It’s hard to picture working out pregnant without the best maternity sports bras. Pregnancy workouts are so important for keeping both mama and baby healthy (for things like brain development and increased oxygen flow) but when the workout itself becomes wrestling into a sports bra, it’s time for some new options. Any big busted gal knows how essential a supportive sports bra is to any chic workout gear, and as a mom-to-be, it’s even more important. Protecting the sensitive and growing breast tissue now through postpartum as the milk comes is as essential as those workouts.

RELATED: Ovulation Calculator: Find Out The Most Fertile Days In Your Menstrual Cycle

There are many different sports bras out on the market today for both pregnant and non-pregnant women, so narrowing down the choices can be quite overwhelming. (As if we didn’t have enough to worry about with finding the perfect baby crib, car seat, and nursery decor!) The top things to look for are support, comfort, and flexibility (and we don’t just mean stretch). Finding a bra that adjusts in multiple ways to adapt for growing breasts is key (think adjustable straps and band size). And as you may already know, pregnant tired is a whole new level of tired, so zip front and eye and hook closure bras will help to conserve that last little bit of energy you have for the actual workout. Regardless of the type of workout, choose a bra that fits properly (be sure to check the sizing chart!) and provides a bounce-free experience for optimal comfort.

Not sure where to start? Stay tuned. From maternity sports bras that offer nursing access post-birth, to adjustable for growing breasts, we’ve curated our favorite sports bra options for pregnancy and postpartum wear. You’ll be comfortable and supported for all your activities, whether they’re low-impact, high-intensity, or anything in between!

This double-layer bralette is made of Gap’s signature gDry moisture-wicking fabric for optimum dryness even when you sweat. Ideal for yoga, pilates, and barre workouts, (you know, the ones that prep those core muscles for delivery,) this light support bra is comfortable enough for sleep, as well. The adjustable straps will allow for changes as your body grows over the 40 weeks of pregnancy and the front clasps allow for easy nursing access once Baby arrives. Available in sizes XS (32-34A) to XL (38D).

Kindred Bravely’s Low Impact Sublime Nursing Sports Bra is a fan favorite for mamas and mamas-to-be, but now it comes in bustier sizes designed especially for women who wear F cups and larger. The Bustier style comes with wider straps and a tighter knit fabric for more support. Not sure what your new pregnancy size is? This size chart can help you decide which bra is the right fit. Once Baby arrives, the handy clip-down cups make breastfeeding a snap without another bra change!

Finding cute maternity wear is easier than it’s ever been before. Case in point: Sweat and Milk’s gorgeous LUCIE – HIIT Scalloped High Impact Nursing Sports Bra (yes, high-impact for DD cups, too!). The beautiful scalloped detail adds feminine flair that many sports bras are seriously lacking, but this bra also offers extreme functionality. The mesh back panel makes it breathable and fast-drying and front clasps mean that Mama can nurse with ease. We also love that it’s compatible with the Willow and Elvie pumps for when you need to pump on the go! Available in sizes XS-XL and 3 versatile colors. 

While Cake Maternity’s sports bra is one of the more expensive options on this list (depending on size), it’s arguably the best maternity sports bra available for B to K cup sizes. Offering comfort and support with underwire, it’s also made with a specialty fabric that allows for airflow and lets moisture evaporate for an overall cooling effect. Most maternity sports bras offer nursing clips, however Cake has taken it to the next level: Their A-frame design positions the breasts for easy latching when Baby needs a milk break. As an added bonus, this bra can also be used as a pumping bra with all breast pumps.

Whether looking to engage in an active workout or simply just be comfortable while nursing the baby, La Leche’s Wireless Nursing Sports Bra is as versatile as it is comfortable (word to the wise, order up a size to be sure). The one-handed nursing buckle design allows for quick feeding access as Baby demands, and the breathable mesh fabric creates comfort when and where it’s most needed. La Leche recommends following these sizing guidelines, as the bra does run small: S(A), M(B/C), L(C), XL(C/D), 2XL(D/E), 3XL(F).

While not specifically a maternity sports bra, this wire-free racerback option has adjustable shoulder straps, making it preggo-friendly. (Seriously, trying to wriggle and squirm into and out of a sports bra is enough to deter some soon-to-be mamas from even attempting the workout.) With SYROKAN’s adjustable front straps, the girls can be locked and loaded for even those higher impact workouts, but also makes bra removal a snap! The lightweight material is breathable while still being extremely supportive. We love that it’s also available in 24 colors in sizes 32B through 40 H/I and 44F so no matter your pregnancy bra size you have options! P.S. Several expecting reviewers say this affordable pick is a workout winner. 

