As beneficial as the right playlist can be to boosting your workout[1] , the wrong pair of headphones can be equally detrimental. Maybe the sound is too tinny or the earbuds won't stay put. Maybe after a few sweat sessions they start to fall apart or, worse, smell bad. Every runner is different, but every runner who runs with music appreciates the beauty of the right pair of headphones.


While I'm no tech writer, I am a runner who listens to music -- and I most certainly sweat[2] . Which is why I jumped at the chance to take some of the biggest names in the active headphone game out for a spin.


Before we get into my favorites, a few notes about how I conducted this oh-so-scientific test:


The Test Drive

I wore each pair of headphones during a 20- to 30-minute jog along the same stretch of the path along the Hudson River in New York City, at a moderate pace, while listening to the same 10 or so songs.


Two Types Of Quality

I rated sound quality on a scale of one to five, one being "meh", three being average and five being sensational. Durability also got a one to five score, with one being "handle with care" and five being "feel free to toss 'em in your gym bag."


Sound Isolation Isn't Always A Good Thing

When you're listening to music on, say, a long airplane flight, you're probably looking for something that blocks out all other sound. When you're listening to music on a run through a busy city, you need to be able to hear some of the important auditory cues around you. Experts call this "situational awareness." I prefer to drown out my own heavy breathing, but I have to be able to hear the bicyclists and drivers around me. I rated each set of headphones on a one to five scale here as well, but a three was the ideal. A one meant I could hear every surrounding sound, while a five meant I heard no surrounding sound, technically no good for a city runner.


Every Ear Is Different

Just like with running sneakers[3] and sports bras[4] , your experience with the headphones below will likely be somewhat different than mine. This review should be used merely as a guide, not the end-all-be-all.


These Are Not Your Average Headphones

You'll note that just about one of these headphones is affordable. But you get what you pay for, and, because many of the pricier models come with serious warrantees, they could be a worthwhile investment if you're willing to take good care of them.


Phone Calls

You can make or receive calls with most of these models. I didn't test out this feature -- mainly because most of my test runs occurred around 7 a.m., and I don't know many people who would really want to hear from me at that hour. For a review of making phone calls with a number of these models, as well as some really impressive testing methods that would have gotten me in big trouble, head over to The Wire Cutter's review from earlier this year[5] .


Here's What I Found:


BOSE SIE2i

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Sound Quality: 5. I put these babies in and did an auditory double-take. So this is what I've been missing!


Noise Isolation: 3. I couldn't hear my panting, but I did hear a particularly loud air conditioner that I mistook for an approaching person!


Fit & Comfort: The StayHear tips fit snuggly under the ridge of your ear, just above the ear canal. A set includes three interchangeable StayHear pieces to accommodate a range of ear sizes. I expected to feel some pressure from the piece that slid under the ridge of my ear, but instead I felt... nothing! These are so light, at times I thought they were slipping out simply because I no longer felt them at all.


Cord Length: Shorter than usual, but the kit includes a cord extender if you prefer a little more length. There's also a clip about halfway down the cord that allows you to fasten extra length to your clothes and prevent bouncing. The SIE2i model is designed to operate with Apple devices, so I could adjust the volume and song order with the buttons on the headphones, as well as operate my phone via voice commands. There's also an SIE2 model that works with most other devices.


Durability: 4


The Sweating Situation: There was zero budge as my ears got slicker. The packaging calls these sweat- and weather-resistant, so you won't want to submerge them in water but you can certainly wipe 'em down.


Bells & Whistles: The headphones also come with a nifty Reebok armband, complete with a small pocket for a key.


Cost: $149.95 [6] on the Bose website. If you just want the SIE2 model, those will set you back $119.95.


Philips ActionFit Sports Headband Headphones

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Sound Quality: 4.5. The bass was rich and heart-pounding, even at higher volumes.


Noise Isolation: 3. I expected to have to really crank up the volume, since on-ear models typically allow in more ambient noise, but these struck a good balance. I could hear the middle-aged couple running behind me approaching, which definitely pushed me to go faster.


Fit & Comfort: The ear cushions are plump and sumptuous, although I always wonder how makes like these will hold up over many, many sweaty hours, since I basically eroded a pair a few years back. They're incredibly lightweight and not too tight. The non-slip headband helped keep everything in place without squeezing, although I did get a little jiggle on one side.


Cord Length: A little long, but the included cord clip helps keep bounce to a minimum.


