If you wear a D or DD or larger bra size (think G, GG, or H), you know what a pain it can be to get a sports bra for large breasts, especially for high impact sports. Most of them come in sizes S-L, rather than bra cup sizes, which doesn't help larger breasts much. It's even harder if you need a small band/large cup combination.
The average sports bra just isn't designed for that body type. And most of them don't have nearly enough support for D cups and above. Never mind trying to workout or do high impact sports if you need a G or an H cup.
Next, there's the issue of what type of exercise you want to do while wearing the bra. Walking or yoga only require light support, as your feet don't hit the floor hard and you're not bouncing up and down that much. However, if your goal is something more high-impact (such as running or boxing) you'll need a bra with the ability to cushion the impact of pounding against the ground and bouncing up and down.
Generally speaking, you want a bra that offers encapsulation, rather than compression. I've gone into this in more detail below, but essentially a compression bra doesn't support as well. An encapsulation sports bra is closer to a standard bra's support.
So, check not only the bra size, but whether it is encapsulation or not and the level of support, before you buy anything. I've added a tip list (further down the page) so you can see exactly what to look for.
I've also divided the bras by type of exercise they are best for, so it's easier to find what you want.
Surround your breasts and support them all around (so movement in all directions is minimized).
Encapsulation bras give better support (and restrict bouncing. They are constructed of firm, supportive material to keep you in place while you jump or run.
These bras are the best choice if you have large breasts and want to do high-impact exercises such as running. They all come in bra sizes, including D, DD, DDD, G, and H cups. Check the sizing for each one (DDD in US is E in UK sizing and F in EU sizes).
Panache knows large bust bras and this sports bra is no different. It keeps your chest in place without squashing (no uniboob!). Great for running, or other high-impact sports.
The mesh keeps you from getting too sweaty, and it's got padded straps (for more comfort as you move around). There's a clip in the back, so you can wear it as a racerback.
You don't have to settle for basic black or white either, it's also available in pink, navy, turquoise, animal print, beige, lime/cobalt, cosmic print, black/taupe, gray/mango, abstract ice, abstract paint, kaleidoscope, cyber print, pixel, geometric, hot pink, raspberry, and tons of fun prints. UK sizes 28D-H, 30D-H, 32C-J, 34B-J, 36B-HH, 38B-HH, 40D-GG.
So supportive it can stand up to the most intense workout. You can ride horses, run, jump, or play soccer. And then turn around and wear it to work a few days later. You won't bounce at all, no matter what size you wear. Special fabric keeps you cool and comfortable no matter how hard you work out.
The spacer material means it isn't big or bulky either. The straps can be adjusted along their full length so you can get just the right fit. A J-hook in the back lets you convert the bra to racerback, so the straps won't show under sleeveless tops. It's got a wide center panel so it will be best if you are wide-set.
This bra is available in 19 colors, including beige, storm, navy, carbon, crimson, gray/aqua, blue/pink/lime, red/gray, petrol, and lime/black. UK sizes 28D to 40G.
No bounce. Really. None. You can run, do jumping jacks, whatever you want and everything stays put. It's also a racerback, so the straps won't slip or slide as you move around. Moisture wicking material keeps you from getting sweaty under your bra as you exercise.
Be aware that the back clasp is a bit tricky. There's a clasp, then a keyhole, then another clasp. A bit of an obstacle to get closed, but that also means it will stay that way.
Comes in a rainbow of colors (blues, reds, violets, black, white and more), in US sizes 32-42 B, C, D, DD, E, and F.
Next, make sure to hand wash it. That will also help the bra last longer. Machine washing (and even worse, drying) are harsh on bra fabrics, and particularly harmful to the powermesh, underwires, and padding used in sports bras.
If you absolutely have to machine wash, use a lingerie bag and wash it on a gentle cycle in cold water. Then let the bra air dry naturally, either lying flat or draped over a rod. Don't hang it by the straps, or they will stretch.
This bra sized sports bra keeps everything in place without squashing you, or giving you the dreaded "uniboob." The underwires are on the outside, which looks a bit odd, but it means they can't rub against your skin (because they don't touch it).
The straps adjust with a unique system; rather than sliding there are six "settings" (I suppose the best analogy is like holes in a belt), with an extra bit of fabric under the adjustor. The net result is to reduce chafing and slipping.
The bra also gives great lift and support. And, it's comfortable, even when you're bloated. There's also the option to wear it racerback.
Comes in beige, black, lilac, twilight, mint, red, toffee, and 15 more colors. It's in bra cup sizes, which, on this bra, straddle the full bust and full figure ranges in US sizes 32, 34, 36, 38, and 40 C-H; 42D-DDD.
This is strong enough for high-impact sports, but still looks like a regular bra. Encapsulation styling and a four-part cup keeps everything where it belongs without discomfort from bouncing.
