Finding the perfect sports bra for running is no easy task. For those of us who are “blessed” with larger sized breasts, this task is even more challenging and frustrating. Feeling unsupported while running or working out is not only extremely uncomfortable, but can also lead to feeling quite self conscious. Stress no more! I’ve done a very thorough and “scientific” analysis to come up with the Best Sports Bras for the Well Endowed Runner.
Best Sports Bras For The Well Endowed Runner
Oh how I wish I could wear those cute little strappy bras with with fun patterns and fashionable cuts. No such luck as most have very little support. When my current sports bras were ready to be replaced, I set out on a mission to find the best sports bras for the well endowed runner.
My scientific method including trying on over 10 sports bras of different styles and brands. A few of them never made made it out of the dressing room as they were impossible to get on or they were unable to snap on my own. I then performed my very scientific jumping up and down test while hoping I did not give myself a black eye in the process. This is not a sponsored post, nor was I given any of these products.
These are the 2 finalists the best sports bras for the well endowed runner that made it into my shopping bag and out on my run.
The Glory 2.0 by Athleta
Slightly compressive bra with underwire that is sold by band size and cup size. Designed to “hold and fit” during high impact workouts. The quality of this sports bra is fantastic and the fabric very soft. I felt the bra gave me lift and shape without sacrificing support. After 3 runs, this bra is a keeper. I have already purchased a second one. Fit is true to size.
What I loved about this sports bra:
-Sizing is by band and cup size
-Adjustable shoulder straps
-Hook and eye closure
-Comfortable underwire that both lifts and slightly compresses at the same time
Available at Athleta here retail price $64.
The Shock Absorber
Recommended by a friend of mine who swears by them, I was eager to give it a test run. The Shock Absorber is available on line only (as far as I know). While it does not have underwire this bra lives up to it’s name. I felt locked and loaded and ready for battle in the shock absorber. It lifts and provides great shape avoiding that “uni boob” look.
The shoulder straps are adjustable as is a mid back extra strap that provides extra support. The back band has a chafe free hook and eye closure. While not a “cute” bra, I would say it’s the most supportive sports bra I’ve ever run in. It was a little tricky to get on the first time. Once I figured it out, I was in love. I’ve also ordered a second one of these. Fit true to size.
You can find the Shock Absorber on Amazon and I also recently found them 40% off on FreshPair.
Hope my well endowed runner friends found this to be helpful. Do you have a favorite sports bra you recommend?
Wendy says
I”m not “blessed” but when I was a breastfeeding mom, I was sporting some DDs. At that time, finding a supportive running bra was a challenge. The one I found held the girls in place but I had perpetual bruising on my shoulders from the straps. I’m so glad to see that bra makers have responded to the need!!! Great review and I’d be all over that Shock Absorber if I needed it.
Deborah Brooks says
Yes it’s so frustrating when you don’t feel comfortable in your bra.
Maureen @ Maureen Gets Real says
I’ve never tried either of these sports bra. My favorite is the Juno bra by Brooks. It comes in your normal bra size and I adore it! The shoulder straps have this velcro like material so you can adjust it and the back has a clasp like a normal bra. Plus Brooks has an amazing return policy and they let you run in it for 60 days or something and will give you a full refund on it if you don’t like the product.
Deborah Brooks says
I used to wear the Brooks Maia bra but when they sold it to Moving Comfort they changed the style a bit. They no longer do it for me.
Annmarie says
I am NOT well endowed (sad face) BUT I do need a new sports bra (or 5) stat – thanks for inspiring me to get shopping!
Deborah Brooks says
Everyone says sad face but I would gladly switch in a heartbeat-grass is always greener right?
Marcia says
You’re right: Strappy is all the rage lately. My girls aren’t huge but even I find those fall short for me. These look like great picks!
Deborah Brooks says
They are not supportive at all. Sometimes I can find one just for yoga.
Shathiso says
As you say the Shock Absorber is not the cutest, but I still love how it looks – very professional and sleek. I will have to try that one out. Thanks for doing all that research for the rest of us!
Deborah Brooks says
Glad you found it helpful-happy running
[email protected] says
I’m so glad I’m a guy🤣
Deborah Brooks says
LOL definitely a lot less to worry about 🙂
Judy @ Chocolaterunsjudy says
This is not a dilemma I have. Although I must say Skirt Sports bras are really comfy, but then I’m small so the support doesn’t matter much.
Deborah Brooks says
They are cute but sadly, I don’t find them supportive enough for running for me
Darlene says
Definitely don’t need a supportive bra – the opposite for me and I like one from Handful.
Deborah Brooks says
I have heard people say that they like those. Definitely designed for smaller sized breasts
Lesley says
I’m not gifted at all, and those sports bras with the cute straps and designs chafe my torso like a mofo! I go with basic Zensah because it’s comfortable and never chafes me. The straps are wide enough for me and they never dig in.
Deborah Brooks says
That’s great. Finding the right bra that works for you is so important
Hannah says
Love my Shock Absorber bras! I have 2 different models and I actually like the Multi-Sport Max a bit better than the Ultimate Run (but both are great).
Deborah Brooks says
I will try that one next thanks!