Durability:3. The cable is outfitted with a Kevlar coating to withstand any potential tears. The silicone headband doesn't seem easily breakable, although I do always worry slightly about snapping something that doesn't fold. The set comes with a pouch to carry them in, but it's just cloth.


The Sweating Situation: The ear cushions are detachable and washable, and the whole shebang is sweat-resistant and rainproof. Sweating didn't move these babies a millimeter.


Bells & Whistles: The on-ear design is the big perk here, since there aren't many non-earbud active options. Note that there's no remote on the cable, so you'll have to manage volume and track order from your device.


Cost: $99.99[7] , according to the Philips website


Polk UltraFit 3000

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Sound Quality: 3.5. I wasn't completely blown away here, but I was definitely pleased.


Noise Isolation: 3. These were a happy medium of isolation and safety. For example, I could hear giving his order to the guy selling coffee on the corner.


Fit & Comfort: With three sizes of silicone ear tips, two pairs of three-tiered silicone ear tips that I found were the best shape for my ears and two pairs of memory foam tips for additional sound isolation (save those for the treadmill), you'd be hard-pressed to not find some combination that works for you. Once I found the right option, I could hardly feel 'em. The over-the-ear section is flexible and bendable, but secures nicely in place and doesn't bounce while running.


Cord Length: Also customizable! The set comes with a 14-inch cable and a 41-inch cable, although only the latter has a remote control. The remote was kind of a dud, though: The volume controls worked fine, but it was nearly impossible to use the central button to change the song. I found myself fumbling and frustrated more than once.


Durability: 5. These also has a Kevlar-enhanced cord for serious lasting power. They also come with a compact carrying case, and the bendable design eliminates fear of snapping.


The Sweating Situation: The Polk website explains that these are protected by "moisture shield technology" that "deflects and resists moisture". They also didn't budge when I got sweaty.


Bells & Whistles: The customization is the big perk here. These are designed to operate with Apple products, but the very similar UltraFit 3000a[8] offer an option for Android users, too.


Cost: $79.95[9] according to the Polk website


AfterShokz Sportz M2

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Sound Quality: 2. The unique design of these headphones, which sit on the jawbone right in front of your ear, is meant to send "stereophonic sound" to the inner ear via the cheekbones[10] . Really. That means that a lot of the sound is projected outward, rather than into the ear, to allow for situational awareness (more on that below), but to me it sounded thin.


Noise Isolation: 2. Situational awareness is top priority for the Sportz 2. They err on the side of delivering on their message, while compromising sound quality to do so.


Fit & Comfort: Despite the snug fit against my jawbone and the wraparound band, I hardly felt them after I got going, and they didn't move an inch.


Cord Length: The cord length is about average, but in place of the typical remote control, the AfterShokz have an "in-line controller" that's significantly bulkier and heavier. It's meant to be clipped to your shirt, but even so it bounced and pulled.


Durability: 5. The wraparound band is a light but firm plastic, and the kit comes complete with a sturdy carrying case, which makes tossing it in your gym bag pretty fail-proof.


The Sweating Situation: The box calls these sweat-proof and water-resistant, so I felt good about running with them in the drizzle. When my face got sweaty, they didn't slip or slide.


Bells & Whistles: The in-line controller allows you to make calls and adjust the volume, but there's no feature that allows you to skip songs. These headphones need to be charged via USB, but you're good to go for 12 hours after a full charge.


Cost: $69.95[11] on the AfterShokz website


Monster iSport Freedom

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Sound Quality: 3.5. And apparently they only get better: The user's manual says to break them in (really!) and that they'll sound best after about 20 hours of playback.


Noise Isolation: 5. They are not kidding about the noise isolation touted on the packaging. Save these for your treadmill runs -- I was actually startled a couple of times when cyclists zoomed past me.


Fit & Comfort: The ear cushions are luxurious, but even after repositioning the headband a couple of times, I kept hearing the bounce of my own footsteps, thanks to what's known as the occlusion effect[12] . You know that annoying amplification of internal sounds, like chewing, when you're wearing headphones? Yeah, not good.


Cord Length: Wireless -- hence the "Freedom" name! Charge them for about an hour and a half before you hook 'em up to your phone via Bluetooth, and you're good for about 10 hours of sound.


Durability: 3. These headphones are collapsible, so you can essentially fold them in half to prevent snapping in your gym bag. But they're still bulkier and a little stiffer than other models I tried, so I'd handle with a little extra TLC. They do come with a convenient carrying pouch, but it's nothing protective.


