Bra Fit Tips · Lifestyle ·

How to Choose the Right Sports Bra for Your 2026 Fitness Goals

A new year often brings renewed motivation—whether that means getting back into movement, starting a new workout routine, or simply feeling more supported in your everyday life.

But before setting goals or increasing intensity, there’s one essential piece that often gets overlooked: your sports bra.

The right sports bra isn’t just about comfort—it plays a crucial role in support, performance, and long-term breast health. Here’s how to choose the right one for your 2026 fitness goals.

Why the Right Sports Bra Matters
Breasts move in multiple directions during activity, and without proper support, that movement can lead to discomfort, pain, and even long-term tissue damage. Wearing the wrong sports bra can also affect posture, breathing, and overall performance.
A properly fitted sports bra should:
  • minimize movement
  • distribute weight evenly
  • feel secure without restriction
  • allow you to move confidently
Support isn’t optional—it’s essential.

Step 1: Identify Your Activity Level

Not all workouts require the same level of support. Choosing the right sports bra starts with understanding how you move.

Low-Impact Activities

Examples: yoga, Pilates, walking, stretching
Support level: Light to medium

Look for bras that offer gentle compression, flexibility, and comfort without feeling restrictive.

Medium-Impact Activities

Examples: cycling, strength training, hiking
Support level: Medium

You’ll want a balance of compression and structure to control movement while allowing mobility.

High-Impact Activities

Examples: running, HIIT, cardio classes
Support level: High

High-impact sports bras should offer maximum support through strong bands, encapsulation, and reinforced construction.

Step 2: Know Your True Size
One of the most common issues we see is women wearing sports bras that are too loose in the band or too small in the cup. A sports bra should fit just as precisely as an everyday bra.

A proper fit means:
  • the band feels snug and supportive
  • straps stay in place without digging
  • breasts are fully contained
  • there’s no bouncing, spillage, or discomfort

If your sports bra rides up, causes chafing, or still allows excessive movement, it’s likely the wrong size or style.


Step 3: Choose the Right Support Style

There are two primary sports bra constructions:

Compression

  • Presses the breasts close to the body
  • Best for smaller busts and low-impact activity

Encapsulation

  • Supports each breast individually
  • Ideal for fuller busts and higher-impact workouts

Many high-performance sports bras combine both for maximum support.

Step 4: Don’t Ignore Comfort Details

Support should never come at the expense of comfort. Look for:
  • breathable fabrics
  • moisture-wicking materials
  • smooth seams
  • wide, supportive bands
  • adjustable straps

If it’s uncomfortable in the fitting room, it won’t feel better mid-workout.


Step 5: Replace Worn-Out Sports Bras

Sports bras work hard—and they wear out faster than everyday bras.

Signs it’s time to replace yours:
  • loss of elasticity
  • stretched-out band
  • thinning fabric
  • reduced support
  • discomfort during movement

For active lifestyles, most sports bras should be replaced every 6–12 months depending on wear.


Expert Tip: Get a Professional Sports Bra Fitting

Every body moves differently, and there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. A professional fitting helps you find the right size, support level, and style for your body and your goals.

In 2026, we’re placing a stronger emphasis on sports bra education and fittings—because the right support makes every workout feel better.

Start 2026 Supported

Your fitness goals deserve the right foundation. Whether you’re starting fresh or refining your routine, a properly fitted sports bra can make all the difference.

Visit us in-store or book a fitting to find your perfect sports bra for 2026.
Support your goals. Support your body.

Shop Sports Bras →

Back to Blog