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High impact exercise is any exercise in which both of your feet leave the ground at the same time. Think: running, burpees, or basically any exercise that requires jumping.

It can be an incredible way to lose weight and body fat and increase physical fitness. Some research suggests it may even improve bone density in women (1).

A high impact sports bra can help prevent pain and discomfort during intense exercise like running, high intensity interval training (HIIT), and various sports (2).

Different styles of sports bras offer different levels of support, so it’s important to find a high support option that’s also comfortable for you (2).

Most sports bra manufacturers label their bras according to the impact level they offer. However, there are still specific design elements you should look out for to make sure you’re wearing the right sports bra for the exercise you’re doing.

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.

High impact sports bras may offer features such as thick, padded straps that are adjustable and convertible. Many designs also have a high neckline to prevent spillage and help keep everything in place.

Ideally, these bras are made with soft, breathable, moisture-wicking fabric that helps prevent chafing and thicker materials that provide support without being too bulky.

The list below features our picks for the best high impact sports bras. These are the factors we took into consideration for each pick:

  • Support: Combination and encapsulation bras tend to provide more support, but we’ve also included some compression-style bras to suit a variety of bust sizes and preferences.
  • Closure: This is mostly a personal preference, so we included both pullover bras and bras with clasps or zippers. Sports bras with clasps or zippers tend to be easier to get on and off while also offering some adjustability for more comfort and support.
  • Strap type and adjustability: You’ll find all kinds of strap styles on our list (X-straps, H-straps, convertible). Strap style is also a personal preference, but those with larger chests might find better support from adjustable straps.
  • Activity: Whether you’re lifting heavy weights while doing CrossFit or doing a sprint workout on the track, the type of movement you’re doing will affect what kind of bra works best for you. We break down the elements to look out for in our recommendations below.
  • Vetting: The bras on our list have been vetted to ensure that they align with Healthline’s brand integrity standards and approach to well-being. You can read more about our vetting process.

A note on price

General price ranges with dollar signs ($–$$$) are indicated below. One dollar sign means the product is rather affordable, whereas three dollar signs indicate a higher cost.

Generally, list prices range from $55–$80, though this may vary depending on where you shop.

Pricing guide

  • $ = under $60
  • $$ = $60–$70
  • $$$ = over $70
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Best overall

Reebok PureMove+

  • Price: $$
  • Sizes: XS–XL (A–F)

This sports bra is made of a fabric that’s supposed to firm up during high impact movements and loosen during lower impact movements.

It’s a combination-style bra with convertible straps and an adjustable back closure, and it’s highly supportive for any kind of workout. Thanks to its streamlined design, this bra is meant to fit very snugly against your skin.

It has free-cut edges to help prevent skin irritation and perforations in the front and back to help keep you cool during intense workouts.

Though it’s available in sizes A through F, reviewers with fuller busts don’t love the support it offers during high impact activities.

Pros

  • thick, convertible straps
  • minimizes bounce
  • full coverage

Cons

  • not supportive enough for some
  • a few reviews noting that the straps are too short and tight
  • may stretch and lose its shape within a few months
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Most comfortable

Glyder Full Force Bra

  • Price: $
  • Sizes: XS–XL

Available in several colors and prints, the Glyder Full Force Bra offers high support that helps hold everything in place during workouts. It’s made with soft, breathable fabric and is comfortable enough for everyday wear.

The Glyder Full Force is a current favorite of Alissa Tucker, a NASM-certified personal trainer, corrective exercise specialist, registered yoga teacher, and XPRO trainer.

She says, “As a new, breastfeeding mom who does high impact workouts for a living, a supportive sports bra has become more important to me than ever. The Glyder Full Force has wide straps to offer optimal support, and the thick material eliminates any unwanted bounce during jumping movements.”

Tucker says another design bonus is that you can wear it under any top since the neckline isn’t super high, but it still offers full coverage so you can stay focused on your workout without any distractions.

Pros

  • comfortable support
  • wide elastic straps
  • full coverage

Cons

  • non-adjustable straps
  • no padding
  • runs small
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Best for smaller breasts

Nike FE/NOM Flyknit

  • Price: $$$
  • Sizes: XS–XL

The Nike FE/NOM Flyknit bra is one of the brand’s most popular options — and for good reason. It combines compression with molded cups for added support, so it’s a good option for those with smaller breasts.

The racerback straps allow your arms to move freely, so you won’t feel constricted during overhead exercises like medicine ball slams or push presses.

Plus, it’s made from Nike’s signature Flyknit fabric, which is known for being breathable, lightweight, and seamless.

While compression-style bras may stretch out over time, reviewers note that this bra is durable and holds everything in place during high impact activities like running and HIIT.

Pros

  • lightweight, seamless design
  • removable cups

Cons

  • non-adjustable straps
  • not supportive enough for some
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Best for larger breasts

ENELL Sport

  • Price: $$$
  • Sizes: 00–8

This ENELL high impact sports bra has extra back support so you can focus all your muscle power on your workout and minimize discomfort.

Unlike many other sports bras, it has a hook-and-eye front closure, which helps you get a snug-but-not-too-snug fit. The bra uses a combination of Lycra and Naturexx moisture-wicking fabric to help keep you cool without compromising durability.

