We could talk for days about what gear to wear in hot weather or the best shoes on the market today—but if you don't have a well-fitting sports bra, your run will be no fun. But finding the right bra can be difficult, especially if you have a larger, heavier chest.
The more supportive a bra is, the better it is for running, but snug sports bras can be a pain to get on and off, especially when you're covered in post-run sweat. Zipper-front bras make it easy to take your bra on and off without sacrificing the high level of support you need for running. They're also great for showing off a bit of cleavage or flattering your silhouette more than the average sports bra for big chests (not to mention the accessibility factor if you struggle to put your arms over your head or around your back).
We found the best zip-front sports bras that are secure, cute, and, most importantly, easy to rip off as soon as you're done with that jog. Check out our top picks to keep you comfortable and bounce-free.
More From Runner's World
The 8 Best Zip Front Sports Bras of 2023
How to Choose
There are a few key styles designers use to make your bra snug, supportive, and bounce-free. Here are the most common types of sports bras with zippers.
Underwire
Though more common in T-shirt or push-up bras, underwires are sometimes used for support in sports bras. The wire is threaded underneath each breast, providing a supportive cup shape. While some people find that they can constrict movement a bit, they tend to work well for large breasts, as they work overtime to prevent bouncing, making them a great choice for high-impact workouts.
Molded Cups
Most sports bras have some sort of cup to them, but a molded cup is generally not removable and helps shape, support, and prevent bouncing. If you aren't keen on the feeling of an underwire or high levels of compression, this may help you feel both comfortable and supported.
Compression
Compression is present in just about every sports bra, though some more than others. It is highly effective in eliminating bounce as it presses your breasts into your body, making it a bit flatter, tighter, and locked in. Depending on personal preference and your build, you may prefer a higher compression bra, or a light compression, but the tighter you go, the more support it gives—and the better it is for preserving the elasticity of your breast tissue in the long run.
How We Selected
We know it's tough to shop online for sports bras, so we went to the source to find which bras customers loved. We read through reviews on sites like Amazon to determine which bras had the best fit, comfort, and support. To broaden our research, we also looked to reviews from trusted brands like Women's Health, and Cosmopolitan to find the best zip-front sports bras of 2023.
Athleta Ultimate Zip Front Bra D-DD
Pros
- Supportive for large chests
- Great for high intensity workouts
Cons
- Not for cup sizes under D
Key Specs
| Sizes | XXS–XL |
|---|---|
| Colors | 5 |
This bra was designed to keep larger chests tamed without breaking a sweat putting it on. It is designed specifically for cup sizes D to DD and comes in sizes XXS to XL, which means it fits women of most sizes. While Athleta designates it as a medium-impact bra, they state that it is made to hold up in high-intensity activities like running and HIIT.
Victorias Secret Knockout Maximum Support Front-Close Sport Bra
Victorias Secret Knockout Maximum Support Front-Close Sport Bra
Pros
- Cute, simple design
- Comfortable, padded underwire
Cons
- Not the most supportive on the list
Key Specs
| Sizes | 32B to 40F |
|---|---|
| Colors | 15 |
Victoria’s Secret hit the nail on the head with both a wide range of sizing (32B to 40 DDD), and 16 color options for this bra. This front-zip option has a super soft, four-way-stretch fabric that’s comfortable on the skin and allows you to move without restriction. The support comes from slight compression and a padded underwire that prevents movement without digging into your ribs.
Lululemon Enlite Bra Zip Front High Support
Lululemon Enlite Bra Zip Front High Support
Pros
- Stretchy, smooth material
- Modest design compared to others
Cons
- Expensive
Key Specs
| Sizes | 30-40, A-DDD |
|---|---|
| Colors | 5 |
While $100 is admittedly a lot for a sports bra, we think this one is worth it. It comes in four neutral colors and it ranges in size from a 34A to a 40 DD. It's designed specifically as a running bra, so you know that it'll hold up in any high-intensity training session. Plus it uses a soft and smooth four-way-stretch fabric that contains lycra for shape retention over time.
IHHCOXK Longline Zip Front Sports Bra
IHHCOXK Longline Zip Front Sports Bra
Pros
- Cute design
- Breathable material
Cons
- Runs small
Key Specs
| Sizes | S–3X |
|---|---|
| Colors | 6 |
For days when you don’t feel like layering up, this crop top bra can be worn on its own—and it’s cute. It comes in six different colors and sizes small to 3X. The material is breathable and supportive, and it gives you a snatched waist without feeling constrictive. It’s the perfect zipper top to wear to the gym on those warmer days.
SheFit Ultimate Sports Bra
SheFit Ultimate Sports Bra
Pros
- Very adjustable fit
- Inclusive size range
Cons
- Not the most attractive design
Key Specs
| Sizes | XS–6X |
|---|---|
| Colors | 10 |
This bra was designed with customizability in mind. They use a patented “zip, cinch, lift” technique that helps you get the right fit every time, and adjust it based on the impact of your exercise. It comes in four neutral and pastel colors and five limited-edition patterns. Sizes range from an A cup up to an I, which makes it our most size-inclusive option on the list.
Jockey Zip Front Seam Free Bra
Pros
- Affordable
- Removable cups
Cons
- Best for smaller cups
Key Specs
| Sizes | S–XL |
|---|---|
| Colors | 8 |
Jockey knows that sometimes simplest is best, and that certainly is the case for this seamless zip front. This sports bra comes in six neutral colors and sizes small to extra large, and it has removable cups, which is great if you prefer a less padded feel. It has thick straps and a breathable racerback design that helps to keep you cool, and it's super affordable at only $25.
Knix Catalyst Front Zip Sports Bra
Pros
- Thick, adjustable straps
- Very supportive
Cons
- Expensive
Key Specs
| Sizes | 0–5 |
|---|---|
| Colors | 8 |
This sports bra has a simple, sleek design that lays flat under clothing and provides incredible support even in high-impact activities. It has a cross-back design that helps keep the adjustable straps snug and comfortable, and while it may feel a bit tight at first, it is designed to mold to your body, and loosen slightly upon the first wear and wash.
Champion Motion Control Zip Sports Bra
Champion Motion Control Zip Sports Bra
Pros
- Affordable
- Ventilated sides keep you cool
Cons
- Not supportive enough for large chests
Key Specs
| Sizes | 34B–42DDD |
|---|---|
| Colors | 4 |
If you find yourself overheating in bras, you may want to opt for an option with ventilation. This front-zip sports bra features mesh fabric under the armpits, which helps keep you cool while still providing support through smoothing cups, and a combo of regular and racerback straps to prevent any bouncing or movement.
Before joining Runner's World, Gabrielle Hondorp spent 6 years in running retail (she has tested top gear from shoes, to watches, to rain jackets which has expanded her expertise—and her closets); she specializes in health and wellness, and is an expert on running gear from head-to-toe. Gabi began her journalism career as a Digital Editorial Fellow for Runner’s World and Bicycling Magazine, and has since advanced to a Runner's World Editor specializing in commerce. She has a double degree in English and Media and Communication from Muhlenberg College where she also ran cross country and track.