The Sweating Situation: Since they're water-resistant and sweat-proof, I felt safe getting sweaty in these, and reassured by the fact that I could wipe down the ear cushions after. Sweat didn't seem to change how they bounced.


Bells & Whistles: This is Monster's first iSport model that sits on top of the ear[13] , a welcome addition to the (skimpy) pool of options for people who aren't big fans of in-ear headphones. The on-ear controls allow you to conveniently change the song and volume and take calls -- once you get used to them, that is, as you can't exactly see what you're pressing!


Cost: $279.95, available in the U.S. in October, according to Monster reps


Jaybird Bluebuds X

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Sound Quality: 4. Really great, without having to crank up the volume.


Noise Isolation: 3.5. Still safe, but on the side of more isolating than you might be comfortable with. The plus side was that I didn't have to turn the volume up to get a good sound, so I felt safe running on the street.


Fit & Comfort: These earbuds are extremely customizable. The kit comes with three different sizes of ear tips, plus three different sizes of what's called Secure Fit Ear Cushions, which are tucked under the folds of your ears for maximum hold. The buds can be worn both over and under the ears, and the wraparound cable can be shortened with tiny cord clips around the back of your head. The over-the-ear style is a little more advanced and trickier to set up, so I stuck with the under-ear style. It took a few minutes to get used to the pressure of the ear cushions, but after the first five minutes of my run I was in love.


Cord Length: Wireless! They connect with your iPhone via Bluetooth, leaving you free to move as you please. The wraparound cord is not long at all, especially after adjusted to fit your head, and didn't bounce much as I ran.


Durability: 5. The Bluebuds come equipped with a solid carrying case, but even without them, the materials are pretty sturdy, and I would have no problem throwing them into a gym bag.


The Sweating Situation: The box boasts a "lifetime warranty against sweat" thanks to Liquipel Water Repellant Nano Technology. Don't dunk 'em in the tub, but feel free to get sweaty in these bad boys. Mine didn't slip whatsoever.


Bells & Whistles: Aside from the many, many ways in which to wear these, they also have a remote control on the cord so you don't have to fumble with your phone while you run. The Bluebuds are the official training headphones of the USA Triathlon, so you know they're legit. After a full charge, you should be good to go for eight hours of music.


Cost: $169.95[14] on the Jaybird website


Shure SE215

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Sound Quality: 3.5. I wanted more bass, to be honest.


Noise Isolation: 5. These headphones are not technically designed for exercise, but judging by online reviews, a number of people swear by them. They deliver on their promise to be sound isolating, a feature indoor exercisers may love, but one that left me uncomfortable on the sidewalk.


Fit & Comfort: The earbuds come equipped with six different tips, three sizes in silicone and three sizes in foam. They're a little difficult to put in, but when inserted properly they fit snugly like an earplug. The over-the-ear cord is a nice touch that added to the comfort of this pair, but the buds started to slip out of my ear as I moved. Because they require a little more attention than normal to insert, it wasn't easy to correct them while running.


Cord Length: Too long and too heavy, with no clips and no remote control on the cord.


Durability: 4. The kit comes with a compact carrying case to keep them safe in a bag.


The Sweating Situation: Not great. The Shure rep insisted that these are sweat-proof, but there's no mention of it on the packaging or website, except to say to keep the headphones as dry and as a clean as possible... whoops.


Bells & Whistles: The sound isolation is really the big draw here, but I wouldn't recommend them for outdoor runners.


Cost: $99[15] , according to the Shure website


Beats by Dre Powerbeats

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Sound Quality: I was so looking forward to trying these, given all the Beats by Dre hype, but they were only a 3.5 to me.


Noise Isolation: A solid 3. The Powerbeats website highlights road running safety and doesn't disappoint.


Fit & Comfort: There's a little too much going on here. While I appreciate the small, medium and large buds, once the small ones were in my ears, the rest of the headphones felt bulky and in the way. The over-the-ear loop is flexible so you can secure the headphones as loosely or tightly as you please, but I had to make them tighter than I'd prefer to truly eliminate bounce. I could tell that had I worn these for closer to an hour, my ears would be tired of them.


Cord Length: Perfect. And for bigger bodies -- like Lebron James, who teamed up with Dre to craft these -- there's also a cord extender included in the set. There's a handy clip to keep some of the excess out of the way, and the cord has volume and voice controls. The settings were on the left side, a departure from what I'm used to, which threw me off slightly.