ENELL recommends sizing down if you’re between sizes.

While it’s not as adjustable as some of our other picks for fuller busts, it’s highly rated in online reviews. Users say it’s a must-have for high impact sports.

Pros

  • comfortable and supportive
  • front hook-and-eye closure
  • full coverage

Cons

  • difficult-to-fasten hooks
  • non-adjustable straps
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Best for running and sports

Under Armour Infinity High

  • Price: $$
  • Sizes: XXS–XXL

The Infinity High bra has adjustable X-straps and a back closure. It uses padding in an infinity-sign shape that’s meant to help the bra move with you.

It’s made from Under Armour’s HeatGear fabric, which reviewers say is super soft and comfortable, even for those with skin prone to irritation.

Plus, the combination of HeatGear technology, mesh panels, and more streamlined padding can help you stay cooler if you’re running or playing sports outside.

The higher neckline offers good coverage but isn’t too high to wear under a variety of shirts and tank tops.

Pros

  • thick, adjustable X-straps
  • built-in padding
  • minimizes bounce

Cons

  • difficult to get on and off
  • runs small
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Best for CrossFit

Chestee The Tiffany

  • Price: $$
  • Sizes: 4–16

The Tiffany is a pullover compression-style sports bra with removable cups, a sassy and fashionable mesh panel, and — get this — extra padding to protect your collarbone during weighted front squats or cleans and jerks.

So, that means you can focus less on your chest and more on your form when you hit your next CrossFit WOD.

Reviewers love the tailored and flattering fit, the strappy X-straps, and the extra protection it offers during tough workouts. Plus, it comes in a variety of colors and prints, so you can likely find one that suits your style.

However, based on research and reviews, Chestee’s designs might not be supportive enough for larger busts.

Pros

  • protective collarbone padding
  • front v-cut mesh detail
  • removable cups

Cons

  • low sides that may cause spillage
  • padding that may be too low and narrow for some
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Best for HIIT and boxing

Lululemon Energy Bra High Support

  • Price: $
  • Sizes: 32B–40D

The Lululemon Energy Bra High Support offers plenty of support and coverage for high intensity activities like HIIT, boxing, and cycling. It features built-in cups, adjustable double-cross back straps, and a back closure.

USA Boxing Certified Coach and FightCamp trainer Jess Evans says the Lululemon Energy Bra is “great for medium to higher intensity workouts because it has a lot of straps and fits nice and snug!”

“I have done HIIT training, weightlifting, cycling, boxing, and more in this sports bra and have always felt supported. I also love that Lululemon sports bras last a long time. They are durable and have great material that doesn’t rub your skin raw,” Evans says.

Pros

  • good coverage and support
  • soft, comfortable fabric
  • minimizes bounce

Cons

  • difficult to put on
  • runs small
  • several reviews noting that the straps are too short
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Best zip front

SHEFIT Ultimate and Flex Sports Bras

  • Price: $$$
  • Sizes: XS–6Luxe

The SHEFIT Ultimate sports bra is a combination-style sports bra with removable pads. It’ll give you great support and comfort while you’re jumping, sprinting, or even doing plyo pushups.

Reviewers of all sizes rave about its bounce-free support.

It has a front zipper, so it’s easy to take off, even if your arms have turned to jelly after your workout. It also has an adjustable rib band for an extra-custom fit.

If the Ultimate sports bra seems too intense for you and you have a smaller chest, you can consider the SHEFIT Flex sports bra. It’s listed as medium impact, but reviewers say its support still beats the rest. It has a lot of the same features as the Ultimate sports bra.

Pros

  • front zipper and Velcro rib band
  • high coverage
  • convertible padded straps

Cons

  • runs small
  • zipper visible under clothing
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Best adjustable straps

Glamorise Total Control Custom Support

  • Price: $$
  • Sizes: 32B–46I

This combination-style sports bra from Glamorise is an amazing wire-free option. The adjustable straps are held together with a two-way stretch back, which helps keep them from slipping.

It also has an adjustable mesh panel in the front, which you can tighten or loosen as needed. You’ll have easy access to kick it up a notch if you need a little extra support mid-workout.

Reviewers appreciate that this bra provides a high level of support while still being comfortable.

Pros

  • wide, non-stretch straps
  • adjustable front mesh panel
  • minimizes bounce

Cons

  • runs small
  • may chafe underarms
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Best underwire

Wacoal Sport Underwire

  • Price: $$$
  • Sizes: 32C–42I

Underwire bras can be uncomfortable, but they don’t have to be. Reviewers agree that the Wacoal Sport Underwire Bra’s design eliminates the discomfort associated with traditional underwire bras. The underwire is on the outside, with fabric between the wire and your body.

This encapsulation-style sports bra provides optimal support with an adjustable back closure and H-straps.

It has a mesh back panel to help you stay cool, and the two-ply fabric cups are supportive yet breathable.

Reviewers say it’s so silky and soft that it feels like a second skin. That makes it an extra-comfortable option for sports with tons of arm movements, such as kickboxing.