Roz says
Well this is a common problem for me. I have a drawer full of failed sports bra purchases. My latest discovery is Glamorise. It is specifically for the well endowed and come it bra sizes. I don’t like underwire and found a style that works for me. They have both. I purchased on Amazon but I have seen in some stores and they have their own website. Glamorise.com
Deborah Brooks says
Thanks I will check those out too! Hope you are well miss you 🙂
Virjinia @ With Purpose and Kindness says
Girl, it’s like you were reading my mind! I’ve been looking for some of these. Of course I want to run without a shirt so I want them to be cute but they never have those in our size lol. Anyways, since these keep you in place, I’m definitely given them a look!
Deborah Brooks says
Oh good I hope that one of these works for you. Finding the right bra is key to feeling good on the run
Rachel says
I definitely fall into this category. It is super frustrating, but I’ve had pretty good luck with Fabletics sports bras! I will definitely have to try out one of these, though. They look hardcore, which I need, haha.
Deborah Brooks says
Really? I did not know they made the more supportive ones too
Zenaida Arroyo says
I am not well endowed either but still feels uncomfortable when running. I hate the bouncing and sometimes they hurt. My favorite sports bra is from Victoria Secret. I bought mine maybe 3 or 4 years ago. They changed the style and it isn’t as supportive. I know, I know, I am due for new bras.
Deborah Brooks says
Yes certainly sounds like it’s time to replace yours!
Carrie A Groff says
This is a great review! I’m a well-endowed Yogi lol and I’m always testing out bras to make sure I’m securely tucked-in during headstands, handstands and even down dog lol I can’t do the pretty strappy bras either!
So far, my Victoria’s Secret sports bras have worked great…except the ones with the front zipper…those definitely don’t keep me secure during my inversions.
Deborah Brooks says
I agree that the ones with the front zipper are not at all as supportive
The Accidental Marathoner says
Sadly, I don’t have breasts, just nipples, so I can’t relate AT ALL. Seriously, I’m like a boy, especially after breastfeeding! I have a wide back and really need a 38A (maybe even AA), which I can’t find ANYWHERE. I have a few sports bras but rarely wear them. I usually just run in regular bra and have never had a problem. The Shock Absorber bra is super cute!
Deborah Brooks says
Really a regular bra?!
De Bolton says
Im am not blessed but appreciate comfort. Going to share this with my clients and friends.
Deborah Brooks says
Thanks really appreciate that!
Abbey Sharp says
Such a great post! Will pass along!
AmyC says
I love any bra that does not produce a uni boob! My faves are from Athleta and Lululemon. I can get away with the strappy non-support ones from GAP when I’m not exercising, but want to wear athlesiure.
Deborah Brooks says
Yes I agree the uni boob look is not so attractive!
Emily @Sinful Nutrition says
Can’t say I suffer from this issue, but love how you share tips like these! Such a helpful resource!
Deborah Brooks says
Thanks Emily!
Kathryn @ Dancing to Running says
I’ve never heard of either of these bras before. As a fellow well-endowed runner I completely sympathize with how difficult it is to find the “right” bra for the girls. I love my current Moving Comfort bras, especially the Juno.
Deborah Brooks says
I used to wear those but they recently changed the style a bit and they no longer work for me.
Farrah says
It’s hard to find a bra that’s truly comfortable/supportive and doesn’t break the bank! Thanks for sharing your finds! :]!
Deborah Brooks says
It sure can be a challenge !
Coco says
LOL on locked + loaded. Athleta stopped carrying my favorite bra — I’ll have to check these out. I like the Skirt Sports one I have – have you tried theirs?
Deborah Brooks says
Yes I have and sadly they are not supportive enough for me for running
Natalie says
Oh thank you so much. This was much needed info for me. I struggle with my fitness bra forever… it’s horrible and for a long time a long to replace it. The Glory one sound really good fit for me.
Deborah Brooks says
I really like it hope you find one that works for you as well. The struggle is real!
Kim G says
Thanks for these two recommendations! I mainly run in the Moving Comfort Juno bras as they help minimize the “bounce”, but I’m always on the lookout for something new!
Deborah Brooks says
I used to wear those and then they altered them slightly and they no longer work for me. It’s a struggle to find a good one!
Laurie says
Ummm… no one has ever accused me of being well-endowed! In fact, when I was nursing I had cleavage for the only time in my life! 😀
By the way, I found a bunch of your comments in my spam folder. Not sure what is going on there! I was not ignoring you!!!
Deborah Brooks says
ha that’s ok I don’t know why!
Julie @ Running in a Skirt says
Such a good post! I’ve never needed a better sports bra like this until I got preggo and grew 3 sizes! I’m picking up these STAT!
Deborah Brooks says
Ha ha yup pregnancy will do that to you!
Fairytales and fitness says
For the longest time I refused to buy o es that didn’t have a fastener in the back but they are becoming harder to find. Thanks for linking up.
Deborah Brooks says
Yes they have to be supportive!
Nicole @ Foodie Loves Fitness says
I hear ya – I can’t even count how many sports bras have been given to me as gifts from family members or came with Fabletics outfits that had NO support for my boobs. My absolute favorite sports bra is the Lululemon Energy bra… I have it in probably 7 or 8 colors! It’s comfy, cute and supportive.
Deborah Brooks says
Sadly, none of the Lulu bras worked for me! They are at least cute. On well!