Last Updated on November 11, 2023 by Kimberly Stroh
Women were designed with the gift of curves. I’ve got a soft figure and consider myself an overweight runner, but that doesn’t stop me from logging miles. I get the job done, regardless of my bra size. My breasts might be a blessing from my maker, but let’s be honest – they’re the last thing I want to think about while crushing a workout. I’ve got great news: THERE ARE SOLUTIONS. Here are 10 top-rated plus size sports bras that you need in your workout drawer. Not only are they going to stop the bounce, but you’ll look great too.
10 Best Plus Size Sports Bras For Running
One of my favorite picks on Amazon, this bra is adjustable in the shoulders. If your weight tends to fluctuate in the bust, this is a great option to "grow" with. Comes in sizes up to XXL.
I love that this bra by Elomi keeps your breasts seperated and provides a moisture-wicking fabric. It's available up to sizes 34GG.
Made from material that promises not to stretch, this bra will give you the same support run after run. The neck line is nice and high too, so you'll stay tucked in! Available in sizes up to 46G.
Oprah first introduced me to Wacoal as one of her "favorite things" and I have been hooked ever since. They're a great well made bra! This one is available up to size 32DDD.
This performance sports bra is a camisole style and higher on the neck. It's great for layering and preventing bounce.
By far, this is the most budget-friendly option, coming in under $15 on Amazon. Champion is a trusted name that's been around for years, but don't expect a lot of frills.
Spanx moved into the athletic realm, and the quality is awesome. They combine style with function and offer sizes up to a G.
Athleta is a Gap brand that I love! This sports bra offers full coverage, plenty of great colors and sizes up to 3x. It's an online exclusive.
I know Lululemon was once NOT plus size friendly, but they've changed! This high impact sports bra comes in sizes up to DDD.
Nike is doing more than ever for plus size women. I love the simplicity and comfort of this full coverage Alate bra.
Why You Need A Plus Size Sports Bra To Prevent Bounce
Working out and getting your sweat on is a necessity in life. Exercise is essential for our overall well-being, from our mental health to obtaining physical attributes. However, the wrong sports bra can wreak havoc on your body. It can even cause injury. Over time, the ligaments in your breasts stretch and cause a sagging sensation if you wear a bad-fitting sports bra.
During exercise, women’s breasts bounce more than previously estimated, moving a vertical distance of up to around eight inches (21 centimeters) compared with a past maximum measurement of six inches (16 centimeters). The bouncing, in some cases with breasts weighing 20 pounds or more, can prove painful and damaging to the limited natural support system.**
Fortunately, science is on our side. There have been several scientific studies about breast movement during exercise that have helped manufacturers develop better plus size sports bras.
When I grew up, I wore double sports bras to cope with the bounce. I was only a size D back then (just well-endowed but not overweight). Two kids later, as I’m writing about plus size running, I’ve discovered better solutions to the bounce can help when from sizes D to JJ.
Related: 10 Plus Size Workout Clothes Every Curvy Girl Needs
How To Buy A Proper Fitting Sports Bra
So many women wear the wrong sports bra size, and it leads to discomfort. Ensure you have adequate support by measuring before purchasing a sports bra. If you’re purchasing a sports bra in store, be sure that you’re properly fitted by a professional. They can measure for you.
It’s important to match your activity level with the type of sports bra you need. However, most plus size sports bras naturally offer maximum support because they’re trying to minimize any bounce at all.
The Different Types Of Sports Bras
Compression sports bras: These bras typically pull over your head and compress the breasts against the chest wall to restrict movement. They do not have cups built into the design. Compression sports bras tend to work best for low- to medium-impact activities.
Compression/encapsulation sports bras: Many sports bras combine the above methods into a supportive and comfortable style. These bras offer more support than compression or encapsulation alone, making them generally best for high-impact activities.
How To Measure Your Plus Size Sports Bra
- Step One: Measure around your rib cage, directly underneath your breasts. Try to breath normally and don’t make the measuring tape too snug. Round down to the nearest inch and write it down. This will give you your band size:
- 29″ – 31″ = 34 band
- 31″ – 33″ = 36 band
- 33″ – 35″ = 38 band
- 35″ – 37″ = 40 band
- 37″ – 39″ = 42 band
- 39″ – 41″ = 44 band
- Step Two: Measure around the fullest part of your breast, while making sure the tape lies flat across your back. Round up to the nearest inch and write it down. To calculate your cup size, subtract your rib cage measurement from your bust measurement. The difference in inches is your suggest cup size. If you’re between sizes, just round up.
Once you have your proper size, you can begin to shop from the top rated plus size sports bras below. Most likely, you want to purchase several. You can purchase them depending on the type of workout intensity or you can own several just to switch out on a daily basis.
Related: How To Start Running At Any Size
How To Care For Your Sports Bras
Let’s be honest, these sports bras are an investment. You want them to last. If you don’t take proper care of your sports bras, the elasticity can diminish. Hook and Eyes can break open and they’ll be more likely to cause irritation on your skin.
Wash your sports bras by hand if you have the time. I use Tide Plus Febreze Sport Active Fresh Sport Liquid Laundry Detergent (affiliate link), which is designed for activewear. If you can’t hand wash them, wash them together, in lingerie bags, on a gentle cold cycle. After washing, lay them flat to dry. Repeat this every time so that they stand the test of time.