Pros

  • adjustable H-straps
  • moisture-wicking fabric
  • mesh back

Cons

  • runs small
  • wire visible under shirts
  • some reviews noting that the cup fabric is too thin
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Best convertible

Brooks Drive Convertible Run Bra

  • Price: $
  • Sizes: 32B–40DD

Like Brooks’ other sports bras, the Brooks Drive Convertible Bra is inspired by the sports bra designs from Moving Comfort, a popular sports bra company that joined the Brooks brand in 2004.

Designed for running and other high impact activities, this bra has adjustable and convertible straps that can be worn in a scoopback or racerback style for a truly custom fit. It also has a back clasp that makes it easy to put on and take off.

This bra uses compression to keep you supported and has separate cups as well.

Some reviewers with large chests say this bra is more suited for medium impact workouts. A few people mention fit issues with the cups.

Pros

  • quality construction
  • adjustable and convertible straps
  • comfortable compression

Cons

  • runs small
  • elastic band that may stretch over time
  • some reviews noting cup fit issues
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Best high neckline

Emily Hsu Designs Devon Crop

  • Price: $
  • Sizes: S–XL

The Devon Crop by Emily Hsu Designs comes in multiple beautiful prints and colors. The bra has four-way stretch fabric that hugs your body during workouts. Plus, it’s fully lined and has built-in hidden elastic to keep everything in place.

This bra is another go-to for Tucker, who says, “The Emily Hsu Crop feels like something in between a sports bra and a crop top. It has a high neck so you don’t have to worry about a wardrobe malfunction while doing burpees.

“The nice thick material allows you to feel held in and secure. I like this one best on its own, rather than with something over top. Plus, they have tons of cute colors and patterns that you’ll want to show off!”

Pros

  • high neckline
  • built-in hidden elastic

Cons

  • non-adjustable straps
  • not supportive enough for some
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PriceSizesStrap typeClosure
Reebok PureMove+$$XS–XL (A–F)adjustable, convertibleback clasps
Glyder Full Force Bra$XS–XLX-strap, non-adjustablepullover
Nike FE/NOM Flyknit Bra$$$XS–XLracerback, non-adjustablepullover
ENELL Sport$$$00–8non-adjustablefront hook-and-eye closure
Under Armour Infinity High$$XXS–XXLX-strap, adjustable back clasps
Chestee The Tiffany$$4–16X-strap, non-adjustablepullover
Lululemon Energy Bra High Support$32B–40DX-strap, adjustableback clasps
SHEFIT Ultimate and Flex Sports Bras$$$XS–6Luxeadjustable, convertiblefront zipper and Velcro rib band
Glamorise Total Control Custom Support$$32B–46IH-strap, adjustableback clasps
Wacoal Sport Underwire$$$32C–42IH-strap, adjustable back clasps
Brooks Drive Convertible Run Bra$32B–40DDadjustable, convertibleback clasps
Emily Hsu Designs Devon Crop$S–XLX-strap, non-adjustablepullover

When looking for the perfect bra for high impact exercise, here’s what to keep in mind:

  • Support: There are three main types of support. Those with larger chests may want to stick to combination or encapsulation bras for the most support. Those with smaller chests can find optimal support from all three types of bras.
    • Compression bras compress your breasts against your chest to prevent them from moving while you’re exercising.
    • Encapsulation bras have separate cups to support each breast individually.
    • Combination bras use compression and encapsulation to create a no-bounce experience.
  • Closure: Some sports bras, such as pullover bras, don’t have a closure, but some have a clasp or zipper to make them easier to get on and off. Adjustable clasps can offer more support for larger chest sizes, but closure type is ultimately up to your preference (3).
  • Strap type and adjustability: Strap style comes down to preference, but H-straps are most comfortable for many people. If you have a larger chest, you may want to stick to adjustable straps, since non-adjustable elastic X-straps may be more likely to dig into your shoulders (4).

Don’t forget to consider the type of exercise you’re doing as well.

If you know you’ll be moving your arms a lot, look for a sports bra with a softer fabric to prevent chafing. And if you know you’ll be hitting boot camp classes, make sure your bra is versatile enough to cover any kind of movement.

Which sports bras are good for larger breasts?

The best sports bras for larger breasts offer full coverage, compression, and encapsulation. They often have thick, padded straps that you can adjust and convert from X-straps to H-straps.

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?

Compared to high impact sports bras, low impact designs often use compression instead of encapsulation and may feature a low neckline, thin straps, and lightweight fabric.

Usually, low impact sports bras are unpadded and have less structure than high impact options. Often, they are pullover styles.

Do you need a high impact bra for running?

It’s a good idea to wear a high impact sports bra for running, especially if you run at a fast pace and have a large chest. If you have a small chest and run slowly, you may find that a medium impact sports bra gives you enough support.

High impact exercise can have some amazing benefits, but it can also put a lot of stress on your body. You’ll definitely need a highly supportive sports bra to prevent pain, sagging, and decreased performance.

Make sure you prioritize sports bras that have features that fit the type of workout you’re doing. If you’re just getting started in the world of high impact exercise, try looking at customer reviews to get familiar with what kinds of exercise people are using each sports bra for.