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The Ultra Run Bra: No Padded Cups? No Problem

Master the Half.

By Morgan Petruny and
knix catalyst sports bra
Lakota Gambill

Cushioned Adjustable Straps. Why Trust Us?

When it comes to choosing the right high-impact sports bra, having enough support is the first priority, at least for us. But how you get that support can really be a personal preference: Some runners love cups with underwire support, while others prefer wire-free. Or maybe you like a little more compression for a super secure feel, while your running buddy wants looser, adjustable bands. The key is finding the right style that supports your cup size. To guide you in your search for the best support, we did the legwork—literally. These eight options will become workout wardrobe staples.

1
Tri-Flo Ventilation

Knix Catalyst Sports Bra

Knix Catalyst Sports Bra
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Tri-Flo Ventilation

Knix Catalyst Sports Bra

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Credit: Lakota Gambill

Supports A to G cups

Knix’s Catalyst provides all-inclusive coverage, boasting an incredible support range from size 32A to 42G. The bra has molded cups to cradle each breast (preventing bouncing), perforated vents in between the breasts (the area that usually becomes swampy with sweat), and easily adjustable ladder straps.  

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The Ultra Run Bra: No Padded Cups? No Problem

Champion The Spot Comfort Sports Bra

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Champion The Spot Comfort Sports Bra
2
The Ultra Run Bra: No Padded Cups? No Problem

Champion The Spot Comfort Sports Bra

Credit: Lakota Gambill

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Gel-cushioned straps ensure you won’t get raw markings from long-wear and intense activities. The Spot Comfort is also extremely breathable and moisture-wicking; mesh on the adjustable straps and front panel promotes ventilation. The bra is lined with molded cups for non-underwire support. The back hook-and-eye closure makes it easy to take off. One thing to consider: size up. One tester found the fit a little too snug, even on the last hook-and-eye setting.

3
Zippered Closure

Outdoor Voices Powerhouse Bra

Outdoor Voices Powerhouse Bra
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Zippered Closure

Outdoor Voices Powerhouse Bra

Supports B to DD cups

Outdoor Voices' ultra-supportive sports bra is so popular, it keeps selling out. It's made with the brand's signature sweat-wicking SuperForm fabric, which is built for high-impact workouts and even includes UPF 50 sun protection (crucial for any runners who prefer to jog outside). It has a zip closure for easy removal and a mesh back so you can wear it all year long—yes, even in the hottest summer months. 

The Best Sports Bras for Runners
4
Non-Chafing Underwire

Panache Ultimate High Impact Bra

Panache Ultimate High Impact Bra
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Non-Chafing Underwire

Panache Ultimate High Impact Bra

Credit: Amazon

Supports C to DDD cups

Some testers were unsure how much they would like this sports bra, thinking that an underwire design would chafe or rub. But Panache nails the support, with none of the discomfort. Made with molded and seamless cups, the bra is contoured to move with you as you run but still locks down unwanted bouncing. Plus, the left strap even has a hook that allows for switching between an H-back and racerback style.

5
These High-Impact Bras Deliver the Best Support

Lululemon Energy Bra

Lululemon Energy Bra
5
These High-Impact Bras Deliver the Best Support

Lululemon Energy Bra

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Designed specifically with high-impact running in mind, Luluemon's sleek sports bra features adjustable, double-crossback straps that'll keep you fully supported every step of the way (the chic design is just a bonus). This pick also has molded foam cups to give the design some structure, and a soft, brushed underband that won't dig into your skin.

6
High Neck

Core 10 by Reebok Open-Back Sports Bra

Core 10 by Reebok Open-Back Sports Bra
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High Neck

Core 10 by Reebok Open-Back Sports Bra

Supports sizes XXS to XXL

For a high-neck, better-coverage option, Core 10's coral sports bra is a good everyday pick (you can ditch the t-shirt and just wear it as a crop top to the gym or park). It has a completely open back, making it super breathable, and soft molded cups for built-in support. Thanks to the elastane in its fabric, this sports bra is stretchy and can hold its shape even after multiple uses. 

The Best Sports Bras for Runners
7
Give A Gift

Triumph Triaction Control Lite

Triumph Triaction Control Lite
7
Give A Gift

Triumph Triaction Control Lite

Credit: Lakota Gambill

Supports B to DD cups

When one tester said she would sleep in this sports bra—an underwire sports bra—we were skeptical. But the Triaction’s supportive bits aren’t made of the usual underwire parts. The brand uses a special patent underwire with soft spring tips that flexes and adapts better to your breasts’ movement. How does this translate on a run? “It was very soft against the skin,” a tester reported. “It felt very high quality, but without that ‘cardboard-like’ construction.”

8
Hidden Inner Sling

Wacoal Full Figure Underwire Sports Bra

Wacoal Full Figure Underwire Sports Bra
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Hidden Inner Sling

Wacoal Full Figure Underwire Sports Bra

Credit: Wacoal

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With its wide range of sizes, outside underwire frame, and slide-and-hook adjustable back straps, Wacoal's bra is great for bigger busts. (There's even a hidden inner sling in the G and H cup sizes that provides extra support.) The material is fully moisture-wicking, and with almost 4,000 5-star reviews, it's a clear customer favorite.

"This sports bra is outstanding. I am a 32H, which is an exceptionally difficult size to fit for a sports bra. Or any bra for that matter," writes one reviewer. "I own 10 of these, not joking. They are worth every penny."

Headshot of Amanda Furrer
Amanda Furrer
Test Editor

Amanda is a test editor at Runner’s World who has run the Boston Marathon every year since 2013; she's a former professional baker with a master’s in gastronomy and she carb-loads on snickerdoodles. 

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