When growing a tiny human, the female body fills out wherever it damn well pleases, which doesn’t make finding a bra super easy. SHEFIT’s Ultimate Sports Bra is the answer to the “one boob is mysteriously larger than the other” or “my rib cage now seems to be expanding” drama. This beautiful and fully-adjustable sports bra with seamed cups can be used throughout your pregnancy and well afterward; its patented Zip. Cinch. Lift. technology lets you adjust the band and straps for a customizable fit that changes with your body. Although it’s not specifically a maternity bra, the front-zip closure allows for easy on/off and breastfeeding access. Available in sizes XS to 6LUXE (which should include up to an I cup).

Lululemon is a gold standard of high-performance workout gear, and if you’re already a fan of the brand, you know it’s tried and true. The Enlite Bra Zip Front High Support Bra is engineered for ladies with A-E cups and is made with their signature UltraLu lightweight and breathable fabric. A zip-front bra is a must for any mama-to-be (or anyone, really) who is sweaty and struggling to get in and out of a bra. We love the criss-cross back design and the different print options.

Glamorise has married two great ideas into one with their No-Bounce Camisole Wirefree Sports Bra. The underlayer is a breathable camisole that contains the upper bust and offers bounce control, while the full coverage, reinforced no-stretch cups hold you in and up! We also love the back design with the eye and hook closure make for easy-on, easy-off changing. Available in 8 colors (including fun colors like purple and rose violet) and band sizes 34-50 and cups C-J.

Glamorise is a go-to for plus-size women (for over 100 years!) in need of a bounce-free bra. It’s no wonder that they have engineered not only one but two great sports bras for the DD+ community. (Many mamas-to-be enter into this foreign world as their body grows without realizing it.) Made of breathable, mesh fabric with the ability to adjust 4 ways, the Double-Layer Custom-Control Sports Bra is a must for anyone looking for support during their next HIIT workout. We love that the band sizes span from 32-46 and are available in cups sizes B-I.

Though not maternity specific, Panache’s Non-Wired Sports Bra has the look and feel of a very structured (aka wired) bra, but with the flexibility mamas-to-be need. Thanks to a clasped band, this one doesn’t need to be stretched over the head, and the straps can be switched from regular-style to racerback as desired. Most sports bras strap the girls down for a bounce-free bra, but Panache took a different approach. This bra is designed to enclose the breast by lifting, shaping, and supporting, (just like a regular bra) but also reducing bounce by a significant amount (83% to be exact). Available in 25 colors and prints in band sizes 28-40 and cups B-J. 

Not exactly a sports bra, but a sports bra’s best friend. YOWBAND’s No-Bounce High Impact Breast Support Band offers generous support for growing and sensitive breasts when layered over a sports bra. The band works to reduce both vertical and lateral movement up to 78% when layered over a sports bra! Only small and medium sizes are offered, however, the small is designed to fit sizes 4-8 and medium 8-14 with a velcro closure allowing for a custom fit. 

Looking for more must have items before BB’s arrival? Check out all of our mom approved pregnancy essentials!

This double-layer bralette is made of Gap’s signature gDry moisture-wicking fabric for optimum dryness even when you sweat. Ideal for yoga, pilates, and barre workouts, (you know, the ones that prep those core muscles for delivery,) this light support bra is comfortable enough for sleep, as well. The adjustable straps will allow for changes as your body grows over the 40 weeks of pregnancy and the front clasps allow for easy nursing access once Baby arrives. Available in sizes XS (32-34A) to XL (38D).

Kindred Bravely’s Low Impact Sublime Nursing Sports Bra is a fan favorite for mamas and mamas-to-be, but now it comes in bustier sizes designed especially for women who wear F cups and larger. The Bustier style comes with wider straps and a tighter knit fabric for more support. Not sure what your new pregnancy size is? This size chart can help you decide which bra is the right fit. Once Baby arrives, the handy clip-down cups make breastfeeding a snap without another bra change!

While not specifically a maternity sports bra, this wire-free racerback option has adjustable shoulder straps, making it preggo-friendly. (Seriously, trying to wriggle and squirm into and out of a sports bra is enough to deter some soon-to-be mamas from even attempting the workout.) With SYROKAN’s adjustable front straps, the girls can be locked and loaded for even those higher impact workouts, but also makes bra removal a snap! The lightweight material is breathable while still being extremely supportive. We love that it’s also available in 24 colors in sizes 32B through 40 H/I and 44F so no matter your pregnancy bra size you have options! P.S. Several expecting reviewers say this affordable pick is a workout winner. 