Durability: 4. These were designed with durability in mind, according to the Powerbeats website. Since the over-the-ear loops are flexible, there's less worry about them snagging in your gym bag. The set also includes a slim but sturdy carrying case.


The Sweating Situation: Once securely fastened in place, these aren't going anywhere -- but they sacrifice comfort slightly to do so. They're also sweat- and water-resistant, and the ear tips can be removed for regular cleaning.


Cost: $134.95[16] on the Beats by Dre website


Yurbuds Inspire Talk for Women

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Sound Quality: 2.5. Without a doubt, the lower price point means lower-quality sound. There wasn't much bass and the sound overall wasn't as clear as some of the higher-end models. That said, they still do the job, and the other perks below make these a smart pick.


Noise Isolation: 3. The unique shape of these earbuds was designed specifically to allow ambient noise in so you stay aware during your workout.


Fit & Comfort: Thanks to patent-pending Twist Lock[17] technology, the Yurbuds shouldn't budge. You insert the "sound tunnel" part of the bud, then twist the whole earpiece into place. They felt snug without feeling too tight. The set also includes a larger earbud, and the Inspire for Men is larger still, also with two different sizes.


Cord Length: Medium to long, but so lightweight I hardly noticed. The men's kit comes with a cord clip, but not the women's.


Durability: 5. The earbuds themselves are soft and squishy, so I wouldn't worry about tossing them around, and the cord has lots of give. If you're looking for a little extra on the durability front, the Yurbuds Duro[18] have a cloth cord that purports to be tangle- and tear-resistant -- with a lifetime warranty.


The Sweating Situation: The buds are sweat-, water- and germ-resistant and don't budge when the going gets sweaty.


Bells & Whistles: This set has a one-button remote control on the cord that allows for making phone calls, stopping and starting the music and switching to the next song -- and they're compatible with iPhone, Android and Blakckberry devices. The Inspire Pro (available in both men's and women's sizes) has a three-button remote that also allows you to adjust the volume (it costs more). There's also a cheaper model sans remote. The men's package included a slim carrying case, but no such luck for the ladies.


Cost: $39.99[19] , according to the Yurbuds website. The Pro model for both men and women is $59.99[20] , and the original is $29.99[21] .


Sennheiser adidas PMX 685i Sports

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Sound Quality: A solid 4. But because of the fit, I had to keep turning the volume up, to a point where it got a little uncomfortable.


Noise Isolation: Situational awareness is highlighted on the website for this pair, which would be a solid 3, but since I had increased the volume quite a bit, they felt more like a less ideal 4.


Fit & Comfort: These headphones are so surprisingly lightweight. The wraparound style can often add weight and pull on the ears, but I hardly felt these. The actual ear buds felt too large for my ears, and sat lower and farther outside the ear than I'm used to. Still, they stayed put when I ran.


Cord Length: A little long and a little inflexible, but the movable cord clip helped keep some of that out of the way. The remote control was once again on the left.


Durability: By default, wraparound styles seem slightly more delicate thanks to that plastic band threatening to snap at any moment. Because this make is so delightfully lightweight, the band seems even more flimsy, so I'd give it a 2.


The Sweating Situation: I felt okay taking these out for a spin during a light drizzle, since they are sweat- and water-resistant. They didn't move because of my sweating or the weather.


Bells & Whistles: Designed to operate with Apple products, I could take calls via the control on the cord along with changing the song. The headset is also designed to fit comfortably beneath a bike helmet.


Cost: $79.95[22] , according to the Sennheiser website


Klipsch Image A5i Sport In-Ear Headphones

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Sound Quality: 4. At a moderate volume, the sound is superb, easily a 5. But when I pumped up the volume to where I'd ideally keep it for maximum motivation, the sound got a little thin.


Noise Isolation: 5. Yikes. I didn't hear a bike coming up behind me until the front wheel was at my heels. I kept the volume significantly lower than I typically would so it didn't happen again. I'd recommend these strictly for treadmill runs.


Fit & Comfort: To die for. The patented oval ear tips -- which come in four sizes -- really make a difference when it comes to forming a tight and snug seal in your ear. The earbud is attached by a flexible wire that allows you to bend and shape it into the right angle for your ear, while the over-the-ear loop keeps the rest of the design snug. I couldn't feel them at all once they were in.


Cord Length: A little long, and slightly heavy thanks to the remote control. Luckily, the cord clip is attached to the remote, so you can fasten that heaviest part to your shirt to avoid excess pulling on your ears.


