feels bulky or constricting. The shape also looks great underneath t-shirts so your bust will look its best while running too!

Read our full review of the Panache Sports Bra here.

Shock Absorber Active D+ Classic Sports Bra

8 – 18, D – H cups

This bra is often a game-changer for women in our fitting rooms and a Brava fitter’s favourite. It's a firm fitting wirefree compression style that keeps your bust close to your chest. While most of these styles are flattening, the Shock Absorber Active D+ Classic Support Bra still manages to give a rounded shape under clothing without compromising on support. The cups are made of a light, breathable fabric that draws sweat away from the body and dries quickly, and the leotard style padded straps will stay in place while you move.

Freya Epic Moulded Crop Top Sports Bra

6– 18, D – H cups

Another moulded cup encapsulation style, the Freya Epic Moulded Crop Top Sports Bra is usually available in a striking fashion colour most seasons. The comfortable padded straps are positioned at the centre of the cups, so this style won’t slide off your shoulders whether you have the J-hook racerback in position or not. The underwires are cut low and wide and the band is thick to reduce pressure against the body while moving. The foam inside the cups is perforated to keep them light and breathable plus COOLMAX fabric wicks away moisture and is odour resistant too so you’ll be totally comfortable for the long run.

Read our full review of the Freya Epic Moulded Crop Top Sports Bra here.

Elomi Energise Multiway Sports Bra

10 – 22, D – K cups

This is a superb option for curvier frames! The straps are fully adjustable and have the J-hook to convert the bra to the racerback position. The fabric in the cups feels light but is sturdy. The underwires are also beautifully shaped to avoid poking your armpits! The cup shape is similar to an everyday bra, but the extra panel of fabric above the cups works wonders for those with very full upper busts. Not just a great sports bra for running, the Elomi Energise Multiway Sports Bra works a treat for those with active jobs.

Read our full review of the Elomi Energise Multiway Sports Bra here.

Ulla Kate Underwired Sports Bra

10-22, D – JJ cups

The Ulla Kate Underwired Sports Bra is an absolute marvel of engineering and provides structured and powerful support. We find that Kate works well on those who haven’t had success with other styles. The underwires are cut low on the sides which makes it perfect for short-waisted or petite frames who might otherwise get poked in the underarm. The cotton lined straps are thick and wide but sit high up on the shoulders to prevent slippage and the cups provide a lot of coverage, but the material is silky and it feels almost like a second skin. The comfort is unbeatable, and this is a stand-out style in the J-JJ cups.

Read our full review of the Ulla Kate Underwired Sports Bra here.

Need some help with a sports bra but can't make it in-store? Use our award-winning virtual fitter service to speak with expert bra fitters who can help you get the best sports bra for your size and shape! Find out more here!