The 17 Best High-Neck Sports Bras of 2023 for Every Jump, Sprint, and Bend

Dotdash Meredith and Yahoo Inc. may earn commission or revenue on some items through the links below.

Girlfriend Collective’s Topanga Halter Bra is supportive and adjustable

<p>Getty Images</p>

Getty Images

Reviewed by Heather Black, CPTFact checked by Rich Scherr

A high-neck sports bra offers the ideal combination of style, fit, and support. Whether you’re searching for more coverage during workouts or a new addition to your wardrobe, there are dozens of high-neck styles to choose from.

When shopping for a high-neck sports bra, consider your workout routine. “Are you going to wear this for running? Light workouts? Yoga? Daily wear? The activity type will dictate how compressive and supportive the bra is,” Ellyn Ferriter, certified personal trainer and group fitness instructor at Lifetime, says. The bra should also fit well, without any pinching, slipping, or gaping, and provide comfortable, full-cup coverage and separation.

To help you find the right high-neck sports bra, we researched dozens of options on the market and evaluated them based on support level, straps, fit, material, price, and more.

Based on our research, here are the best high-neck sports bras on the market.

Best Overall: Girlfriend Collective Topanga Halter Bra

Buy at Girlfriend.com

Buy at Nordstrom.com

Pros

  • Adjustable straps

  • Wide range of sizes

  • Made with recycled materials

Cons

  • Designed for low-impact workouts

Girlfriend Collective’s Topanga Bra is our best overall pick because it’s comfortable, supportive, and can double as a crop top. The Topanga’s streamlined halter cut transitions to adjustable criss-cross straps for a customizable fit. With the help of buttery-soft, compressive material and a band that stays put, it has enough coverage and support for activities like yoga and Pilates.

The supple, anti-odor fabric—sustainably made from plastic bottles and spandex—is moisture-wicking, absorbent, and fast-drying, so you can go from the gym to running errands seamlessly. We love that it comes in seven earthy and neutral hues that go with anything. Choose from 11 sizes, ranging from XXS to 6XL, and maybe even pick up the matching Compressive High-Rise Legging to complete the ensemble.

What the Experts Say: “I love the comfort and support of the Topanga sports bra. It’s thick, sustainably made, and can even double as a top!” says Jessica Murtaugh, NASM-CPT and CNC, Verywell Fit commerce writer.

Plus, when this versatile piece finally does wear out, it’s easy to send it back for store credit through the company’s ReGirlfriend textile recycling program. Just note that this bra is designed for low-impact exercise, so runners may need more compression.

Price at time of publication: $50

Key Specs:
Sizes: XXS to 6X | Support: Light | Adjustable: Yes | Padding: None (lined) | Material: Recycled plastic bottles, spandex | Care: Machine wash cold, line dry flat

Best Budget: CRZ Yoga Ulti-Dry High Neck Longline Sports Bra

Buy at Amazon.com

Pros

  • Removable cups

  • Four-way stretch

  • Sweat-wicking fabric

Cons

  • Straps aren’t adjustable

If you’re on a budget, we recommend this medium-support racerback bra from CRZ YOGA. The quick-drying fabric wicks moisture away from the skin, even during sweaty workouts. And supportive compression holds strong and moves with you, thanks to a four-way stretch.

The long-line length adds additional coverage in front, making it an easy, wear-alone piece. And removable pads give you just the amount of desired modesty and additional support. Like some of our other picks with a higher price point, we love that this bra has many matching bottoms available.

However, note that this bra only comes in three colors and five sizes. Also, the straps aren’t adjustable.

Price at time of publication: $24

Key Specs:
Sizes: XS to XL | Support: Medium | Adjustable: No | Padding: Removable cups | Material: Polyester, elastane, cotton | Care: Machine wash cold, line or tumble dry low

Best High Impact: New Balance Shape Shield Crop Bra

Buy at Amazon.com

Buy at Newbalance.com

Pros

  • Comes in two fits and five sizes

  • Full front and back coverage

  • Made with recycled materials

Cons

  • Straps aren’t adjustable

If you’re about to tackle an intense, high-impact workout, we recommend New Balance’s Shape Shield Crop Bra. It provides ultimate bounce control through its full-coverage cut, supportive band, and strong compression. With a unique dual-strap design, this bra holds breasts snug to the chest during every box jump, burpee, or sprint. Removable cups help pad and separate to create a sleek silhouette.

