The Best Longline Sports Bras for Comfortable Coverage
These cute (and supportive) picks totally double as workout tops.
Courtesy of the brands / Laneen Wells
All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.
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1
Girlfriend Collective
Girlfriend Collective Paloma Racerback Bra
Pros: Supportive, made with recycled materials, sweat-wicking
Cons: May run small, according to some reviewersThe Paloma is an essential, no-frills, always-has-your-back kind of bra. Like all Girlfriend Collective products, it’s made mostly from recycled water bottles. “I love this sports bra so much, I have it in three colors,” one SELF editor says. “When it comes to sports bras, the more compressive, the better for me, and Girlfriend Collective makes some of the most supportive undergarments I’ve tried.”
She’s also a big fan of GC’s buy back program—when your bra has reached the end of its time in your drawer (meaning it’s ripped, stretched out, or has that perma-smell), you can mail it back for the brand to recycle and receive $10 in shopping credit. With nearly 14,800 rave reviews, this top is sure to become a staple in your workout wardrobe.
Sizes: XXS to 6XL | Materials: RPET (recycled water bottles), spandex | Colors: 11
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2
Spanx Longline Medium Impact Sports Bra
Pros: Sweat-wicking, UPF 50+ sun protection
Cons: May run small, according to some reviewersYou probably know Spanx for its shapewear—but don’t sleep on its activewear! Tons of folks swear by the brand’s leggings, but this longline bra is just as practical and flattering. The V-cut neckline is flirty and fun, and it doesn’t dip down so far that it shows cleavage. Made from a sweat-wicking fabric blend, it dries quickly (and won’t show sweat splotches during long hikes or extra-tough spin classes).
Sizes: XS to 2XL | Materials: Polyester, elastane | Colors: 6
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3
Lululemon
Energy Longline Bra
Pros: Chafe-free, medium support
Cons: Some reviewers have found that the band rolls upSearching for something to match your Align leggings? The Energy Longline Bra looks classic in the front, but boasts cute, strappy details in the back. Made from Lululemon’s Luxtreme fabric, which has a smooth, slick feel, your arms will glide over this bra with zero friction. One reviewer wrote, “I really enjoy this bra for running long distances in the trails or in the street. My main issue is chafing at the bra line, but this model does not rub and create burns.”
Sizes: 2 to 14 | Materials: Polyester, elastane | Colors: 11
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4
Tentree
InMotion Longline Active Bra
Pros: Four-way stretch, easy to slip on and off
Cons: No pads or pad pocketsOne SELF writer has relied on this bra to get her through multiple marathon training cycles. “It’s one of very few bras that doesn’t cause any chafing in my armpits, it’s super soft, and it has just the right balance of compression and stretch—I feel supported, but it’s easy to take off when I’m sweaty too,” she says. “And shockingly, it looks and feels nearly brand new after years of workouts and washing.”
Like all of Tentree’s apparel, it’s made from only organic or recycled materials, and the brand plants trees for each purchase. You can also send it back when it’s reached the end of its life to have it recycled.
Sizes: XS to XL | Materials: Polyester, elastane | Colors: 6
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5
Hanes
Originals Longline Racerback Sports Bra
Pros: Wide, soft band; matching pants available
Cons: Not sweat-wickingThis comfy pull-on bra from Hanes is mostly made from cotton, which means it’s best for low-sweat activities (like walking, yoga, or stretching) and will feel light and airy on. Into matching workout sets? You’re in luck—the brand makes soft, stretchy flared pants that pair perfectly with this racerback.
Sizes: XS to 2XL | Materials: Cotton, spandex | Colors: 3
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6
Harper Wilde
Flex Racerback Sport Tank
Pros: High neckline, double layer fabric
Cons: Not supportive enough for high-impact activitiesHarper Wilde’s high-neck Flex Racerback Sport Tank provides solid coverage and low-impact support for yoga, Pilates, strength training, or running errands on rest days. Although it doesn’t have a shelf or removable pads, it’s made with two layers of fabric (so you don’t have to worry about it being see-through).
Sizes: XS to 4XL | Materials: Nylon, Lycra | Colors: 3
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7
Athleta
Warrior Twist Longline Bra
Pros: Great stretch, quick-drying
Cons: Not supportive enough for high-impact activitiesFor medium support, Athleta’s Warrior Twist Longline Bra is our top pick. It features thick shoulder straps and a compliment-worthy design in the back. The slightly scooped neckline won’t feel constrictive, but also keeps everything covered as you move. Plus, like many other bras on our list, it’s made with recycled plastic bottles.
Sizes: XXS to XL | Materials: Nylon, Lycra | Colors: 2
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8
Nike
Alate Medium-Support Padded Sports Bra Tank Top
Pros: Sweat-wicking, built-in bra
Cons: May run small, according to some reviewersMade from recycled polyester, the Alate Tank Top has a stunning sweetheart neckline and a slight sheen. With a built-in bra—no pads to readjust!—it’s perfect for low- to medium-impact workouts, like cycling or CrossFit. One Nike reviewer (who owns this bra in every color—a true seal of approval) wrote, “Such a pretty silhouette. Love pairing this with flared leggings and wearing this outfit to reformer Pilates.”
Sizes: XS to 2XL | Materials: Polyester, spandex | Colors: 7
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9
Active by Abercrombie
YPB SculptLUX Curve Love Squareneck Slim Tank
Pros: Comes with removable pads, four-way stretch
Cons: Runs small, brand recommends sizing upThis bra also borders on tank territory, with a flattering square neckline and soft, sculpting fabric that’s supportive without feeling stiff or pinchy. “I absolutely need Abercrombie to come out with more colors of this top,” wrote one reviewer. “It fits like an absolute glove and I could wear this without a sports bra if I wanted to lounge or with a sports bra if I had a workout class!”
