10 Best Sports Bras in the Philippines 2026 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Fitness Coach

Compression sports bras help create stability in the chest area by pressing down against the chest wall, which might create problems when used for high-impact exercises. Several compression sports bras may also have padding. Therefore, these bras are suitable for low to medium-impact workouts such as yoga and pilates. These are also ideal for those with smaller cup sizes.

For your medium to high-impact exercises, it is best to use encapsulation sports bras. These are like your everyday bras but are made with more support. Each breast has an individual cup, and it usually has underwires to keep it in place. 

Although sports bras generally fall into either category, some take it to the next level by combining the two. A hybrid or compression-encapsulation sports bra is meant for high-impact activities. Not only do they have pads and a built-in underwire, but the fabric also compresses inward, which leads to a great level of support. This is also the best option for those with cup sizes C, D, or bigger.

When soaked sports bras rub against your skin, it may distract you and affect your performance. If this is what you’re experiencing, opt for a sports bra that contains a greater ratio of polyester and nylon. 

They are known for being versatile, lightweight, durable, easy to wash, and resistant to wrinkling. These stiffer fabrics are known to be quick-drying and moisture-wicking, which prevents the icky and moist feeling.

Cotton is known to be a soft and breathable fabric. However, sports bras that are composed of predominantly cotton is not recommended as it keeps moisture. Instead, get a sports bra that has a small percentage of cotton if you want something on the soft side that keeps cool. 

Spandex and elastane are essentially the same fabric and can be used interchangeably, while Lycra is a brand name for this fabric. They are exceptionally stretchy and ideal for athletic wear, especially sports bras. They provide ease of movement during your workouts. 

This material is form-fitting and usually combined with the sturdier polyester fabric for the right amount of stretch and support. Like nylon and polyester, they are also moisture-wicking and quick-drying!

A bra's support starts with the band, so it's a must for you to make sure that it snugly sits around your rib cage and not pushing against your breast tissue. Experts say the best fit is when two fingers can fit between your rib cage and the band.

A great way to check this is by raising your hands over your head and turning sideways. Look at your reflection in a mirror and check if the band is higher in the back or if your breasts are poking out below. If this happens, chances are, your bra is too big. Adjusting the hook closure can help.

While several shops are more upfront in terms of bust and cup size, some of them mark sizes based on categories such as extra small, small, medium, large, and extra-large. Shops that follow the latter more often than not provide a size chart to see the range of sizes. One thing to be mindful of is not to downsize a sports bra.

Make sure that your breasts are fully contained and centered in the cups - and that they are completely covered. Try scooping your breasts into them and carefully centering them. The cups are too big if there are wrinkles or gaps in the fabric. But if your breasts are spilling outside of the bra, then the cups are too small.

When you wear your sports bra often, the fabric may loosen and get worn out easily. Sports equipment and clothing are a worthy investment, but if you want to get a sports bra that will last long, it is best to get one with adjustable straps and a bra hook.

Even if the fabric in the sports bra softens up in time and with constant use, the adjustable straps and bra hook will give it a new lease on life. Most of all, you can customize the fitting depending on your desired support and the intensity of your workouts.

The most common back strap style is racerback, which resembles a T or Y shape. There are also full-back sports bras. These two styles offer the best support, so they are perfect for medium to high-impact workouts and for those with bigger cup sizes. 

If you want a more dainty or quirky style, you may go for a sports bra that is strappy or with a cross-back design. These are good options for those who prefer thinner straps. Some also have a one-sided strap for a unique look. However, thinner straps are usually more suited for low to medium-impact exercises. 

Another thing to take note of is the sports bra’s neckline. Scoop or rounded necklines can vary in terms of height or positioning. The higher the neckline is, the greater support it gives. Necklines that are lower or have a V shape are generally for low-impact exercises. But these can also depend on the fabric and type.

While most sports bras either have a back closure or a solid fabric, others have a zipper front feature. They can be considered a lifesaver since a common problem amongst women is putting on and removing a sports bra. With a zipper closure, you will have an easier time!

Sports bras and other workout apparel that have plain, muted, and neutral colors are considered staple pieces. An advantage of having monochromes pieces is that you can mix and match them however you like. Some of them may have minimal accents in the bands or straps for a pop of color.

If you want to express yourself, go for bolder patterns or at least bright colors for single-colored sports bras. They are statement pieces that will lighten your mood and may help you power through a rigorous workout. Besides, who wouldn’t get giddy if you see yourself rocking a colorful sports bra while nailing every rep?