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14 Best Zip-Front Sports Bras To Keep Breasts Supported During High-Impact Workouts, Per Reviews

Because taking off your sweaty gym clothes shouldn’t be its own workout.

By Jasmine Gomez, Kristin Canning and Josey Murray
zip front sports bras
Christine Giordano

There's probably nothing worse than trying to wrestle yourself out of a sweaty sports bra after you’ve already conquered a grueling workout. But that problem is a thing of the past with *drumroll please* the zip-front sports bra!

Thanks to a handy zipper right between the boobs, these are easy-on, easy-off no matter how sweaty you get. The amazing thing about this type of bra is that it can offer even more support than the over-your-head types. It’ll protect your boobs during even the most strenuous movement.

See some of the best zip-front sports bras below:

  • 1
    Padded Sports Bra

    Most Budget-Friendly

    Newlashua Padded Sports Bra

    $19 at Amazon
    Read more
  • 2
    Lounge Bra

    Best For Lounging

    Shefit Lounge Bra

    Read more
  • 3
    Motion Control Sports Bra

    Best For Reducing Movement

    Champion Motion Control Sports Bra

    Read more
  • 4
    Longline Crop Top Bra

    Best For Going Shirtless

    IHHCOXK Longline Crop Top Bra

    Read more
  • 5
    Post-Surgical Sports Support Bra

    Best Post-Surgical Sports Bra

    BRABIC Post-Surgical Sports Support Bra

    Read more

But, Kristen Hislop, a certified trainer and running coach, says it's important to switch up your sports bra every year. This accounts for material breakdown (the elastic in your sports bra can wear out), and any changes in boob size. "If you wore a 36C as a 20-year-old, your size has almost 100 percent changed by the time you are 30 and never mind 50 or 60!" she says. Take your measurements on an annual basis to make sure you are getting the right fit.

So, whether you need a front-close bra for your most intense high-impact workout or you just want another sports bra to lounge around in, these zip-front sports bras are the best of the best, according to reviews from people who have tried them.

1
Most Budget-Friendly

Newlashua Padded Sports Bra

Padded Sports Bra
1
Most Budget-Friendly

Newlashua Padded Sports Bra

$19 at Amazon
Credit: Amazon
Pros
  • Budget-friendly
  • Adjustable shoulder straps
Cons
  • Pads are not removable

Wire-free and made with four-way stretch fabric, this padded sports bra is ready for your next workout. With adjustable shoulder straps and three sets of clasps, it is customizable to your shape and your needs.

Rave Review: "This bra is very comfortable. I especially like the adjustable velcro straps. I have to practice getting the 'girls' zipped up, as I have never had a front zip bra before. Once I got it zipped up, (I wear DD) the thought of my bra did not cross my mind all day. It was just that comfortable. I am very pleased with the quality of the material and the sturdiness of the design. I have three more on order."

2
Best For Lounging

Shefit Lounge Bra

Lounge Bra
2
Best For Lounging

Shefit Lounge Bra

Credit: Shefit
Pros
  • Great for low-impact acitivity
  • Offers full coverage
Cons
  • May not be supportive enough for bigger busts

Still want the ease of the front-zip bra without needing all of that support? This sports bra is perfect for your yoga flow, stretch routine, or just lounging, while still offering you full coverage. Shefit is also one of Hislop's go-to brands for zip-front sports bras.

Rave Review: "Love this bra. I've purchased two lounge bras that are superior to any other bra I've ever owned. Lounging, working in the garden, doing daily chores, shopping, even hiking, this bra covers me well and comfortably."

3
Best For Reducing Movement

Champion Motion Control Sports Bra

Motion Control Sports Bra
3
Best For Reducing Movement

Champion Motion Control Sports Bra

Pros
  • Great at reducing boob bounce
  • Budget-friendly
Cons
  • Limited colors available

These cups are designed to reduce vertical, lateral, and front-to back-movement. I've never felt so understood!! Wick-away technology and a mesh neckline will keep you cool while you ease through even the toughest workout. Also, apparently it's good for horseback riding!

Rave Review: "I have been searching for a good sports bra for riding in that is not $80++. I have tried way more expensive sport bras that had no bounce control at all! I was pleasantly surprised by this bra and it’s super comfortable and easy to get into! Bonus, no uni-boob!"

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4
Best For Going Shirtless

IHHCOXK Longline Crop Top Bra

On Sale
Longline Crop Top Bra
4
Best For Going Shirtless

IHHCOXK Longline Crop Top Bra

Now 15% Off
Credit: Amazon
Pros
  • Doubles up as a crop top
  • Material is breathable
Cons
  • Tank top design is not ideal for those looking for a traditional sports bra

If you're a fan of just the sports bra look when you work out, then this one is for you. It's a zip-front bra and crop top all in one! Wow! The material is super breathable and suited for any sweaty workout.