We love that this bra features fast-drying fabric that wicks moisture away, with a small cutout in the back for added ventilation. Although it’s only available in a couple of colors and doesn’t have adjustable straps, the Shape Shield comes in a wide range of sizes and fits. We also like that it’s made with recycled material.

Price at time of publication: $50

Key Specs:
Sizes: XS through 3X | Support: High | Adjustable: No | Padding: Removable cups | Material: Recycled polyester, spandex | Care: Machine wash cold, line dry

Related: The Best High Impact Sports Bras of 2023 for Any Workout

Best Medium Impact: Nike Dri Fit Swoosh Medium-Support High-Neck Sports Bra

Buy at Dickssportinggoods.com

Buy at Nike.com

Pros

  • Comes in a wide range of sizes

  • Breathable perforations

  • Sleek, stylish design

Cons

  • Straps aren’t adjustable

Nike’s Dri-FIT Swoosh High-Neck Sports Bra is our choice for the best medium-impact bra with compression that hugs the body for support during most activities. This bra is constructed with sweat-wicking, quick-drying fabric to keep you comfortable all day long. It also comes in six sizes, so it’s easy to find the right fit.

The front keyhole and back laser perforation details are both stylish and functional, improving breathability and airflow while you sweat. And we love the wide, supportive straps on this racerback bra that cut down on bounce. But it only comes in three neutral colors.

Price at time of publication: $40

Key Specs:
Sizes: XS to 2XL | Support: Medium | Adjustable: No | Padding: None | Material: Polyester, spandex | Care: Machine wash cold, line dry

Best Low Impact: Lululemon Like a Cloud High-Neck Light Support Longline Bra

Buy at Shop.lululemon.com

Pros

  • Removable cups

  • Lightweight

  • Sleek, stylish design

Cons

  • Straps aren’t adjustable

  • Expensive

For a high-neck bra that feels light as air during lower-intensity moves, we recommend this Like a Cloud top from Lululemon. It’s designed to stretch and cover every bend or twist, plus wick away sweat, even during hot yoga. Crazy comfortable, with a contoured band line and removable cups, we love how this bra combines front coverage with a sleek, strappy back.

Since it has a longer line than some of our other picks, the Like a Cloud bra can also be worn as a top for errands and exercises. But it lacks color options and adjustable straps, plus it’s expensive. When it’s time to move on, Lululemon offers a trade-in quality guarantee and a recycling program for discounts when trading in gently-used merch. 

Price at time of publication: $68

Key Specs:
Sizes: 2 to 14 | Support: Light | Adjustable: No | Padding: Light, removable cups | Material: Nylon, elastane, polyester | Care: Machine wash cold with like colors, tumble dry low

Best Support: Nike Alpha UltraBreathe Sports Bra

Buy at Dickssportinggoods.com

Buy at Awin1.com

Pros

  • Adjustable straps and bands

  • Mesh overlay prevents bounce and spillage

  • Molded cups

Cons

  • Expensive

If you’re looking for a sports bra that offers some serious support, we recommend this one from Nike. We love the innovative design, which includes a band with two hook-and-eye closures, an overlay in the front, and adjustable straps. These details help the ADV Alpha lift, separate, and provide a customized fit.

The mesh overlay, racerback straps, and soft, structured cups create a modern look. The highest-support bra available from Nike, it also features sweat-wicking material that dries sweat in superior fashion. It is expensive, but with so much support and adjustability, it’s a solid investment.

Price at time of publication: $75

Key Specs:
Sizes: XS to 2XL | Support: High | Adjustable: Yes | Padding: Light | Material: Nylon, spandex, polyester | Care: Machine wash cold, line dry

Best Halter: No Bull Halter Sports Bra

Buy at Nobullproject.com

Pros

  • Wide range of colors

  • Matte fabric

  • Reflective detail

Cons

  • Only comes in four sizes

  • Straps aren’t adjustable

When you want to avoid strain on your shoulders, we recommend No Bull’s Halter Sports Bra. Designed for weightlifting, CrossFit, and HIIT workouts, this racerback bra features a reflective detail for exercising outside in low-light conditions. Snug compression pulls breasts close to the chest wall and takes the pressure off of your shoulders.

We love that this bra is made with matte fabric for days when you’re already feeling shiny enough during your workout. And it comes in 13 polished, jewel-toned colors. While the straps aren’t adjustable, it does come with removable pads for added support and thickness.

Price at time of publication: $52

Key Specs:
Sizes: XS to XXL | Support: Medium-high | Adjustable: No | Padding: Removable pads | Material: Polyester, spandex | Care: Machine wash cold, line dry

Best Longline: Lululemon Energy High-Neck Longline Tough Bra

Buy at Shop.lululemon.com

Pros

  • Snag-resistant

  • Four-way stretch

  • Removable cups

Cons

  • Expensive

  • Straps aren’t adjustable

Designed with medium- to high-intensity training in mind by a brand famous for their premium leggings, this top from Lululemon is our top pick for a longline, high-neck sports bra. The durable material is snag-resistant and has a four-way stretch, meaning this bra will last for years of workouts to come. While many longline bras can lack support, we love the Energy’s thick, no-budge band, which can come in handy during jumps and deadlifts.

The compression is supportive, and the material is breathable, making hard workouts much more manageable. We like the range of neutral, pastel, and neon print color options. However, this bra may run small for some wearers, and it comes in at a higher price point. Also, note that the crossback straps can’t be adjusted.

Price at time of publication: $68

Key Specs:
Sizes: 2 to 14 | Support: Medium-high | Adjustable: No | Padding: Removable pads | Material: Nylon, Lycra elastane, elastane, polyester | Care: Machine wash cold with like colors, line dry

Best Mesh: New Balance Rhythm N Run Bra

Buy at Newbalance.com

Pros

  • Breathable panels

  • Racerback strap has a pocket

  • Removable pads

Cons

  • Only comes in one color

  • Straps aren’t adjustable

For long, sweaty workouts or hot days, we recommend this New Balance bra. It has cooling mesh panels and supportive compression. Removable pads provide extra support and coverage when you need it, while a blend of moisture-wicking fabric keeps you dry. The band holds everything in place, keeping your shoulders strain-free.

Need a place to stash your phone, keys, or debit card while you’re working? Stow essentials safely in the racerback’s pocket. With a functional design this good, the main drawback is that there’s only one color option: black and white.

Price at time of publication: $45

Key Specs:
Sizes: XS through XL | Support: Medium | Strap Style: Racerback | Adjustable: No | Padding: Removable pads | Material: 87% recycled polyester/13% spandex body; 81% nylon/19% spandex lining | Care: Machine wash cold, line dry

Related: 10 Best Cooling Towels to Keep You Cool on Sweaty Days

Best Racerback: Gymshark 315 Performance Bra

Buy at Gymshark.com

Pros

  • Seamless design

  • Band has non-slip grip

  • Sweat-wicking

Cons

  • Straps aren’t adjustable

Gymshark’s 315 Performance Bra is our top choice for a supportive, comfortable racerback high-neck bra. Soft and sweat-wicking, we love this anti-chafe bra for weightlifting and spin class. A seamless design prevents any irritation, even after the longest sweat sessions.

The 315 comes with removable cups and in pretty neutrals that complement any gear. We also like that the band has a grippy lining, so it will stay put through almost anything. Just note that the straps aren’t adjustable, so you can’t change the fit.

Price at time of publication: $54

Key Specs:
Sizes: XS to XXL | Support: Medium | Adjustable: No | Padding: Removable pads | Material: Nylon, polyester, elastane | Care: Machine wash cold, line dry

Best for Running: Nike Dri-FIT Swoosh Run Division Medium-Support 1-Piece Pad Longline Sports Bra

Buy at Dickssportinggoods.com

Buy at Fleetfeet.com

Pros

  • Reflective details

  • Interior pocket

  • Made with recycled materials

Cons

  • Removable pad is only one piece

  • Straps aren’t adjustable

Whether you run indoors or out, this racerback sports bra is our top pick for everything from long jogs to short sprints. A number one concern for runners is safety, which is why we love that it has reflective details to make you visible to walkers and cars. The material is both compressive and cooling, while mesh panels down the front and back add ventilation.

Unlike other sports bras on the market, this one features a removable, one-piece pad, plus a pocket that can fit a smartphone. It’s also made using recycled materials, like Girlfriend Collective’s Topanga Halter Bra. However, the straps aren’t adjustable.

Price at time of publication: $55

Key Specs:
Sizes: XS to XXL | Support: High | Adjustable: No | Padding: Removable, 1-piece pad | Material: Recycled polyester, spandex, polyurethane | Care: Machine wash cold, line dry

Best Zip-Up: Avia Women's Zip-Front Sports Bra

Buy at Walmart.com

Pros

  • Adjustable straps

  • Budget-friendly

  • Sizing based on band and cups

Cons

  • May run small for some

Getting in and out of your sports bra shouldn’t be a hassle—that’s why we recommend this zip-front option from Avia. Not only is it budget-friendly, but it also features details aimed at comfort and function. This bra has adjustable, cross-back straps, breathable mesh in the front and back, and hook closure in the front to make zipping it up swift and easy.

Made for high-impact moves, the molded cups separate and support to keep bounce at bay (which can be especially helpful for larger busts). Best of all, the band, straps, and edges are soft and body-smoothing, yet don’t dig in.

We love that this high-coverage option is available in sizes that are based on both your band and cups for the perfect fit. Choose from three neutral colors.

Price at time of publication: $17

Key Specs:
Sizes: Small A-C to 3XL D-DD | Support: High | Adjustable: Yes | Padding: Lightly padded | Material: 81% recycled polyester | Care: Machine wash cold, gentle cycle with like colors, line or tumble dry low

Best Seamless: Alo Seamless Delight High Neck Sports Bra

Buy at Aloyoga.com

Buy at Revolve.com

Pros

  • Reflective detail

  • Lightweight

  • Designed for medium-impact

Cons

  • Straps aren’t adjustable

  • Expensive

Sick of straps that dig in and super-tight compression? For a comfortable, seamless top, we recommend this high-neck bra from Alo. Made with a soft, flattering knit, the lightweight fabric is luxe and offers moderate support for light-to-medium-intensity activities. Anything but basic, this piece can easily take you from the gym to the farmer’s market.

We also like that it has a reflective logo. Available in neutrals and limited runs of more vibrant shades, this racerback bra can’t be adjusted, and it comes in at a higher price point. But overall, it’s an effortless staple you’ll want to wear everywhere.

Price at time of publication: $64

Key Specs:
Sizes: XS to XL | Support: Low to medium | Adjustable: No | Padding: Removable pads | Material: Cotton, nylon, spandex | Care: Hand-wash or machine wash separately on cold, gentle cycle, tumble dry low

Best Adjustable: Outdoor Voices FreeForm Strappy Bra

Buy at Madewell.com

Buy at Outdoorvoices.com

Pros

  • Adjustable straps

  • Removable pads

  • Pattern hides sweat

Cons

  • May not have enough support for large busts

For a high-neck bra that’s easy to adjust, we recommend this pick from Outdoor Voices. We love that it has full coverage in the front, easily adjustable straps, and an open back. The breathable material also features flattering front seams for a stylish look.

While this bra only comes in two colors, the patterned version is designed to hide sweat, even during a tough workout. With a strong band and compressive material, it’s ideal for low- to medium-impact activities. However, it may not have enough support for those with larger busts.

Price at time of publication: $58

Key Specs:
Sizes: XXS to XL | Support: Low | Adjustable: Yes | Padding: Removable pads | Material: Polyester, spandex | Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low

Best Plus Size: Superfit Hero SUPERHOLD Sports Bra

Buy at Superfithero.com

Pros

  • Wide range of plus sizes

  • Medium compression

  • No padding

Cons

  • Straps aren’t adjustable

  • Expensive

Female-owned and operated, Superfit Hero is a Los Angeles-based athletic wear company that specializes in designing plus-size apparel. Their SUPERHOLD top is our pick for the best plus-size high-neck sports bra. Offered in sizes ranging from Large to 7XL, it’s made with softly-brushed compression fabric that flexes and moves with you.

Lined with a smoothing tricot knit, the bra doesn’t have any inserts or padding. Instead, a wide longline band and racerback straps provide comfort and support.

The SUPERHOLD is breathable and moisture-wicking, fully covers without rubbing or chafing, and is available in a range of modern, neutral colors. While this piece comes in at a higher point and can’t be adjusted, the sleek design and wide range of sizes is worth the investment.

Price at time of publication: $69

Key Specs:
Sizes: L to 7XL | Support: Medium | Adjustable: No | Padding: None | Material: Polyester, spandex | Care: Machine wash cold with mild detergent, lay flat to dry

Best Padded: Lykoxa High Neck Sports Bra

Buy at Amazon.com

Pros

  • Removable cups

  • Thick, wide band

  • Built-in shelf bra

Cons

  • Straps aren’t adjustable

This longline, full-coverage bra by Lykoxa is our top pick for the best padded high-neck sports bra because of its removable cups and moisture-wicking layers. The compressive fabric smooths from front to back, supporting the chest with help of a thick, wide band. Contoured seams give the top reinforced structure where it needs it most.

We also like that this top has a built-in shelf bra, so you can exercise with confidence. Choose from a wide range of colors, or stock up and purchase a pack of two. This bra is ideal for anyone who wants more coverage and evenly distributed support.

Price at time of publication: $25

Key Specs:
Sizes: XS to 2XL | Support: Medium | Adjustable: No | Padding: Removable pads | Material: Nylon, spandex | Care: Hand-wash recommended; machine wash cold with a laundry bag; line dry

Best With Pockets: Brooks Drive 3 Pocket Run Bra

Buy at Amazon.com

Buy at Zappos.com

Pros

  • Removable pads

  • Traditional bra sizing

  • Three exterior pockets

Cons

  • Straps aren’t adjustable

If you’re searching for a bra that has pockets, we recommend this one from Brooks. The Drive 3 comes with two mesh pockets on each side for smaller items like keys, earbuds, or energy gels and a third, phone-sized compartment in the racerback strap.

Brooks extensively lab-tests their bras with real runners to ensure there’s sufficient moisture control and comfort. Like many of our top picks, a motion control design, compression, and removable cups give you customizable support and padding.

The bonded seams lay flat to prevent chafing while en route. We love that the Drive 3 is available in a variety of colors that pop and follows traditional bra sizing so you can get the right fit.

Price at time of publication: $50

Key Specs:
Sizes: 30 A-B to 40 DD-E | Support: High | Adjustable: No | Padding: Removable pads | Material: Polyester, spandex | Care: Hand-wash recommended or machine wash cold with a garment bag, line dry

Related: The Best Running Shorts With Pockets, According to a Running Coach

How We Selected the Best High-Neck Sports Bras

To choose the best high-neck sports bras, we first spoke with bra fit specialist and lingerie and loungewear boutique owner Heather Laporte for her guidance on sports bra design, fit, and functionality. We also consulted personal trainers Ellyn Ferriter, MPH, CPT, and Amanda Barton, CPT, to get their expert advice on which features every high-neck sports bra needs.

Then, we researched dozens of high-neck sports bras from the top, trusted brands. We only chose products that ranked highly in key areas, including support level and type, sizing, material, and functional, comfortable design. We also considered size inclusivity, sustainability, durability, care and maintenance, and overall value.

What to Look For in a High-Neck Sports Bra

Fit

Coverage, supportive design, and proper bra measurements contribute to the overall comfort and fit of a high-neck sports bra. But no two bodies are alike, and what works for you might not work for someone else. This, along with the impact a workout can have on your bust, is why it’s important to choose a bra that fits you properly.

“The band should fit snug, and the cups of the bra should lay smooth, with all breast tissue contained inside,” Heather Laporte says. “Straps should hold very minimal weight. Choose a bra that has adjustable straps for comfort and support.”

She adds that you should ensure the bra offers full cup coverage and separation without any gaping or pinching. Before shopping, try using a tailor’s measuring tape or a bra fitting professional like Laporte to help you find your band and bust size. Then follow product measuring charts, professional recommendations, and your comfort level for the best success.

Support Level

Choose a bra with support features that will make it comfortable for the workout you’re doing. “High-impact bras are great for running, jumping, weight training, etc., whereas low-impact sports bras are good for activities such as yoga, and Pilates,” Amanda Barton says. She adds that the support level you need usually corresponds to your activity intensity.

Low-impact sports bras have light compression and a more minimal support structure for light activities like stretching, walking, yoga, and barre. They usually have thinner straps and bands, which sometimes make them less ideal for larger breasts. Medium-impact sports bras have more compression, internal structure, and wider straps. They’re a good choice for activities like cycling, barre, studio fitness classes, and shorter, less-intense runs.

High-impact sports bras provide the best level of bounce control. They have high compression, advanced structure, and wide, usually adjustable straps or bands. Wear these for high-impact activities that involve intense multi-planar movements, like jumping and bending at a fast pace and running.

If you require a high level of support for your bust size or activity type, it’s important to look for medium- or high-support bras with compression that will hold your breasts to your chest wall. Also, search for encapsulation support, which usually comes from separate internal cups that hold and support your breasts individually. This will prevent pain or strain while exercising.

Adjustability and Closures

Adjustable straps and bands provide a customizable fit, which can be beneficial for larger breasts or varying workout intensities. A bra with adjustable straps should be carefully chosen and fitted, says Laporte.

“In the proper fit, straps should not support the breast tissue. They should smooth the top of the cup without digging in or falling off,” she says. She explains that padded straps and eye-hook closures can be great additional features of a supportive and comfortable high-neck sports bra, as seen in Nike’s Dri-FIT ADV Alpha Sports Bra.

Adjustable hook and eye closure bands can be especially helpful for larger busts, says Ferriter. “If you’re larger-busted, you will likely want a bra that has a hook and eye closure, so it’s easily adjustable. That type of closure also typically makes for easy on-off—it’s the worst when you can’t get your bra off after a workout,” she says. Another popular closure for easy on-and-off is a front zipper that can tuck neatly away, like Avia’s Front Zip Front Sports-Bra has.

Materials

Choose a high-neck sports bra made of durable fabric that can breathe and wick moisture from the skin without rubbing or chafing. “Nylon and spandex are good materials to look for,” Ferriter says. She recommends avoiding cotton because it dries slowly, trapping odor and bacteria.

“Breathability and stability is the key,” adds Laporte. “A sports bra is made of many different components and fabrics that are moisture-wicking and breathable and provide stability in areas where needed, yet also elasticity to ensure it moves with your body.” Look for additional features, like laser-cut ventilation or mesh paneling, that promote airflow.

Care and Maintenance

As with most workout clothing that contains any kind of elasticity, most high-neck sports bras are machine-washable but must be line dried. Our experts and most manufacturers also recommend removing and hand-washing cups or padding with a mild detergent.

If you’re busy and must throw it into a machine, Ferriter says that “washing your sports bras in a mesh bra bag will help protect the cups, clasps, and overall shape of the bra.” And our experts recommend detergents specially made to thoroughly clean workout clothes—just remember to avoid fabric softeners. These measures will help preserve elasticity without causing irritation, which is especially important for sensitive skin.