Durability: 5. The kit comes with a carrying case, but this was one of the few pairs I tried that I didn't even think needed it. And if the Kevlar cord doesn't convince you, the two-year warranty might!


The Sweating Situation: These earbuds are moisture- and sweat-resistant, so feel free to wipe 'em down after a tough workout. As I got sweatier, they thankfully stayed right in place.


Bells & Whistles: Designed to operate with Apple products, you can adjust volume, switch songs and take calls with the three-button remote. There's a neat little looping system on the front of the headphones that allows you to tuck excess cord around the bottom of your ears for a snugger, more bounce-free fit that I haven't seen on other models.


Cost: $129.99[23] , according to the Klipsch website




What's your favorite pair of workout headphones? Let us know in the comments below. And while you're at it, let us know what else we should try -- we're your guinea pigs, after all!





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  • Lululemon Energy Bra


    <strong>What's It For: </strong>Yoga, Walking <strong>Size: </strong>4-12 <strong>Price:</strong> $46.00 <strong>Bells and Whistles:</strong> "Removable cups (though I kept them in), COOLMAX liner kept moisture off my skin." <em>Our 36C says...</em> This bra is meant for yoga, but I wore it while doing brisk walking and it offered plenty of support It was fitted without being too snug or tight -- very comfortable -- but I did not like the florescent tangerine color. My breasts were secured but not harnessed. I imagine there are plenty of other medium coverage options for less money. I would do a thorough search before plunking down nearly 50 bucks for this bra. That said, it's very well designed and would probably last a long time. <em>Our 32D says...</em> I took this one through a Vinyasa flow. Many medium coverage bras can be perilous, especially during inversions, but this one felt pleasingly secure. And it looked nice -- I'd probably wear it under a tank top in the summer just to bike around.




  • Lululemon Flow Y Bra IV


    <strong>What's It For: </strong>Yoga and the gym <strong>Size: </strong>2-10 <strong>Price:</strong> $42.00 <strong>Bells and Whistles:</strong> Luon fabric <em>Our 32C says...</em> I used it for a My Ballet Beautiful DVD. It's simple and clean, and if you like a thin strapped bra that you can't see under a workout tank, you'll be pleased. It has removable cups, which I appreciated (and immediately took out). My sample was a really bright, fluorescent color -- like a green-y yellow? -- that glowed through a white t-shirt and even a tan sweater when I was puttering around my apartment after working out. Not my favorite look, but also not what I would have bought for myself, so sort of a moot point. It's generally comfortable. I was surprised that the straps, though thin, pulled on my shoulders a bit after a couple of hours. Maybe that's a sizing issue? I did like the so-called "luon fabric," which was pretty stretchy and kept me secure, but also felt like a comfy, cotton bra. It also kept my breasts separated, which was nice -- no uni-boob.




  • Lululemon Pace Bra


    <strong>What's It For: </strong>Running <strong>Size: </strong>2-12 <strong>Price:</strong> $52.00 <strong>Bells and Whistles:</strong> "This bra offers a very unique take on the 'halter' style bra. Imagine a sleeveless shirt with a hole in the middle of your back-- that’s what this bra feels like, but with straps, or as Lululemon calls it 'four-way stretch power' with an 'open back for airflow.' It even has a pocket to stash your house key in!" <em>Our 34C says...</em> I ran in this bra as it specified, but I also tried indoor cycling. The bra worked splendidly for both activities. I felt more supported than I’d ever had during my spin class. I was under the impression that riding on a bike caused more “bounce” than running and that was just the way things were. This bra entirely shifted my perspective. If you are an active indoor cycler and sympathize with the “bounce” sensation then this bra could probably alleviate it. It also provided great support while running outside. The straps were very light as well, which feels great when the weather is on the warmer side. The comments on the website complain about a “uniboob” which I can understand, but was not bothered by. I get sweaty in both of these activities and found the moisture wicking on this bra to be fantastic. I am one of those ladies who is extremely picky about the comfort of lingerie. It took me years to grow accustomed to the ubiquitous halter sports bra. The Pace bra struck me as unbearably odd when I first wore it. I got used to it quickly though. It fit perfectly even if the straps were a jarring feeling initially. While the straps take some getting used to -- if you’re a weirdo like me who found the introduction of bras the most traumatizing part of middle school, then you’ll agree. Normal women will probably enjoy the straps since they are built specifically to create support with minimal fabric.




