All products and services featured are independently selected by Forbes Vetted contributors and editors. When you make a purchase through links on this page, we may earn a commission. Learn more

Today, the modern sports bra is no longer just for sports. Yes, the high-functioning workout staple needs to perform in the fitness space, and has evolved in ways that appeal to more body shapes and sizes. But it also has rise in the fashion-athleisure ranks, thanks to the variety of styles that can be worn all day as tops—whether paired with a midi skirt and flats or cropped jeans and a blazer.

Our top pick for an overall great sports bras, Alo's Wellness Bra can be layered or worn solo and is ... [+] best for medium-impact activities.

According to Jessica Evans, a California-based certified boxing coach and FightCamp trainer, the wear-it-everywhere sports bra is a look you don’t have to be fitness buff to pull off. “Honestly, you kind of see it everywhere,” she says. “It’s in fashion; it’s walking into the supermarket or coffee shop.”

And the latest designs are so comfortable, especially in hot weather, you won’t want to relegate them to just your spin class or HIIT session. “Athleisure has definitely provided a world of options where you don’t have to compromise style for functionality—you can commit to your workouts and look stylish while doing so,” says Amy Jordan, a Los Angeles-based pilates specialist and WundaCore founder.

Here, 10 expert-vetted options, from fashion statements to fitness staples for every body type, workout need and budget.

Alo Yoga’s sports bra collection is a favorite on social feeds like TikTok for a reason. “These bras are beautiful and fun,” says Mar Soraparu, who heads up wellness at the membership club Biân Chicago. “They have great styles and cuts,” she says, adding that the ribbed performance jersey fabric is soft to the touch but strong enough for medium-impact support (Alo’s in-house team tests every piece for durability). Take note: Reviewers recommend sizing down for flexible compression.

Nearly all of Patagonia’s line uses recycled materials, and the full molded-foam panel on the Wild Trails sports bra makes it an excellent choice for high impact activities. “This is a great supportive sports bra,” says boxer and fitness trainer Jessica Evans, noting that women often have to double-up on sports bras to find the right amount of support for ultra-active sports, “but not with this one.” 

Victoria’s Secret is experiencing a brand renaissance in the fitness space, and its streamlined basics offer a hybrid take on the tank and the sports bra. This strappy, light impact version also has removable pads for a customized fit. 

“Fabletics sports bras are wonderful and affordable, and their sizing is appropriate for the smallest to largest of chest sizes,” says Soraporu. This particular model has thousands of high reviews for its hidden cell phone pocket that turns the racerback a multi-functional element that keeps runners light on their feet. Evans also likes Gymshark’s Adapt Animal Seamless Sports Bra for running stairs. “It also has thicker straps, so it offers support and has cup inserts you can leave in or take out.” 

With sizing up to an E cup, Lululemon’s sports bras are designed for activities like aerobics and running. “They have the greatest supportive bras for larger chests that are also beautiful,” says Soraparu. The bonded under-band won’t budge and the hook and eye closure is designed to lie flat to create an easy experience when pulling it on and off, and breathable cups are engineered to soften bounce. 

Beyond Yoga’s bestselling design provides a balanced mix of support and seamless coverage. “Before children, I wore these for any workout as a smaller-chested woman,” Soraparu shares. “These built-in bra crop tanks are so comfortable, perfect for any class and can be worn for errands, walking or even out socializing if paired with fun casual pieces.” 

In a range of finishes from faux crocodile skin to high-shine spandex, Carbon38 delivers a surprisingly stylish take on support. “I reach for this one at least once a week,” Jordan says noting that this design is extremely comfortable, smooth under clothes and doesn’t cut into skin. It’s part of the brand’s Hourglass collection, which is made to be sculpting, secure and flattering to the body. 

Target’s in-house line has attracted pros for its cost-effective designs. “These sports bras range from $13-$16 and really are great,” says Evans. “They have basic colors to match anything you need, have a nice cut that is flattering and they are comfortable.” Part of the appeal is a seamless fit, which reviews mention creates a smooth look under clothes. 

Kindred Bravely takes the guesswork out of activewear for new moms. “Whether you are a nursing mother or not, this is my absolute favorite piece,” says Soraparu. “It is well-fitting and perfectly supportive for any activity—and affordable.” Plus, for complete convenience, “it also can be purchased on Amazon.”

Port De Bras, a female-founded brand named after classical ballerina arm movements, delivers high-design pieces that function in every fitness category. “This bra will stop traffic in the studio or on the street,” says Jordan of the elegant and asymmetrical Swan Top. It’s made from a first-of-its-kind biodegradable polyamide fabric—stitched with smart yarn fibers that aim to improve thermo-regulation and circulation.

A good sports bras is crucial for a great workout and there are more options than ever on the market. To help you decide which is best for your needs, we tapped a range of experts, including Mar Soraparu, a partner at the wellness fitness club BIÂN Chicago, Amy Jordan, a pilates specialist and WundaCore founder, and Jessica Evans, a certified USA Boxing Coach and FightCamp trainer. Here’s what to look for: