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Put a lil extra ~zip~ into your next gym sesh.
If you have boobs, you likely know the struggle of finding the perfect workout bra. And, ofc, the only thing worse than wrestling a clingy, compressive contraption over your body before a workout is trying to wrench it off after when it’s all sticky and sweaty. Ick. If you’ve ever struggled while getting in and out of your boob jail or if you’re someone with a limited range of motion, then it may be time to invest in some zip-front sports bras. As well as preventing chafing, bouncing, adjusting, and sliding, workout bras that zip in the front make it a cinch to get changed pre-and post-workout—but not all front-zip bras are created equal.
Just like with any bra, workout bras with zippers come with some potential issues and annoyances. Because most front-zip sports bras are made with extra padding and higher necklines, they can cause even more irritation and boob sweat, which is a big nope. You may also find that some have finicky zippers that slide down mid-workout or those that are so tight and constrictive that you feel like you’re strapped into a corset. But when it comes to coverage and comfort, these bbs can’t be beat.
Ahead, all of the best front-zip workout bras to complement your workout 'fit, made for all types of exercise in mind and for small busts and big busts alike.
The game-changing Catalyst Bra from Knix is made with a blend of nylon and spandex and can give maximum support to boobs of just about any size—trust. You’ll love its cross-back design, adjustable band and back straps, and breathable molded cups. Plus, it comes in SO many pretty colors!
Glowing Review: Not only is this bra comfortable, but the ability to adjust the band and the straps while still having the convenience of a front-zip is a complete game changer. I can’t recommend this bra enough for busty girls that want to be comfortable and covered while being active!
This Lululemon dupe from Cordaw has earned nearly 2,500 five-star reviews for a reason: It really does get the job done (and for less than $22 too!!). Available up to size 5X, this bra features a unique criss-cross back design, removable pads, and two hooks at the top of the zipper placket for added security.
Glowing Review: Went into full temple run mode, nipples and boobs stayed right in place. I almost couldn’t believe it. I had trouble initially getting this bra on with the combo of hooks and zipper, but once you’re locked in, you can do any activity with confidence and ease.
Chances are, you’ve seen this bb alllll over TikTok, and the people of the internet (as well as THOUSANDS of happy reviewers) agree: This bra means serious business. It’s got two-way stretch fabric for high-impact support, comfy padded straps, and a fully adjustable rib band, and you can get it up to size 6X.
Glowing Review: This is the best sports bra I have ever owned! Finding a good fit for my body type has always been a challenge. But these bras fit perfectly and the almost infinite amount of adjustments that can be made means that the fit is personalized every time.
If you’re looking for a low-impact sports bra that offers light compression and maximum coverage, then this option from Torrid is your girl. Featuring wireless cups, a racerback, and ah-mazingly breathable fabric, this bra (which is available up to size 6X) is as perfect for brunch as it is for yoga.
Glowing Review: If I could give this all the stars, I would. I have been wanting a zip front bra forever but since I’m top heavy the zipper never stays up. But this one has a great zipper and extra clasps. I felt great in it all day!!!!
Want a sports bra that won’t give you that dreaded uniboob and will even make you feel (dare we say) sexy? Pls turn your attention to this underwire beaut from Maidenform, which has a mesh racerback for extra breathability, fully adjustable straps, and molded cups that *actually* keep your boob separated and secure.
Glowing Review: I put this sports bra on today and OH MY LORD. I have never ever come back to Amazon to reorder a product. I am absolutely stunned. They hold up my boobs to normal chest height. It keeps them separated in their own cups. The straps are adjustable for your own comfort. The material is thick yet breathable. I feel like a new woman.
Calling all runners: This is the bra for you. Specially designed for running (although, ofc, it can be worn for just about any activity), this super-popular option features built-in cups, a bonded underband that stays firmly in place, and ultra-breathable fabric that stretches without ever losing its shape. Reviewers suggest sizing up to get your best fit.
Glowing Review: This bra is perfect! I have a larger chest for a small frame and I wear this bra for all workouts, from cardio to barre. Keeps everything comfortable and secure and molds well (no uniboob!).
Sweaty boobs def won’t be a problem in this hiiiighly rated bra, which was designed for keeping ya cool and comfy during low-impact activities. People ❤️ it for its adjustable straps, recycled polyester fabric, removable padding, and semi-auto lock zipper that stays firmly in place, no matter where your workout takes you.
