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Sorry to be dramatic, but there is something diabolical about an uncomfortable sports bra.
Photography: Ryan Segedi. Wardrobe styling: Kat Thomas. Hair: Chika Nishiyama. Makeup: Monica Alvarez.
On top of ruining your workout, it can ruin your entire day.
Finding a sports bra thats up to the task can feel like digging for a needle in a haystack.
For more on how we select our winners and why we love each one, keep reading.
Original photos taken by Ryan Segedi for SELF’s Activewear Awards
Jump to the winners.
to nominate their favorite sports bras of all time.
The piece must still be available for purchase.
Simultaneously, we revisited the splashiest new releases from the past year.
We also did some additional research: Is the product well-reviewed online?
Is it available in a wide range of sizes?
Does it suit multiple body types?
Is it a reasonable price?
As we were doing this, we set out to find our first-ever Readers Choice Award winner.
Original photos taken by Ryan Segedi for SELF’s Activewear Awards
We sent a survey to SELF readers and followers, asking them to nominate their picks.
You won’t feel constrained or restricted while getting the coverage and support that you need.
Available in band sizes 3244 and cup sizes BFF.
Original photos taken by Ryan Segedi for SELF’s Activewear Awards
The ThirdLove Kinetic adjustable sports bra isnt thatits very supportive without feeling extremely tight and heavy.
I wear this for more intense lifting sessions, boot-camp-style classes, and HIIT.
Available in band sizes 3244 and cup sizes AH.
A soft-knit inner lining allows your boobs to breathe freely while keeping them covered.
I also love the lengthit can give the look of a crop toporsports bra.
Available in sizes L7X.
One judge said:I have four of these bras because I love them so much.
I love NOT feeling distracted by any rubbing or tight contact with my skin for a change.
Its perfect for when youre craving an extra-comfy workout and just need some casual support.
Available in sizes XS3XL.
Its got mesh details, straps that adjust in the front, and a sleek V-neck.
One judge said:I had a double mastectomy four years ago.
Its a great bra to lift in, but I find myself running and boxing in it as well.
Available in sizes XS2XL.
One judge said:It’s very compressive, so it keeps my chest in place during a workout.
Available in sizes XXS3X (cup sizes AC and DDD).
If you do want to wear a bra, the Storq Body bra is your most comfortable bet.
One judge said:In my fourth month of pregnancy, my boobs grew two cup sizes seemingly overnight.
This Storq bra basically solved all of my problems.
I wear it under sweaters to work and when I do prenatal yoga.
Its stretch is generous enough to grow with me and the material feels like butter.
I can totally see myself sleeping in this once this baby is here.
Available in sizes XS4XL.
I used to double up on brasand I’ve tried other brandsbut SheFit is my savior.
Ive even worn it as swimwear!
Its supportive, wicking, infinitely adjustable, and LASTS.
I am a soccer referee, and this bra keeps my breasts immobile while sprinting and jogging.
I do not need to wear two bras anymore to deal with high-impact workouts.
(My size is 36DDD.)
I also do some running and take boxing fitness classes.
This is a great bra for boxing, and I can do burgers without pain!
Its also super adjustable.
This is the best bra I have ever used.
Its perfect for running and any high-intensity activity.
It holds the girls down, and for someone with DD/DDD breasts, its a godsend!
Available in sizes XSmall-6Luxe (bust sizes 2955" and cup sizes AI).
Photography:Ryan SegediWardrobe styling:Kat ThomasHair:Chika NishiyamaMakeup:Monica Alvarez