  • Moving Comfort Fiona


    <strong>What's It For: </strong>High-impact sports <strong>Size: </strong>30B to 44DD <strong>Price:</strong> $46.00 <strong>Bells and Whistles:</strong> "Bright color" <em>Our 32C says...</em> I jogged, on the treadmill, and had a moderate workout on the elliptical machine. The Fiona has an adjustable back closure, which means you can play around with the fit, but coupled with the padded cups, it looked a little goofy to me. (My husband saw it sitting out and asked if it was a training bra.) I liked the bright color -- mine was purple -- and the contrast piping on the straps, which gave it a little pizzaz. The fit on the Fiona was pretty great, largely because I was able to play around with the adjustable back closure and the adjustable straps (they've got concealed hook-and-loop closures). But I had to run around in my apartment a bit to make sure I got everything just right. Once I adjusted it, the bra was really comfortable and provided plenty of support. One complaint, and this is a biggie for me: Though it had molded cups that I hoped would do a good job of providing coverage, my nipples were definitely showing pretty prominently when I went on my run. <em>Our 34C says...</em> I ran outside and did indoor cycling. Loved the colors, purple and green were very pretty, but the straps are like a normalbra, which I had some issues with during my running experiment but not while spinning. Fiona fits pretty well. The straps go over the shoulders like a traditional bra. I’ve noticed that most sports bras employ a “halter” style, which, I’ve found ultimately does provide more support for me. I am super picky with bras and I found the clasp in the back very distracting when I went for a run. It felt clunky and uncomfortable, something I wasn’t as bothered by during my spinning class. I am more accustomed to sports bras that do not require a clasp, but I am a fortunate size, where I can have that luxury. I understand that the clasp of this bra is intended to provide more support for buxom athletes. I felt pretty supported during my spinning class. I never once thought about the sweat absorption, which is positive. However I did not find this easy to put on and take off or super intuitive to adjust. I felt more supported during spinning than I did during running even though this bra is intended more for running according to its website. I’d say this is best for spinning, but since the bra straps are similar to a basic t-shirt bra I think you could wear this for a everyday use too -- if you found it comfortable, which I did not.




  • Moving Comfort Alexis Bra


    <strong>What's It For: </strong>High-impact sports <strong>Size: </strong>32AB to 40A <strong>Price:</strong> $34.00 <strong>Bells and Whistles:</strong> Wicking <em>Our 34B says...</em> I wore it on a jog and to a Spinning class. The tag calls the Alexis "the 'wonder bra' of sports bras." Without knowing I was wearing anything out of the ordinary, two of my closest fitness friends (so they're allowed to say things like this) noticed something was different -- in a good way. Then we launched into a passionate discussion of how little we care what our breasts look like when we're exercising. Girl power! I love the mesh across the top and back, and the thin straps. And I'm obsessed with the way this bra fits. The cups provide subtle support, and the thin straps are totally flattering. But after I started sweating, I never felt the wicking kick in. The sweatier I got, the more the cups began to feel like stiff plastic stuck to me. I found myself continuously wanting to pull the bra away from my body during the second half of my workouts. Plus, the straps adjust so far down the back, I couldn't fix the fit once it was already on. Overall, the shaping and support were spot on, but there was little ventilation or moisture control. <em>Our second 34B says...</em> I ran five miles in this little number. This looks like the first bikini I ever owned. It is ugly. I received the “violet/jungle cat/lime” color -- there are two other color options that are much less offensive seeming. The thin straps are appealing and I liked the mesh cleavage window -- a little treat just for me! That said, this bra felt too big all over -- the straps, even when adjusted to the tightest form, didn’t pull the body of the bra up as high as I needed it. The bra was loose around my ribcage and armpits as well. I thought this would lead to chafing, but it didn’t. The fabric did not seem to absorb any sweat, which made my boobs feel steamy and uncomfortable.




  • Moving Comfort Jubralee


    <strong>What's It For: </strong>High-impact sports <strong>Size: </strong>30B to 44DD <strong>Price:</strong> $54.00 <strong>Bells and Whistles:</strong> Wicking <em>Our 36E says...</em> I ran on the treadmill and elliptical, and did weights. This bra was super sporty but girly at the same time, which I liked. It's a deep purple with neon green accents. I sort of felt like I was wearing a pair of hip Nikes on my chest! The pros were that it was very tight, which I definitely need. As a large-chested woman, I often am forced to wear two bras at once during my workout. With the Jubralee, I was very comfortable wearing just one, and felt well tucked in. I'm not sure I've ever used such a supportive bra without an underwire, which was cool. Unfortunately, there were some cons too. If supportive bras are not an issue you struggle with, I could see how this would be a little too restrictive. As mentioned, there was no underwire in this bra, which specifically boasts support. I think an underwire normally balances out that suffocating feeling, which might be overwhelming for some people. Also the straps were a little low and not adjustable, which I would have preferred.