Glowing Review: I’ve tried zip-front sports bras in the past but have always felt like I was putting on and wearing a corset. This bra is not like that. It is lightweight, with a breathable mesh back, thin adjustable straps, and a neckline that won’t peek out from under a tank.
Don’t be fooled by the $34 price tag—this sport bra from Yvette is amazingly high-quality at a low cost. Available up to size 5X, this unique option features a partial zip in front and a hook-and-eye clasp in the back along with a full-coverage fit, padded sewn-in cups, and wide mesh shoulder straps.
Glowing Review: I really like the wider straps, which is important to me as I have a large chest. The wider straps are comfortable and stay in place as I am working out with no slippage. I also appreciate the mesh detailing and overall stylish design.
Made with recycled nylon that dries quick and stays cool, this medium-impact workout bra offers supportive compression without ever feeling heavy or constrictive. People love the removable pads and lay-flat front zipper, and although this one only accommodates up to a C-cup, Athleta also makes an Ultimate Zip Front for D-cups.
Glowing Review: SO MUCH easier to get on than “traditional” sports bras—and I LOVE the small hook that helps keep it closed before it's zipped up so that putting it on isn’t a struggle. The design is well thought out, the fabric and construction are quality, and the color is great too.
Built for running, training, and high-intensity activities, this no-nonsense option from Champion is INCREDIBLY supportive given how lightweight it feels. With cups designed to reduce movement and smoothing laminate panels that banish bounce, this bbs here to make sure you don’t end up with two black eyes.
Glowing Review: This bra is very high quality. Fits exactly as advertised, [and] gives excellent uplift and support with high quality zipper. Good front-zip sports bras for buxom women are hard to find. I’m so glad I found this sports bra.
Hi, are you currently nursing? Then you def need this hands-free pumping sports bra, which gives ya one-handed nursing access, medium- to high-impact support, and full coverage with no spills. Best of all: It looks NOTHING like a traditional nursing bra.
Glowing Review: Love this bra! It has the perfect amount of support and compression for training but is also easy to use for nursing/pumping. I am a fan of the full coverage one this bra but also [its] super flattering style.
This shimmering sports bra from POPFLEX really said fitness, but make it ~fashion~. Featuring a pretty curved Y-back, removable cups, and a stay-put zipper, this medium- to high-impact bra (which goes up to size 3X) will def be turning some heads at the gym.
Glowing Review: If you are nervous to buy this because it has a zipper (I was), BUY IT! Even through my toughest cardio workout the zipper didn't move even once. The straps don’t dig into my shoulder when weight lifting and the rainbow sparkles are so beautiful, especially in the sun!
Your sports bra can really make or break your workout when you have boobs, so it’s in your best interest to get a good one. As Knix spokesperson and director of communications Emily Scarlett explains, “Support and comfort are two of the main qualities in a sports bra that people usually look for, which is imperative no matter your shape, size, or activity level.” A few things to keep in mind as you shop:
Although it may seem obvious, finding the right fitting bra is especially important when it comes to sports bras. “Movement is imperative with any sports bra, and [a zip front sports bra] is no different,” Scarlett says. The best way to ensure you get the perfect fit: Get one with straps you can adjust as needed (and it’s an added bonus if the bra band is adjustable too).
Cotton may be breathable, but you actually want to steer clear of sports bras that feature largely cotton blends, as they’ll cling to you once you start to sweat. Instead, opt for bras made with moisture-wicking synthetic fabrics, like nylon or polyester, which will transfer sweat away from your body and leave you feeling cool.
Again, it may seem kinda duh, but there’s no point in getting a zip front sports bra if the zipper sucks. Look for bras with extra hooks and zipper locks that’ll make sure your bra stays sealed until you’re ready to take it off—and if you wanna avoid a zipper bulge under your shirt, then find one with a lil zipper flap on top that’ll keep it tucked way.
We looked alllll over the internet for the best zippered sports bras on the market right now, including options in a variety of styles and sizes so you can find your right match. For criteria, we evaluated support, comfort, and adjustability to determine the right zip front sports bra for you.
Here at Cosmo, we have high standards when it comes to clothing and accessory recommendations. Each of our shopping articles adheres to the 15 Percent Pledge and includes pieces for all sizes and budgets. And you better believe we read those product reviews (and test many of the brands IRL) so you don't have to do it yourself.
Emily Scarlett is the director of communications at Knix.