Rave Review: "This design is genius! I love how it is longer than the normal sport bra, which gives a sleeker appearance. It stays in place when moving or high stretching. The material is sooooo comfortable, stretchable, and breathable. Back fat is held undetected. This bra pairs perfectly with backless or sleeveless tops. I also used it as a crop top paired with high waist jeans and a duster cardigan (perfect for busy moms and running errands)."

5
Best Post-Surgical Sports Bra

BRABIC Post-Surgical Sports Support Bra

Post-Surgical Sports Support Bra
5
Best Post-Surgical Sports Bra

BRABIC Post-Surgical Sports Support Bra

Now 38% Off
Pros
  • Great for post-surgery
  • Minimizes irritation
Cons
  • You may need to size up

Getting back to your workouts after a surgery, like a breast augmentation or reduction or a masectomy? This bra is designed to be gentle, yet supportive for your post-surgical journey. Its criss-cross back design also helps alleviate back pain, while helping you achieve better posture. Even if you haven't recently had any surgery, you'll love how supportive this zip-front bra is.

Rave Review: "This is an incredibly comfortable and well-considered product. Used mine for an explant with drains, so the padded sides were PERFECT to accommodate sensitive drain placement. Bought it in size L—soft silky fabric, sits low on the ribs, and doesn’t irritate incisions."

6
Best For Newbies

Knix Catalyst Sports Bra

Catalyst Sports Bra
6
Best For Newbies

Knix Catalyst Sports Bra

Credit: Knix
Pros
  • Can handle high-impact activity
  • Comes with adjustable features
Cons
  • On the pricier side

This front-zip bra has a simple design that is perfect for those new to this type. It's Knix's take on their classic sports bra, just easier to put on. With high-impact support and adjustable features, it'll make you fall in love with front-zip sports bras.

Rave Review: "I struggle to get a regular sports bra on and off in the best of times, but two months postpartum? Forget it. Love the ease of getting this sports bra on and off so I can get back to working out comfortably. Also great support, quality, and fit."

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7
Best High Impact Bra

Yvette Strappy Sports Bra

On Sale
Strappy Sports Bra
7
Best High Impact Bra

Yvette Strappy Sports Bra

Pros
  • Cute criss-cross design
  • Mesh paneling for breathability
Cons
  • Only two color options available

If you like wearing your sports bras as tops, you'll def love showing this full-coverage one off, thanks to its ultra-cute strappy criss-cross design in the back. This is also great for people prone to boob sweat, since it features mesh paneling below the breasts for more breathability.

Rave Review: "This is absolutely the most supportive exercise bra that I have. It actually works as a minimizer by flattening and distributing. That is exactly what keeps the girls very close to the chest and keeps everything from moving."

8
Best With Removable Cups

Jockey Seam-Free Bra

Seam-Free Bra
8
Best With Removable Cups

Jockey Seam-Free Bra

Pros
  • Comes with removable cups
  • Made with thicker straps for more support
Cons
  • Customers say it's not the best for high-impact activity

Removable cups mean you can rock the padded look (or not) in this classic bra from Jockey. Thick straps and a breathable racerback offer plenty of support for any workout.

Rave Review: "I wanted something I didn't have to wrestle out of that would provide a bit of support for low impact workouts like hiking, so that I don't sweat on my regular nice bras. This fit the bill quite well. It's as easy to get into as a jacket. Just unzip the front and put your arms in. Then pull the sides together and zip. The zipper is easy to fasten and stays up without a problem."

9
Best For Bigger Breasts

Lululemon Enlite Front-Zip Bra

Enlite Front-Zip Bra
9
Best For Bigger Breasts

Lululemon Enlite Front-Zip Bra

Pros
  • Sweat-wicking
  • Very supportive
Cons
  • Only available in two colors

Okay, so the price does pack quite a punch, but this isn't just any sports bra. It's the ultimate running companion. This bra is made from Lulu's "Ultralu" fabric, which is supportive and complements your natural shape, in addition to being breathable, stretchy, and sweat-wicking. Countless reviewers say it was supportive of their bigger busts.

Rave review: "Great support for active women with large breasts. Plain and simple, the best support I’ve had and the distribution of weight is super appreciated. No more creating deeper divots in my shoulders."

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10
Best Customizable Fit

SHEFIT Ultimate Sports Bra

Ultimate Sports Bra
10
Best Customizable Fit

SHEFIT Ultimate Sports Bra

Now 20% Off
Pros
  • Inclusive of many sizes
  • Adjustable for personalized support
Cons
  • May feel bulky to some

This bra is meant to mold just to you. It is completely adjustable and offers the most personalized support you could imagine. Fit for sizes A through I, it is your boobs' newest BFF.

Rave Review: "The first time I wore this for a workout, I legitimately felt like my breasts no longer existed. MIRACLE!!! Burpees were no match for this thing. No bouncing boobies, shoulder pain... I LOVED being able to adjust the tightness based on what I was doing. PERFECT for an Orange Theory workout. I started with 1. A week later I have three. YES!!"

11
Best Bra For Smaller Breasts

CHJM Zip-Front Sports Bra

Zip-Front Sports Bra
11
Best Bra For Smaller Breasts

CHJM Zip-Front Sports Bra

Pros
  • Stretchy and soft
  • Many color options to choose from
Cons
  • May not be supportive enough for larger breasts

The shorter straps on this stretchy bra make it ideal for those with smaller busts. It's made from a nylon spandex blend that's jersey-like soft and supportive with a little give.

Rave Review: "The material is soft and comfortable. There are removable pads. I usually don't have good support from stretchy bras that don't have adjustable straps because I am a small person with a short back. However, these have nice, supportive short straps."

12
Best Design

Yvette Sports Enfold Zip Front

Enfold Zip Front
12
Best Design

Yvette Sports Enfold Zip Front

Now 30% Off
Pros
  • Stylish design
  • Made with mesh paneling to keep you cool
Cons
  • Molded cups aren't removable

All of the support and ease of a zip-front bra paired with the sleekest line design! It would be a shame to cover this one up. Plus, the mesh paneling will keep you cool during your workout! Wins all around!

Rave Review: "As soon as it was delivered I tried it on. It's the most relief I've had in weeks. No longer am I wincing from pain every time I put on a bra. Btw, I'm a 40D and the 2XL fit perfectly. I'll honestly probably buy another set soon just because they fit so well."

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13
Best Medium Impact Bra

Soma Medium Impact Bra

Medium Impact Bra
13
Best Medium Impact Bra

Soma Medium Impact Bra

Now 73% Off

Not only is this sports bra supportive, but it's also made with anti-odor yarns that wick sweat away and keep you fresh and cool. So if your workouts tend to get hot and sweaty no matter how low impact they are, this one's for you. The bra is designed to handle your more intense workouts too, so feel free to wear it anywhere and everywhere.

Rave review: "Love this sports bra! Perfectly holds everything into place during my workouts. The sizing suggestion was on point."

14
Best Bra With Sun Protection

Outdoor Voices Powerhouse Bra

Powerhouse Bra
14
Best Bra With Sun Protection

Outdoor Voices Powerhouse Bra

Pros
  • Built-in sun protection
  • Very supportive
Cons
  • Compressive feel may not be ideal for everyone

OV calls this their most supportive bra yet, so you know it's a good one. It comes with molded cups and is designed with sleek compression to handle even the most intense workouts. As a bonus, it features built-in UPF 50 protection, making it great for outdoor workouts, too.

Rave Review: "Running is my main activity so a sports bra with good support is essential. I have several sports OV bras. All are great for running, but I really love this model. The front zip as well as the hooks and eyes in the back ensure a great fit and maximum support. So well made."

How should I choose a zip-front sports bra?

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Ultimately, you should go with what feels best for you, but Hislop says there are some things you should consider.

Zipper

You want to ensure your zipper will hold up so that you're not throwing your precious dollars down the drain. "You want a quality zipper so that it stays up! The best zippers are labeled YKK (for the Japanese company Yoshida Kōgyō Kabushiki gaisha, the largest zipper manufacturer). A cheap zipper can become unzipped as you you workout which isn't only annoying, but can irritate your skin, says Hislop.

Fabric

When it comes to fabric, Hislop says manmade fibers are best. "You want a wicking material that will pull any sweat away from your skin," she explains. The band should also be smooth and you shouldn't feel any elastic directly on your skin.

Fit

You should make sure that the band fits securely around your body. You don't want anything to pour out, or on the other end, any gapping, as this will make the sports bra less supportive. If you are looking for extra support, Hislop recommends opting for something with adjustable straps. "More lift equals better support," she says.

Type Of Workout

You really do need different bras for your different workouts, Hislop says. For example, you may need a less supportive bra for yoga than you would for running and high intensity workouts. But the more adjustable the bra is (in its straps for example), the more workout versatility it has, too.

Headshot of Jasmine Gomez
Jasmine Gomez
Commerce Editor

Jasmine Gomez is the Commerce Editor at Women’s Health, where she cover the best product recommendations across beauty, health, lifestyle, fitness, and more. When she's not shopping for a living, she enjoys karaoke and dining out more than she cares to admit. Follow her @JazzeGomez.  

Headshot of Kristin Canning
Kristin Canning is the features director at Women's Health, where she assigns, edits and reports long-form features on emerging health research and technology, women's health conditions, psychology, sexuality, mental health, reproductive justice, wellness entrepreneurs, women athletes, and the intersection of health, fitness, and culture for both the magazine and the website. She's worked in health media for seven years, holding prior positions at Health, SELF, and Men's Health. When she's not writing and editing, you can find her running, hiking, biking, dancing, listening to podcasts, or planning her next outdoor adventure.
Headshot of Josey Murray
Josey Murray is the editorial fellow at Women's Health. She's passionate about storytelling, sustainable wellness, and the plant-based lifestyle. When she's not writing, she loves learning about mushrooms and discovering new wellness products.
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