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.
Related: 10 Plus Size Workout Clothes Every Curvy Girl Needs
Let’s Discuss The Bounce First
Working out and getting your sweat on is a necessity in life. Exercise is essential for our overall wellbeing, 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 in our side. There has been several scientific studies about breast movement during exercise that has 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.
Definitely NOT the bra I run in! Too much cleavage here.
How To Buy A Proper Fitting Sports Bra
So many women wear the wrong sports bra size and it leads to discomfort. Make sure you have adequate support by measuring before you purchase 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. Nationwide, Fleet Feet Running Stores offer special events, designed for female athletes, to find the best fitting bra.
It’s important to match the level of activity you’re doing 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 Sports Bra Size
- 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.
Measuring guide provide by Brooks
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.
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.
Related: How To Start Running At Any Size
10 Best Plus Size Sports Bras For Running (Get The Job Done)
10 Best Plus Size Sports Bras For Running (Get The Job Done)
I love that this bra by Elomi keeps your breasts seperated and provides a moisture-wicking fabric. It's available up to sizes 34GG.
The adjustable straps back this bra a true winner. It's great as your breasts change sizes regularly. It's available in sizes up to 44h.
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.
Score maximum support at a great price at Old Navy. Available in sizes up to 4x. They also offer great plus size athelticwear!
The crossback design of this plus size sports bra offers a great fit underneath racerback tank tops. It's also a sweatwicking fabric. Available in sizes up to 3X.
Lane Bryant LIVI Active Medium-Impact Wicking No-Wire Sport Bra - Strappy Back
If you're looking to take a break from your maximum support, this bra is a great option for your walking or crosstraining days. I like the 3 rows of hook & eyes - it really helps me feel suppported. Available in band sizes up to 48.
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 one is available via Amazon Prime. I love the front zip feature. It makes it easy to get out of when you're super sweaty. Plus, it's a great feature when you're breastfeeding. Available in sizes up to 5X. Just be sure to use that lingerie back so the zipper stays nice between washes!
Amazon Brand - Core 10 Women's (XS-3X) Icon Series 'Fierce Pleats' Mesh Yoga Longline Sports Bra
Another favorite from Amazon and available via PRIME! Plus, don't you love how cute it is? It gets top ratings and rave reviews from customers for fashion + fit. Available in sizes up to 3X. This would be super cute under a great plus size athletic top.
As if I don't need another excuse for a Target trip. This plus size sports bra, made by Champion, offers maximum support and comfort. Plus, it comes in an array of fun colors and available up to size 44D.
**Source: Live Science