Sizes: XXS to 2XL | Materials: Polyester, elastane | Colors: 1
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10
OFFLINE By Aerie
Real Me Low Key Longline Sports Bra
Pros: Soft fabric, lightweight
Cons: Reviewers say the lighter colors are see-throughWith removable padding and a built-in shelf, Aerie’s Low Key Longline Sports Bra works both as an errands uniform and a workout top. Reviewers love it: “Literally the softest material that’s really breathable and feels like butter,” one wrote. “I will 100% be wearing this as a top all summer.”
Sizes: XXS to 2XL | Materials: Nylon, elastane | Colors: 10
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11
Old Navy
Light Support PowerSoft Ribbed Longline Sports Bra
Pros: Budget-friendly, wide range of colors and patterns
Cons: Runs small, according to some reviewersReviewers love this classic scoopneck bra for its super soft fabric and all-around comfort. “The fit is amazing and so many compliments!” one Old Navy customer wrote. At this price, you may want to grab more than one.
Sizes: XS to 4XL | Materials: Polyester, spandex, nylon | Colors: 19
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12
Free People
Never Better Square Neck Bra
Pros: Breathable, soft fabric; wide range of colors
Cons: Straps may be long, according to some reviewersThe Never Better Bra features a low, square neckline, with straps that meet in a racerback design for added support. Four-way stretch fabric helps boost air flow to keep you cool and comfortable, even during hot yoga.
Sizes: XS to XL | Materials: Polyamide, elastane | Colors: 18
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13
Outdoor Voices
Athena Crop Top
Pros: Super supportive, sweat-wicking, UPF 50+ protection
Cons: No removable paddingWith a high neckline and compressive fabric, the Athena Crop Top will support you through running, cycling, hiking, court sports—you name it. “As someone with a D cup, one of my pet peeves is when my sports bras show too much cleavage,” one SELF editor notes. “I love this bra from OV because it has a nice high neck that makes me feel covered—even when I’m jumping and burpee-ing during HIIT classes.” She adds that “the fabric has a nice, heathered look and feel to it. I also tend to reach for this on WFH days to wear under a zip-up sweatshirt or hoodie.”
Sizes: XXS to 3XL | Materials: Polyester, spandex | Colors: 2
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14
Beyond Yoga
POWERBEYOND Intensity Racerback Cropped Tank
Pros: Built-in bra, medium support
Cons: Runs small, according to reviewersThe subtle V neckline and side seams give this tank a cool corset-like look. But it doesn’t skimp on support, thanks to an internal shelf bra, wide shoulder straps, and racerback design. “Compression is great, neckline is sexy without being too much, thickness and fabric are supportive but comfortable!” one reviewer wrote.
Sizes: XS to XL | Materials: Not listed | Colors: 5
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15
Lululemon
Bend This Scoop and Cross Bra
Pros: Soft, buttery fabric; reversible design
Cons: Not supportive enough for high-impact activities, reviewers say it stretches outSweat-wicking and quick-drying, Lululemon’s Bend This Bra bra still manages to be super soft to the touch. You can’t go wrong with the pretty, plunge neckline—or flip it around so the unique cutout is on full display.
Sizes: XXS to XL | Materials: Nylon, Lycra elastane | Colors: 7
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What should you look for when shopping for longline sports bras?
Support level
Many longline sports bras have a built-in shelf, a wide band, or are made with compressive fabric to help you feel lifted and supported. But some are designed to hold up to certain levels of activity. Think about your daily schedule and workout routine before making a purchase. HIIT, calisthenics, or running will require a high-support, high-impact bra, usually one with thick, racerback-style straps. If you enjoy cycling, barre, or dance classes, you’ll probably need medium support, while low-impact workouts will get you through most errands, rest days, and yoga and Pilates sessions.
Material
Which materials a bra is made from can affect its stretch, feel, and sweat-wicking abilities. For slow days, you may want something that’s soft and light, like cotton. Intense workouts demand something that’s more breathable, like a polyester and elastane blend. If you’re planning to train outside, clothes with UPF sun protection can help block harmful UV rays (although they still aren’t a replacement for sunscreen, as SELF previously reported).
Considering the fact that many longline bras don’t have closures, you’ll need to pull them on and off over your head, which can be a major pain when you’re sweaty. In that case, you might want to look for something with stretchy spandex or size up so you don’t feel too restricted.
Neckline
Aside from offering more coverage, a longline sports bra with a higher neckline can also help prevent painful bouncing and provide more sun protection. Again, keep your wardrobe and activity levels in mind—low necklines can be cute, but they might not always serve you well in every situation.
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Sarah Madaus was previously an editorial assistant and commerce writer at SELF. She’s currently working toward her master’s in library and information science and is passionate about environmental justice, sustainability, nutrition, the internet, and fiction. She lives in Brooklyn with her 54 plants (and counting).
Kristin Canning is a freelance journalist who covers emerging health research and technology, women’s health conditions, psychology, sexuality, mental health, reproductive justice, wellness entrepreneurs, female athletes, the outdoors, women’s gear, and the intersection of health, fitness, and culture. She has worked in wellness media for over a decade, serving as the… Read more
SELF does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Any information published on this website or by this brand is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional.
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