Let’s go for a run! (I’m not wearing a stitch of makeup in this pic, eek!)
The Lululemon Athletica 50 Rep Bra continues to rock my socks, among other things, but like everything great, it may not satisfy my needs forever, which is why I really appreciate all of the awesome sports bra recommendations you left in the comments earlier this week.
I thought it might be handy to round them up in one place with links, just in case you’re on the market for a new sports bra.
And if you already own one that you’re happy with, please share the make/model. As a resource, this particular list is lacking in budget bras. Maybe there just aren’t very many good inexpensive ones out there, but if you happen to know of any, please pass ’em along. 🙂
1. Royce Impact Free Sports Bra ($50)
The Royce Impact Free Sports Bra is built to provide maximum support for larger sizes. Reader Nekosan says it’s, “Totally. Awesome. It actually comes in 28 and 30 band sizes, too!”
“This sports bra by Royce is styled in cotton rich fabric. Offering maximum support, it has dual layered cups with a wide concealed underband. With padded straps for comfort, its seamless inner cups wick away moisture. It fastens with velcro and hooks.” – figleaves.com
2. Title Nine 3-Reasons Support Bra ($44)
Reader Hyzenthlay recommends the Title Nine 3-Reasons Support Bra, saying “They are expensive, but it’s hard to find a good sports bra when you’re a D-cup (or larger!).”
With adjustable straps and a back closure for a custom fit, it’s another model designed to provide maximum support, even in high-impact activities like running.
“There are at least 3 reasons to buy this bra: First, it is the most popular bra for both our employees and our customers. 2nd: the super-support keeps D and DD cups from bouncing, even in high impact activity. 3rd: this bra will keep you cool and dry, with wicking fabrics throughout. Adjustable straps and back closure make for a close-to-custom fit. By Moving Comfort. 32-40 C-DD” – titlenine.com
3. Moving Comfort Juno Bra ($52)
Looking for a racer back option? The Moving Comfort Juno Bra fits the bill. It has a racer back design and shouldn’t slip off your shoulders.
Reader E says it doesn’t only look cute under a tank top. It’s also comfortable as all heck. She “…ran a marathon in it a few months ago with no hitches.”
“The Moving Comfort Juno sports bra offers supportive comfort during aerobics, trail runs, climbing, gym sessions and other high-impact activities. Soft polyester/spandex fabric wicks moisture away from skin; mesh insets offers cooling ventilation. Lower elastic band keeps bra secure without stifling skin underneath. Seam-free interior cups increase comfort. Front straps adjust using a concealed rip-and-stick closure. The fabric of the Moving Comfort Juno sports bra features an antimicrobial treatment that helps reduce odors.” – rei.com
4. Shock Absorber Sports Bra ($79)
Reader Gala swears by the Shock Absorber Sports Bra, which comes in four levels of support. She says it easily handles her Zumba and aerobics classes.
“Stylish, practical & durable. The shock absorber Ball sports bra has been designed with practicality in mind. The elasticated cups support & hold your bust, while the back & peekaboo front keep you cool and flexible. Ideal for intense physical activilty.” – figleaves.com
5. Lululemon Ta-Ta Tamer Bra ($58)
The Lululemon Ta-Ta Tamer smooth cups offer both shape and coverage. Plus, the convertible straps in the back can also be worn crossed. Reader Johanna likes that it maintains its shape even after countless washes.
“Tames the B to DD bust size for high impact sports like running! 4-way stretch power luxtremeTM fabric has inherent wicking & high LYCRA® content for maximum support. Smooth cups give shape and coverage or can be removed for extra breathability. Wide padded straps distribute weight & won’t dig in! Molded hook-&-eye closure for easy on/off. Adjustable, crossable straps! Chafe-resistant with flat seams.” – lululemon.com
I love to run along the water…
How about budget sports bra options?
Target carries some in the $15-23 range, and the $18.99 C9 by Champion Women’s High-Impact Racerback Sports Bra gets good reviews.
Kohls also has a pretty good selection, with prices from $19-50. Their Lily of France In Action Cotton Sports Bra (on sale for $21) looks like it has potential. As for Marshall’s and Ross, they’re probably worth checking out, but from what I’ve seen, their selections can be hit or miss. If you spot a big brand sports bra at either store on deep discount, you might want to pounce.
Your friendly neighborhood beauty addict,
Karen
P.S. I can’t believe it. I almost forgot…
P.P.S. Doing anything fun tonight? I’m trying to get my act together in time to catch a 7:50 showing of Super 8. Have you seen it yet?
Trisha says
I actually have a sports bra with an underwire. Hard to find, but a must when you have boobs as big as mine.
Let me go check the brand…
Well, the tag’s worn out, so it remains a mystery.
missv says
I absolutely love my marie jo intense underwire sports bra.
It has an amazing support, are very fashionable and they go up to an F-cup.
Another nice brand is Freya. They are less pricy and go up to a an H-cup!
Karen says
Thanks for the recs, Missv. Good to know abou the Freya!
noeladd says
These look awesome! Thanks for rounding up the suggestions. Super 8 is a great movie, my sister and I saw it last weekend and loved it!
Karen says
Hi Noeladd,
I liked it. I thought it got a little long in the second half, but I enjoyed it overall.