While Cake Maternity’s sports bra is one of the more expensive options on this list (depending on size), it’s arguably the best maternity sports bra available for B to K cup sizes. Offering comfort and support with underwire, it’s also made with a specialty fabric that allows for airflow and lets moisture evaporate for an overall cooling effect. Most maternity sports bras offer nursing clips, however Cake has taken it to the next level: Their A-frame design positions the breasts for easy latching when Baby needs a milk break. As an added bonus, this bra can also be used as a pumping bra with all breast pumps.

When growing a tiny human, the female body fills out wherever it damn well pleases, which doesn’t make finding a bra super easy. SHEFIT’s Ultimate Sports Bra is the answer to the “one boob is mysteriously larger than the other” or “my rib cage now seems to be expanding” drama. This beautiful and fully-adjustable sports bra with seamed cups can be used throughout your pregnancy and well afterward; its patented Zip. Cinch. Lift. technology lets you adjust the band and straps for a customizable fit that changes with your body. Although it’s not specifically a maternity bra, the front-zip closure allows for easy on/off and breastfeeding access. Available in sizes XS to 6LUXE (which should include up to an I cup).

Lululemon is a gold standard of high-performance workout gear, and if you’re already a fan of the brand, you know it’s tried and true. The Enlite Bra Zip Front High Support Bra is engineered for ladies with A-E cups and is made with their signature UltraLu lightweight and breathable fabric. A zip-front bra is a must for any mama-to-be (or anyone, really) who is sweaty and struggling to get in and out of a bra. We love the criss-cross back design and the different print options.

Glamorise is a go-to for plus-size women (for over 100 years!) in need of a bounce-free bra. It’s no wonder that they have engineered not only one but two great sports bras for the DD+ community. (Many mamas-to-be enter into this foreign world as their body grows without realizing it.) Made of breathable, mesh fabric with the ability to adjust 4 ways, the Double-Layer Custom-Control Sports Bra is a must for anyone looking for support during their next HIIT workout. We love that the band sizes span from 32-46 and are available in cups sizes B-I.

Though not maternity specific, Panache’s Non-Wired Sports Bra has the look and feel of a very structured (aka wired) bra, but with the flexibility mamas-to-be need. Thanks to a clasped band, this one doesn’t need to be stretched over the head, and the straps can be switched from regular-style to racerback as desired. Most sports bras strap the girls down for a bounce-free bra, but Panache took a different approach. This bra is designed to enclose the breast by lifting, shaping, and supporting, (just like a regular bra) but also reducing bounce by a significant amount (83% to be exact). Available in 25 colors and prints in band sizes 28-40 and cups B-J. 

Whether looking to engage in an active workout or simply just be comfortable while nursing the baby, La Leche’s Wireless Nursing Sports Bra is as versatile as it is comfortable (word to the wise, order up a size to be sure). The one-handed nursing buckle design allows for quick feeding access as Baby demands, and the breathable mesh fabric creates comfort when and where it’s most needed. La Leche recommends following these sizing guidelines, as the bra does run small: S(A), M(B/C), L(C), XL(C/D), 2XL(D/E), 3XL(F).

Not exactly a sports bra, but a sports bra’s best friend. YOWBAND’s No-Bounce High Impact Breast Support Band offers generous support for growing and sensitive breasts when layered over a sports bra. The band works to reduce both vertical and lateral movement up to 78% when layered over a sports bra! Only small and medium sizes are offered, however, the small is designed to fit sizes 4-8 and medium 8-14 with a velcro closure allowing for a custom fit. 

Finding cute maternity wear is easier than it’s ever been before. Case in point: Sweat and Milk’s gorgeous LUCIE – HIIT Scalloped High Impact Nursing Sports Bra (yes, high-impact for DD cups, too!). The beautiful scalloped detail adds feminine flair that many sports bras are seriously lacking, but this bra also offers extreme functionality. The mesh back panel makes it breathable and fast-drying and front clasps mean that Mama can nurse with ease. We also love that it’s compatible with the Willow and Elvie pumps for when you need to pump on the go! Available in sizes XS-XL and 3 versatile colors. 

Glamorise has married two great ideas into one with their No-Bounce Camisole Wirefree Sports Bra. The underlayer is a breathable camisole that contains the upper bust and offers bounce control, while the full coverage, reinforced no-stretch cups hold you in and up! We also love the back design with the eye and hook closure make for easy-on, easy-off changing. Available in 8 colors (including fun colors like purple and rose violet) and band sizes 34-50 and cups C-J.

This article was originally published on 7.15.2021