Frequently Asked Questions

How should a sports bra fit?

A properly fitting sports bra should provide comfortable coverage and enough support for your favorite activities. It should also have straps and bands that don’t slip, roll, or put pressure on your shoulders or ribs. Look for a neck and sides that don’t gape open, pinch or choke you while you move.

“The band should fit snug, and the cups of the bra should lay smooth, with all breast tissue contained inside,” Laporte says. “When you are getting the proper support from your sports bra, the fullest part of your bust should be halfway between your shoulder and your elbow,” she adds. She and Ferriter both recommend choosing a bra that has adjustable straps or a band with a hook and eye closure for a customizable fit, especially for larger breasts. If you are looking for something for large breasts, there are several brands that make the best sports bras for large breasts.

How should I measure for a sports bra?

“Measure your band size and then your bust size while placing the tape at the fullest part of your bust,” says Laporte. “Subtract the band size from your bust size to find the right cup size. Every inch equals one cup size up. For example: if the band size measures 34 inches and the bust size 37 inches, your cup size is a C cup (37-34 equals 3, which equals a C cup [0=AA, 1=A, 2=B, 3=C, and so on]). The bra size would be 34C.”

Laporte says that this tape measure method is just a guide—and it’s a great start if you aren’t sure what your current size is.

What is the difference between a high-impact and a low-impact sports bra?

“The impact level describes the type of activity that the bra would be suited for,'' Ferriter says. “High-impact bras will be for your higher impact movement, like running, jumping, HIIT training, and plyometric work. Lower-impact will be best for activities like walking, jogging, strength training, and even walking around town.” Medium impact is between support levels and is great for activities like cycling, barre, and studio fitness classes.

All three support levels have specially designed materials and structures appropriate to their intended use. “High-impact sports bras are designed to meet the extra demands of any active lifestyle,” Laporte says. “They have stronger, more supportive materials than low-impact sports bras and have a different construction overall that makes them more supportive to guarantee less up and down movement of the breast.”

While it’s tempting to simply toss a sweaty bra into the washing machine after a killer workout, “I always recommend that you hand wash your bras in a mild detergent for lingerie. A three-to-five-minute soak in the sink should do,” Laporte recommends.

You can also machine-wash most bras unless the manufacturer states otherwise. “If you put your bras in the washing machine, use a lingerie mesh bag and always hook the bra before putting it in. Place it in a delicate cycle and only place lightweight delicates in the wash with them. Never put your bras in the dryer—the heat melts the delicate fibers and elastic,” she adds.

Do high-neck sports bras contain BPA?

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical found in some types of plastic. Research has shown that exposure to high levels of BPA can lead to obesity, hormonal imbalances, and uterine cancer, among other health complications. 
In May 2023, the Center for Environmental Health (CEH) announced that, after testing, it found high levels of BPA in certain activewear pieces containing blends of polyester and spandex, including sports bras from Sweaty Betty, leggings from Nike, Athleta, Champion, Patagonia, and Kohl’s, shorts from Champion, Nike, and Adidas, and athletic shirts from Fabletics. We may recommend some of these products or similar items from these brands in this list, as these products have not been recalled and the science on transdermal absorption of BPA is still not settled. 
“The best way to prevent BPA exposure is to make educated decisions in choosing your personal care products,” explains Joshua Zeichner, MD, associate professor of dermatology and director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital. As a precaution, it is best to limit the amount of time you spend in activewear by changing out of it when you are finished working out.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

A certified personal trainer who works out daily, Jessica Murtaugh, NASM-CPT and CNC, understands how a properly-fitting sports bra can help you perform and feel your best. Owning and wearing high-neck sports bras herself, she prioritized trustworthy brands that aim to accommodate a variety of support needs, body types, style preferences, and budgets. Jessica favors eco-conscious brands that promote size, gender, and race inclusivity in their products and is dedicated to reporting authentic content to her readers.

Read Next: Here Are the Best Sports Bras for Runners, According to a Running Coach