There's a "J" hook so you can wear it as a racerback (for even more support, or if you're exercising in a tank top).
Comes in black, white, camo, navy geometric, black/red, lime print, camo, and beige.
UK bra sizes 32GG-J, 34G-K, 36DD-K, 38D-K. 40D-J, 42D-H, 44D-GG, and 46D, DD.
Compression bras are good for minimizing your bust. They tend to look less like a bra and more like a cropped tank top. The trouble is, they're not the best option for women with large breasts. There's not much support, so if you try one, you'll bounce and move side-to-side.
This bra will support up to H cups, and no squishing or uniboob. It actually gives a flattering shape (a rare thing in a sports bra). The neckline is high, but if the colors show, so what.
The straps can be criss-crossed for more support (and detach in the center rather than on the bottom, so they won't slide as much when you move around. Whether you wear it to go hiking in the jungle, ride horses, or do yoga, everything will stay in place!
Comes in white, beige, pink, gray, leopard, berry tie dye, black and contrasting colors (18 in all) with contrasting trim. Sizes cover small bust, full bust, full figure, and even some large band/small cup combinations: 32, 34, 36 A, B, C, D, DD, DDD, G, and H; 38 B-H, and 40C-G.
Here's a handy tip list for finding a sports bra that's supportive and comfortable.
Good for moderate exercising (like walking or hiking). Machine washable, and comes sizes up to 50J. It also has a full range of hard-to-find larger band B cup sizes (40B to 50B). This is good for medium impact sports like bicycling or yoga.
The straps are inset so they won't show under exercise clothes.
It's wire-free so there's nothing to dig in as you move around. The back and sides stay put as you move around and the high neckline means you won't spill out the front as you jump or lift.
Next, there's the issue of what type of exercise you want to do while wearing the bra. Walking or yoga only require light support, as your feet don't hit the floor hard and you're not bouncing up and down that much. However, if your goal is something more high-impact (such as running or boxing) you'll need a bra with the ability to cushion the impact of pounding against the ground and bouncing up and down.
Generally speaking, you want a bra that offers encapsulation, rather than compression. I've gone into this in more detail below, but essentially a compression bra doesn't support as well. An encapsulation sports bra is closer to a standard bra's support.
So, check not only the bra size, but whether it is encapsulation or not and the level of support, before you buy anything. I've added a tip list (further down the page) so you can see exactly what to look for.
I've also divided the bras by type of exercise they are best for, so it's easier to find what you want.
Best High Impact Sports Bras for DD and Large Busts (up to HH Cups)
If you have D, DD, DDD, G, H or larger cups, and you want to do high-impact sports such as running, you'll need extra support to control the bouncing (ow!). It used to be really hard to find sports bras for big busts, and even harder to find something that looked good. Luckily, there are far more choices now than there used to be. And, some of them are even suitable as outerwear (nobody has to know).Choose the Right Level of Support
- Light impact: walking, yoga, pilates, or gardening
- Moderate impact: bicycling, hiking, or power walking
- High impact: tennis, jogging, boxing or running
Surround your breasts and support them all around (so movement in all directions is minimized).
Encapsulation bras give better support (and restrict bouncing. They are constructed of firm, supportive material to keep you in place while you jump or run.
These bras are the best choice if you have large breasts and want to do high-impact exercises such as running. They all come in bra sizes, including D, DD, DDD, G, and H cups. Check the sizing for each one (DDD in US is E in UK sizing and F in EU sizes).
Panache knows large bust bras and this sports bra is no different. It keeps your chest in place without squashing (no uniboob!). Great for running, or other high-impact sports.
The mesh keeps you from getting too sweaty, and it's got padded straps (for more comfort as you move around). There's a clip in the back, so you can wear it as a racerback.
You don't have to settle for basic black or white either, it's also available in pink, navy, turquoise, animal print, beige, lime/cobalt, cosmic print, black/taupe, gray/mango, abstract ice, abstract paint, kaleidoscope, cyber print, pixel, geometric, hot pink, raspberry, and tons of fun prints. UK sizes 28D-H, 30D-H, 32C-J, 34B-J, 36B-HH, 38B-HH, 40D-GG.
So supportive it can stand up to the most intense workout. You can ride horses, run, jump, or play soccer. And then turn around and wear it to work a few days later. You won't bounce at all, no matter what size you wear. Special fabric keeps you cool and comfortable no matter how hard you work out.
The spacer material means it isn't big or bulky either. The straps can be adjusted along their full length so you can get just the right fit. A J-hook in the back lets you convert the bra to racerback, so the straps won't show under sleeveless tops. It's got a wide center panel so it will be best if you are wide-set.
This bra is available in 19 colors, including beige, storm, navy, carbon, crimson, gray/aqua, blue/pink/lime, red/gray, petrol, and lime/black. UK sizes 28D to 40G.