Vijaya says
Wow! You’ve outdone yourself Karen. Thanks for all you do!
Karen says
Hope you find this helpful!
Danielle N @ Beauty Lite says
Even though this isn’t beauty related, I still love it! Thanks Karen!
Oh, I usually get my sports bras at Targ and I’m a D. I end up just buying a size smaller so they hold the girls in tighter. I might have to start looking into making a bigger investment soon though…
Karen says
Hi Danielle,
That’s a good idea to go a size down. I have a question, though. Does it chafe?
Caitie says
I love my shock absorber…I think it’s a level 4 (most support) and it’s fantastic. I wouldn’t jog in anything else! Unfortunately I’ve never been able to find cheaper sports bras that give enough support for bustier ladies.
Karen says
Me too… I hope to find one someday!
Brittany says
For those of use who are REALLY endowed the Enell sports bra is the only one I have ever found to keep me from bouncing! 🙂
Karen says
Awesome, thanks Brittany!
Samantha says
I have a Marika Uplift sports bra that I love to pieces. It’s the only one that I’ve found that both supports my boobs and doesn’t make me look super flat chested. It has two adjustable hooks on the band on the sides of the bra that you can make the fit as you desire and comes with removable pads for extra modesty. Plus, I bought mine for cheap at T J Maxx, and anything is better at a bargain.
Karen says
Hi Samantha,
That sounds like a great bra! I have to hunt it down. Hopefully I can get it on sale.
Alka says
I have several of the Champion C9 racerbacks and I can say they definitely strap down my size C’s during a run. But they don’t hold up as well during JM’s 30 Day Shred – too much bouncing. 😛 I have been wanting to try the Moving Comfort Alexis Sports Bra and I am totally obsessed with the Lululemon 50 Rep, just wish it was cheaper.
Karen says
You and me both! I hear there are Lululemon outlets here in the US… I want to visit one someday to stock up. 🙂
Hyzenthlay says
I ended up in the Lululemon in Berkeley today (after a trip through the TitleNine store, where I bought the Juno) and found a 50 Rep in grapeseed for $29! So, it came home with me as well 🙂 Good day for buying SUPER COMFY workout/lounge clothing, not so good for the wallet . . .
Stephanie R says
The Title Nine 3 reasons sports bra…LOVE. I have 3 of them and they really mean it when they say you won’t bounce. I like to do hip hop and zumba and these DD’s don’t move. Which reminds me…one of them is getting fairly worn out. I’m going to have to hit the store in downtown Portland again soon.
Karen says
I feel like the only person on the earth who hasn’t tried zumba! I’ve heard it’s a lot of fun.
Jen says
I love Title Nine’s 3 Reasons bra as well. The adjustable shoulder straps are great, and I really like how the back closure allows me to quickly take a sweaty sports bra off without wrangling it over my head. And, the support is incredible. The band did chafe my skin a bit in the center of my chest, but I just swipe a little Body Glide there before wearing and I’m good to go.
Karen says
I have the Fiona Bra and it’s the exactly the same as 3 Reasons — I loved it until it started chafing me. I need to pick up some Body Glide…
Suji says
Karen, you are beautiful with or without makeup!!
And thanks for this post, I have a victoria’s secret sports bra and one from underarmour, but I need one that contains the bounce more! I’m interested in trying the TItle Nine bra.
Karen says
Aww, thanks Suji!
What are you up to today? I’m about to go running. Afterwards I’m gonna head into the city. 🙂
Amanda says
I second Brittany’s suggestion. If you have larger breasts, you will be well served by the Enell sports bra: http://www.enell.com/products.php?productID=1
It’s the only one I’ll wear (and I have very large cups but a small back measurement, a combo which is often difficult to properly fit). Oh, and the Enell is about function, not style. Not a particularly cute bra, but you won’t bounce at all in it. Oprah’s favorite sports bra, too, supposedly.
Holly says
Let me chime in as another die hard ENELL fan! It offers support like you cannot believe.
Nina says
awesome post! im going to look into the 5 youve listed.
Elle says
You’re adorable without makeup Karen 🙂 And thanks for even more sports bra recommendations!
Sarah says
I run pretty regularly (5-8 miles) and i love under armour and Nike for my sports bras – and only synthetics. cotton is useless; doesn’t wick at all.
Karen says
Hi Sarah,
I haven’t tried the Under Armour ones. Do you know of the specific name of the bra you like?
Jillian says
I’m desperate. I’m a small girl, small framed and short. However I have Triple D boobs…. It sucks. I have been wearing 6, yes six, sports bras every time I exercise because I have yet to find a sports bra that actually does what it’s suppose to do and keep my boobs from hitting me in the face. I’ve just been smashing them with many bras. It is annoying and hurts. Please has anyone found a sports bra that works? I’m tired of spending money on all these bras review sites say work when in reality they only work for people with like no boobs. Please someone who understands and has huge boobs too reply. 🙁
Brittany says
Ok Jillian I feel your pain! Literally. My bust is a 34E and I can run without any problem wearing one sports bra. I wear the Enell sports bra. They have 2, a low impact and a high impact. I obviously wear the high impact for running. The bra is ugly as sin but it works! For my size I actually wear a 0, so they are made for some big busts! Somewhat expensive (roughly $60) but I have had mine for years and no problems. Hope this helps!