  • Moving Comfort Endurance Racer


    <strong>What's It For: </strong>Jogging <strong>Size: </strong>30C to 38DD <strong>Price:</strong> $52.00 <strong>Bells and Whistles:</strong> "The label promised that the 'unique racer-back style adds support and makes getting dressed or undressed a breeze' but I found it very tricky to get on and off." <em>Our 36C says...</em> This bra did provide "powerful support" as advertised. It fit well (once I shimmied into it) and provided a lot of support. It pinched a bit but that may be because I needed a larger size. The material didn't keep me particularly dry.




  • Moving Comfort Rebound Racer


    <strong>What's It For: </strong>Jogging <strong>Size: </strong>30B to 38DD <strong>Price:</strong> $50.00 <strong>Bells and Whistles:</strong> "None, as far as I could tell." <em>Our 32D says...</em> I used this to run three miles. I've got a small rib cage and a big cup size, which means that the pull-over, one-size-fits-most ethos of the sports bra world doesn't exactly work for me. I need something that's snug around my body, but also leaves enough room up top. The rebound racer really fit the bill in this regard: I didn't move at all while I was running. Stylistically, the mint green color and distressed fabric were pleasing, although I did have a touch of uniboob. It seemed, all things considered, like a small price to pay for a fully-supported chest.




  • Under Armour Protegee


    <strong>What's It For: </strong>Running and high impact sports <strong>Size: </strong>A through DD <strong>Price:</strong> $49.99 <strong>Bells and Whistles:</strong> "This zip-front bra is made with Under Armour's patented HeatGear to help wick moisture away and keep you cool. It's also built for maximum, chafe-free support." <em>Our 34B says...</em> I wore the Protegée during a soccer game. Let's just get the elephant in the room out of the way: A zip-frontbra is more than a little sexy. I'm not saying I <em>don't</em> like that, I just question its priorities. I absolutely love the all-mesh back. I usually buy sports bras a little on the small side, but the Protegée seems to run a little <em>too</em> small. I thought maybe I needed to take my inhaler before realizing it was the chest band of the bra stealing my air. The Protegée also emphasized that annoying little armpit roll -- you know the one. Everyone <em>has</em> it, but we certainly don't need to emphasize it, am I right?! I can't fault Under Armour completely -- I'm sure one size bigger would make a world of difference. Because of the small fit, there was a bit of a uniboob effect, but that doesn't bother me as long as it's in the name of maximum support. And there's even "anti-microbial technology" involved to help keep the bra odor-free the longer you wear it. Under Armour isn't kidding when they say this model is built for high impact. Despite running and jumping all over the soccer field, there was hardly any movement up top -- surprising, since I figured there was no way a flimsy zipper could hold much in. <em>Our 32A says...</em> I ran a little over 2 miles outdoors, and then on another day, played two hours of indoor volleyball in this bra. Simple, classic sports bra design in a dark color (which I always appreciate). Supportive straps (not too thick, not too thin), with a racerback. It comes on and off via a front zipper, which I found <em>extremely</em> convenient. I am slim but have athletic shoulders, so sports bras that require having to stretch the entire thing over my head usually result in a lot of painful body contortions. But not so with this bra. Also, I really appreciated that the bra had some <em>very</em> slight padding (it's probably fairer to say it had a cup molding, versus padding). As a "small-figured" woman, wearing sports bras usually make me look like a teenage boy, so I really appreciated that there was a cup-like aspect to this bra. The bra fit great -- I forgot that I was wearing it for most of my exercises. The only thing is that my shoulders felt a little tugged-at, particularly when I played volleyball in it (I'm a setter, and when I look up and raise my arms up to set the ball, it kind of constrains a bit) -- perhaps I should've gone up a size? -- but it wasn't anything major. I felt really supported and I didn't experience fabric digging into my skin or any chafing, nor did I feel overly sweaty in the chest area.