No bounce. Really. None. You can run, do jumping jacks, whatever you want and everything stays put. It's also a racerback, so the straps won't slip or slide as you move around. Moisture wicking material keeps you from getting sweaty under your bra as you exercise.
Be aware that the back clasp is a bit tricky. There's a clasp, then a keyhole, then another clasp. A bit of an obstacle to get closed, but that also means it will stay that way.
Comes in a rainbow of colors (blues, reds, violets, black, white and more), in US sizes 32-42 B, C, D, DD, E, and F.
Washing and Caring for Your Sports Bras
The first thing to remember is to wash (or at least rinse) that bra as soon as possible after you finish your workout. If it stays sweaty and wet the fabric will start to break down, shortening its life and usefulness.Next, make sure to hand wash it. That will also help the bra last longer. Machine washing (and even worse, drying) are harsh on bra fabrics, and particularly harmful to the powermesh, underwires, and padding used in sports bras.
If you absolutely have to machine wash, use a lingerie bag and wash it on a gentle cycle in cold water. Then let the bra air dry naturally, either lying flat or draped over a rod. Don't hang it by the straps, or they will stretch.
This bra sized sports bra keeps everything in place without squashing you, or giving you the dreaded "uniboob." The underwires are on the outside, which looks a bit odd, but it means they can't rub against your skin (because they don't touch it).
The straps adjust with a unique system; rather than sliding there are six "settings" (I suppose the best analogy is like holes in a belt), with an extra bit of fabric under the adjustor. The net result is to reduce chafing and slipping.
The bra also gives great lift and support. And, it's comfortable, even when you're bloated. There's also the option to wear it racerback.
Comes in beige, black, lilac, twilight, mint, red, toffee, and 15 more colors. It's in bra cup sizes, which, on this bra, straddle the full bust and full figure ranges in US sizes 32, 34, 36, 38, and 40 C-H; 42D-DDD.
This is strong enough for high-impact sports, but still looks like a regular bra. Encapsulation styling and a four-part cup keeps everything where it belongs without discomfort from bouncing.
There's a "J" hook so you can wear it as a racerback (for even more support, or if you're exercising in a tank top).
Comes in black, white, camo, navy geometric, black/red, lime print, camo, and beige.
UK bra sizes 32GG-J, 34G-K, 36DD-K, 38D-K. 40D-J, 42D-H, 44D-GG, and 46D, DD.
Are Compression Bras a Good Choice?
Compression bras are good for minimizing your bust. They tend to look less like a bra and more like a cropped tank top. The trouble is, they're not the best option for women with large breasts. There's not much support, so if you try one, you'll bounce and move side-to-side.
Best Medium-Impact Sports Bras for Large Busted Women
(sizes up to H cups)
Good for moderate exercises such as Zumba, skiing, cycling or power walks. These styles have a bit less bounce control than the high-impact bras. However, they will keep you supported and feature materials that keep moisture away from your skin. They come in real bra sizes, from A to J cups (depending on the brand) and 32 to 50 band sizes). Size ranges and colors are listed under each bra description.
This bra will support up to H cups, and no squishing or uniboob. It actually gives a flattering shape (a rare thing in a sports bra). The neckline is high, but if the colors show, so what.
The straps can be criss-crossed for more support (and detach in the center rather than on the bottom, so they won't slide as much when you move around. Whether you wear it to go hiking in the jungle, ride horses, or do yoga, everything will stay in place!
Comes in white, beige, pink, gray, leopard, berry tie dye, black and contrasting colors (18 in all) with contrasting trim. Sizes cover small bust, full bust, full figure, and even some large band/small cup combinations: 32, 34, 36 A, B, C, D, DD, DDD, G, and H; 38 B-H, and 40C-G.
Large Bust Sports Bra Fit Note
Here's a handy tip list for finding a sports bra that's supportive and comfortable.
- The band should be a bit tighter than a normal bra.
- Like a standard bra, you should fit inside the cups, without spilling over. If you do, you need a larger cup size.
- If the bra wrinkles, it's probably too big. Go down a cup size.
- Move around when you try it on (after all, you won't be standing still when you use it).
- Look for fabrics like Lycra that wick away perspiration (making you more comfortable).
- Encapsulation bras are likely your best choice. Compression bras can cause uni-boob (they squash your tissue against your chest), and may not be as supportive during strenuous exercise.
- Try your "sister" size (one band size up and a cup size down). You get the same cup volume, but with more "give" in the band for better comfort.
Good for moderate exercising (like walking or hiking). Machine washable, and comes sizes up to 50J. It also has a full range of hard-to-find larger band B cup sizes (40B to 50B). This is good for medium impact sports like bicycling or yoga.
The straps are inset so they won't show under exercise clothes.
