When we feel our best, we perform our best. So, finding a sports bra that provides support and makes us feel our most confident is paramount.
Wearing an ill-fitting or poorly supportive design can cause breast damage and discomfort, which is why you need one that offers superior support and minimises bounce, says sports physiotherapist Dr Deirdre McGhee from Breast Research Australia.
“The type of sports bra you need depends on your age, breast size and the activity you’re doing,” she says. So look at increasing the level of support as you age, if your breast size increases or if you up the intensity of your exercise.
Not all sports bras are created equal, which is why we’ve rounded up the best sports bras available in New Zealand for various bust shapes, cup sizes, body shapes and workout routines.
Shop the best sports bras NZ
01
Puma PWRbreathe Run Bra
$100 at Puma
Best for: Active exercisers wanting to minimise bounce
Upgrade your running and high-impact workouts with this sports bra from Puma, designed to offer compressive support. Crafted from breathable fabric, it efficiently wicks away moisture, keeping sweat at bay. Its flattering design complements your natural curves, making it an ideal addition to your activewear wardrobe.
Sizes: XS – XL
Available at:
02
Strappy Sports Crop
$34.99 at Cotton On
Best for: Those seeking an affordable, everyday sports bra
This wallet-friendly workout crop provides moisture-wicking comfort for your gym sessions. A stylish cross-back strap design makes it perfect to wear under singlets. The sports bra comes in more than 20 fashionable colours, so it’s worth stocking up.
Sizes: 2XS – 5XL
03
Ditsy Daisy Sports Bra
$110 at Lorna Jane
Best for: The Sunday morning Pilates-to-coffee pipeline
Some activewear simply needs to be seen and this daisy-printed number certainly fits that bill. Made from a stretchy, sweat-wicking fabric and featuring adjustable straps and a compressive hem, it’s strong enough to hold up to a yoga or Pilates workout. But the print and strap details also make it extremely brunch-worthy – no sweating required, if that’s not your thing.
Sizes: XXS – XXL
04
Like a Cloud Ribbed Longline Bra
from $74 – $99 at Lululemon
Best for: Hot yoga enthusiasts
This Lululemon sports bra is your hot yoga class staple. It boasts sweat-wicking and quick-drying fabric, while its moulded foam cups provide comfort and support. It’s suitable for everyday wear, and you can choose from various colours in the bra’s supple, rib-textured fabric.
Sizes: 6 – 18
05
NB Define Train Bra
$90 from New Balance
Best for: Fitness enthusiasts seeking a secure fit and mould
Achieve the perfect balance of modesty and performance with this classic sports bra. It offers compression support for a no-bounce fit and is a great sports bra for bigger busts. It’ll ensure comfort during your cycling and boxing sessions, and its cross-back style, clean seams, and the moisture-wicking fabric make it the ideal foundation for your workout attire.
Sizes: XS – L
06
Twist Tank with Shelf Bra
$85 from LSKD
Best for: When you need a little more coverage from your sports bra
A cropped bra is all very well and good, but sometimes you want a little more length over the tum. A long-line tank/ sports bra hybrid is the way to go. This Black Twist Performance Tank from LSKD is supportive thanks to thanks to the inbuilt shelf bra and the brand’s signature buttery-soft Zephyr fabric that fits like a second skin. The adjustable straps mean the fit can be customised to your personal preference.
Sizes: 2XS – 3XL
How do I choose a good quality sports bra?
The best quality sports bras typically offer a combination of comfort, support, breathability, and durability. If you sweat easily, check the fabric is moisture-wicking and quick drying, and those with a bigger bust should look to well-constructed compression bras for added support.
These days, most sports bras are made from long-wearing, high-performance materials designed for sport. You’ll find they last longer if you wash them on a hand cycle in the washing machine.
Are sports bras better for your breasts?
Yes, sports bras are designed to provide optimal support and minimise movement during physical activity, which can help prevent damage to breast tissue. According to studies, wearing a sports bra reduces breast pain for women during exercise, regardless of breast size.
Is it okay to wear a sports bra all the time?
While sports bras are designed for physical activity, wearing them for everyday use is generally okay if they are comfortable fit for all-day use without compromising circulation.
Do you wear a normal bra with a sports bra?
You do not need to wear a normal bra under a sports bra. Sports bras are designed to provide adequate support and comfort during physical activity. Wearing a regular bra underneath could cause discomfort or chaffing.
Make sure you have all the best accessories for your workout, like these resistance bands,
