A running-specific sports bra with medium to high support, moisture-wicking fabric and minimal seams works best. Look for options designed to reduce bounce over repetitive impact

Often, yes. Most runners, especially those with larger busts or doing higher-impact runs, benefit from high support to reduce movement and improve comfort

It should feel snug but not restrictive. The underband should sit flat, straps shouldn’t dig in, and there should be no rubbing when you move

You can. Many high-support running bras also work well for HIIT or cardio sessions, though they may feel overly structured for yoga or low-impact training

High-impact running bras with adjustable straps, wide underbands and firm compression tend to offer the most reliable support for larger bust sizes.

Running bras are built specifically to manage repetitive impact and forward movement, with greater emphasis on bounce control, sweat management and long-wear comfort

The key difference between a compression sports bra and encapsulation sports bra is that an encapsulation sports bra has separate cups like that of underwear, whereas a compression bra has one section for your breasts. Compressive sports bras are usually recommended for women with smaller to medium busts whereas the extra support that often comes with encapsulated sports bras, adjustable bands, straps and underwire means these are usually more suitable for bigger bust sizes. Both types of bras offer a high level of support making them suitable for multiple uses, although encapsulated sports bras are better suited to high-impact workouts, running, dancing, or any activities which require more movement.

Choosing whether to go padded or non-padded can often come down to personal preference. Pads provide extra coverage, which can be helpful if running in only a sports bra and provide a smoother shape under tight tops, however they add an extra layer which can trap heat and also can lose their shape during regular machine washing. In contrast, non-padded running bras will dry faster, feel lighter against the skin and provide better airflow. So where you lose coverage, you can gain comfort.

For any long-distance training where you’ll be running for long periods of time, wearing a high-impact or high-support sports bra is crucial. High-impact sports bras are built to handle the repetitive movement caused by running, so will provide the adequate compression needed for your breasts. At The Sports Edit we stock running bras from the world’s leading performance brands such as Nike, New Balance, adidas and Sweaty Betty with plenty of options to help you find the right running bra for you.

Whatever the weather, a running bra needs to have the maximum level of support to minimise bounce as you run. For summer runs specifically, runners may prefer to choose a  lighter colourway which won’t absorb the sunlight, keeping you cooler.