It's wire-free so there's nothing to dig in as you move around. The back and sides stay put as you move around and the high neckline means you won't spill out the front as you jump or lift.
That high neckline may show through tops, but you could treat it like a camisole. I rather like the look of the black one with the pink trim.
Comes in gray, black, white, beige, pink, purple, and two shades of gray, most with contrasting trim. Sizes 34, 36, 38, 40, 42, 44, 46, and 50 C, D, DD, F, G, H, I, and J.
A sports bra that looks quite a bit like an ordinary bra, but with hidden support to keep you comfortable without bouncing. The back and sides are tall and smoothing, to keep bulges under control. You'll also get good separation (no uniboob)!
Mesh inside the cups helps push moisture away from your skin, keeping you cooler. Even the straps have ventilation. They are also convertible, so you can wear them the standard way or criss-crossed. The criss-cross option helps if you are moving your arms a lot. This is a full figure bra, so it is more generously cut than a full coverage bra (yes, it is confusing!). The cups, center panel, and straps are all wider for a better fit.
If you prefer low-impact sports, such as walking, yoga, or pilates, this is a good choice. The cups are a cotton blend, so you'll sweat less. And it's wireless for better comfort.
There's still plenty of support, because it has Glamorise's "Magic Lift" design. Criss-crossing bands inside the bra help shape, separate, and lift (even without a wire). The powermesh band on the bottom helps keep everything in place and provides a bit of extra support. There are also seams for shaping and powermesh in the back and sides for bulge control and better hold.
It's full coverage, but no uniboob, no bulging out of the top, and no sagging either.
Available in white, pink, beige, and black; cups go from 38-50 B, C, D, DD, F, G, H, I (UK sizes).
This bra has a unique feature: adjustable support! You can wear it for low, medium, or high-impact sports. There is a special front panel you can tighten or loosen to change the level of support you get. Perfect if you like to switch activities from say yoga one day to aerobics another.
And, it still has the Magic Lift design (criss-cross bands inside the cups) for better support and shaping without any wires.
It's constructed of moisture-wicking fabric, with mesh on the sides and back to keep you cool and comfortable without a lot of sweating as you workout. And it dries quickly too.
The straps are inset and it has a leotard back, both of which will help the straps stay in place without slipping.
Comes in blue/green, gray/white, white, or gray/black in sizes 32, 34, 36, 38, 40 , 42, and 44 B, C, DD, F, G, H; 46B-G. (UK F is the same as US DDD)
Comes in gray, black, white, beige, pink, purple, and two shades of gray, most with contrasting trim. Sizes 34, 36, 38, 40, 42, 44, 46, and 50 C, D, DD, F, G, H, I, and J.
A sports bra that looks quite a bit like an ordinary bra, but with hidden support to keep you comfortable without bouncing. The back and sides are tall and smoothing, to keep bulges under control. You'll also get good separation (no uniboob)!
Mesh inside the cups helps push moisture away from your skin, keeping you cooler. Even the straps have ventilation. They are also convertible, so you can wear them the standard way or criss-crossed. The criss-cross option helps if you are moving your arms a lot. This is a full figure bra, so it is more generously cut than a full coverage bra (yes, it is confusing!). The cups, center panel, and straps are all wider for a better fit.
Low Impact Sports Bras for DD, DDD and Higher Cups and Large Breasts
(sizes up to I cups)
Ideal for slower, more flexible exercises such as yoga, tai chi, walking, or even just doing household chores or gardening. The fabrics tend to be lighter and stretchier than the other bra styles. Also, many of them are wirefree. The lighter fabric and no wires means less support, but that's not as important for gentler workouts.
There's still plenty of support, because it has Glamorise's "Magic Lift" design. Criss-crossing bands inside the bra help shape, separate, and lift (even without a wire). The powermesh band on the bottom helps keep everything in place and provides a bit of extra support. There are also seams for shaping and powermesh in the back and sides for bulge control and better hold.
It's full coverage, but no uniboob, no bulging out of the top, and no sagging either.
Available in white, pink, beige, and black; cups go from 38-50 B, C, D, DD, F, G, H, I (UK sizes).
This bra has a unique feature: adjustable support! You can wear it for low, medium, or high-impact sports. There is a special front panel you can tighten or loosen to change the level of support you get. Perfect if you like to switch activities from say yoga one day to aerobics another.
And, it still has the Magic Lift design (criss-cross bands inside the cups) for better support and shaping without any wires.
It's constructed of moisture-wicking fabric, with mesh on the sides and back to keep you cool and comfortable without a lot of sweating as you workout. And it dries quickly too.
The straps are inset and it has a leotard back, both of which will help the straps stay in place without slipping.
Comes in blue/green, gray/white, white, or gray/black in sizes 32, 34, 36, 38, 40 , 42, and 44 B, C, DD, F, G, H; 46B-G. (UK F is the same as US DDD)
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