The Best Sports Bras for Gym Workouts

Words by Hannah Abu

Do you know the right type of sports bra for you? With so many brands making different levels of support, featuring their individual patented technologies, you could be forgiven for not knowing. With that being said, not all sports bras are created equal, and the right bra for your activity level can make all the difference when working out. If you're looking for the perfect sports bra and aren't sure where to start, The Sports Edit has you covered.

What should you look for in Gym Bras?

When it comes to gym bras, selecting the right level of support is crucial. Many first-time gym-goers make the mistake of investing in high-support or super compressive bras designed for intense activities, which can be uncomfortable during low-impact exercises and even restrict your movement. Understanding the nuances of support levels helps you make the best choice. Lets get stuck in:

Low-medium support bras

Low-medium support bras offer the perfect combination of comfort and freedom of movement, ideal for low-impact activities like mobility exercises, stretching, and weightlifting.

One of the key features that set low-medium support bras apart is their use of softer, breathable materials. These fabrics prioritise comfort and movement, allowing the skin to breathe and preventing discomfort or irritation, even during prolonged periods of wear. Additionally, the flexible straps add to the overall comfort, ensuring that the bra moves with you instead of the other way around.

Moreover, their flexibility and adaptability make them an excellent choice for a range of gym workouts. Whether engaging in yoga poses, performing resistance training exercises, or focusing on core strengthening routines, you can trust in the balanced support provided by these bras.

High-support sports bras

High-impact activities like CrossFit, HIIT, and boxing require a level of support that goes beyond the standard. During rigorous workouts, the body undergoes rapid and dynamic movements that can put considerable strain on the chest area. This is where high-support bras truly shine, offering support to minimise movement while maximising comfort.

A high-impact sports bra is engineered with the specific needs of intense workouts in mind. One of their standout features is the increased coverage they provide. With a design that extends further across the chest and sides, high-support bras offer considerably more support to minimise bounce and movement, even during the most vigorous exercises. This extended coverage keeps everything in check, reducing the risk of discomfort or injury caused by excessive movement.

In addition to superior coverage, a high support sports bra also incorporates advanced compression technology. By applying gentle yet firm pressure to the chest, these bras help to stabilise your chest and surrounding tissues, effectively reducing movement in all directions. This compression not only enhances comfort during high-impact activities but also promotes better circulation and muscle support, aiding in performance and recovery.

A final key feature of high impact bras is their thick straps, often designed to be wide and/or padded to spread weight over a larger surface area and minimise discomfort. Unlike standard bra straps, which can stretch or dig into the skin under intense pressure, the straps of high-support bras are designed to withstand pressure, so you don't have to. Made from durable materials and often featuring adjustable or padded elements, you'll get reliable support without causing discomfort or irritation.

Which brands have the best gym sports bras?

Most sports bras do exactly what they say on the tin; however, you might want to choose one that's tailored to your workout needs specifically. Picking a high support bra for treadmill sprints and softer light support for heavy barbell lifts with minimal movement not only impacts your performance in the gym but your confidence.

By refining your choices based on the technical features of the sports bra, you can add ventilation, stretch, or breathability to the support. Now, onto which big brands you should look out for that specialise in gym and training bras specifically. Here are some of our favourites:

• Nike: Renowned for its cutting-edge designs and technological advancements, Nike stands out for its ability to deliver sports bras that excel in both support and comfort. Thanks to Dri-FIT Technology that keeps you cool and thoughtful details like non-slip straps, you'll stay focused whether you're engaging in high-intensity interval training or weightlifting. Nike sports bras are engineered to keep you supported and comfortable, allowing you to focus on your workout without distractions, for both low and high impact bras.

• Sweaty Betty: Sweaty Betty is synonymous with performance and style, offering a range of sports bras that are as fashionable as they are supportive. Designed with the modern athlete in mind, Sweaty Betty's bras seamlessly blend performance-enhancing features, like wide padded straps and removable pads, with on-trend designs making them perfect for intense workouts and lifting your confidence. Sweaty Betty’s commitment to making high-support sports bras less garish than the norm is what makes them one our favourite brands.

• Reebok: Reebok has long been a staple in the world of athletic wear, and its workout-ready sports bras are no exception. Built for gym enthusiasts who demand exceptional support and durability for a fraction of the price, Reebok's sports bras are engineered with innovative RBK tech to withstand the rigours of intense training sessions. From moisture-wicking fabrics to reinforced seams, Reebok's sports bras offer peace of mind and confidence.

• Vuori: Vuori's sports bras are designed to help you look and feel your best during workouts. With a focus on quality craftsmanship and attention to detail, Vuori's bras offer a perfect blend of performance and style. Whether you're practising yoga or hitting the weight room, Vuori's sports bras provide the support and comfort you need for the right exercises; thanks to details like their BreathInterlock fabric and removable cups, you'll stay focused and motivated, all while ensuring you stand out for all the right reasons.

• adidas: adidas sports bras prioritise both style and performance, making them an ideal choice for gym training sessions. With a commitment to innovation and quality, adidas offers a range of sports bras that cater to your style. From seamless construction with strategic mesh panels to HEAT.RDY and AEROREADY tech, adidas sports bras are designed to keep you comfortable and supported, allowing you to train with confidence and style.

Conclusion

Choosing the best sports bra is not just about finding something that fits; it's about finding a supportive match to the right exercise that can significantly enhance your gym experience. No one wants to wear a bra thats too tight with straps digging into their shoulders for some light mobility work. Different activities demand different levels of support, and investing in a sports bra that hits the right notes can make a world of difference. Understanding the different levels of support is key to ensuring you get that best fit.

When it comes to picking the perfect sports bra, it's a good idea to explore top-quality options from leading brands like Nike, Sweaty Betty, and adidas. This can be overwhelming, but here at The Sports Edit, we've simplified it and have all the best options in one place. Check out our range of sports bras today.