  • Champion Show-Off Sports Bra


    <strong>What's It For: </strong>Maximum support during runs <strong>Size: </strong>32A through 38DD <strong>Price:</strong> $25.99 <strong>Bells and Whistles:</strong> None <em>Our 34DD says...</em> I used it during the elliptical machine, fast walking/jogging and an exercise DVD. I was really excited about the fit of this bra -- it felt like maybe sports bras were finally catching up to the regular bra world when it comes to sizing. But it didn't hold up for me under vigorous exercise. I'd recommend it for something a little gentler, especially if your chest is large. This bra fit great, but it didn't hold everything down the way I'd prefer during particularly vigorous exercise. It also felt like it was riding up in the back and digging in in the front toward the end of my elliptical workout. <em>Our 34B says...</em> I wore the Show-Off to do Pilates in my living room, during a soccer game and, just for the heck of it, while moving a whole bunch of furniture (that counts as strength-training, right?). I've never worn a nicer-looking sports bra. The contrasting teal panels are lovely, and the thin straps give it a modern look. The racerback is thinner than I'm used to, which makes the cut around the arms more flattering. Sufficiently supportive without feeling <em>too</em> tight. Best of all is the fact that the straps adjust in the <em>front</em>, unlike any other sports (or everyday!) bra I've ever worn. You can actually adjust it while it's on, assuring the proper fit. This bra almost made me want to run shirtless. But as good as it made me look -- and this is a feeling I'll repeat through my reviews -- I'm not sure <em>why</em> that's important in a sports bra. Then I found myself questioning this thought process: If there exist sports bras to make me look this good, <em>should</em> I be caring how good I look when I work out? But I just cannot stress about that. The wicking and ventilation were great, as was the full coverage and swoon-worthy adjustability. I can't say enough about how much I love these straps; why hasn't anyone else thought of this?! For me, the level of support was better for lower-intensity activities. During my soccer game, I found myself wanting to continuously tighten the straps. And, while it's certainly not a feature I've ever considered <em>necessary</em> in a sports bra, they're not kidding about the "complete nipple coverage for modesty." Inside each cup is an extra layer of (flower-shaped) lining, reminiscent of a burlesque performer's pastie.




  • adidas Climacool Supernova Racer Bra


    <strong>What's It For:</strong> Maximum support during runs <strong>Size: </strong>XS-XL <strong>Price:</strong> $40.00 <strong>Bells and Whistles:</strong> "Fitted fit" and "climacool" technology <em>Our 34DD says...</em> I have to say I thought this bra was pretty perfect. I often layer a bra with a tight tank-top underneath my workout t-shirt to make sure everything is secure, but I think I could get away with wearing this bra on its own, sans tank top. The bra definitely supported its load. I felt totally comfortable moving vigorously on the elliptical machine, and forgot I was even wearing a different bra from usual. The criss-crossed back made me feel secure (and bounce-free). The tags promise a "climacool" system to keep you ventilated and dry -- I had no complaints! The fit was nice for a big-chested girl. I would have liked to have been able to adjust the strap length, but it wasn't totally necessary. It's lightly padded which I appreciate for the coverage (though I definitely don't want any extra volume in that area).




  • Adidas Techfit


    <strong>What's It For:</strong> Running and high-intensity workouts <strong>Size: </strong>XS-XL <strong>Price:</strong> $25.00 <strong>Bells and Whistles:</strong> "CLIMACOOL" ventilation to wick away heat and sweat. <em>Our 32A says...</em> I used it for running. I didn't feel gross and sticky around that area, and I felt well-supported (maybe because it was so tight, but hey, if it gets the job done…). I really liked the style. It was simple (I had the black color), with no frills -- but after all, it's a sports bra, it doesn't have to be fancy! The back was a slim mesh racerback, which I also thought looked cool. It fit well … but boy was it hard to get on. This thing is so fitted and not that stretchy that I felt a little bit like I was doing contortion tricks to get it over my head. (Not going to lie, I got stuck twice trying to get it on.) However, <em>once</em> on, it fit great -- I didn't notice any pulling on the straps, the cup part was fine, and the band -- while initially tight -- seemed to stretch out the longer I wore it. However, if my experience trying to get this thing on my body is similar to anyone else's wearing this bra, I would recommend ordering a size bigger than you normally would.




  • Stella McCartney For Adidas miCoach


    <strong>What's It For:</strong> Running and the gym <strong>Size: </strong>XS-L <strong>Price:</strong> $90.00 <strong>Bells and Whistles:</strong> Stella McCartney <em>Our 34C says...</em> I went to an indoor cycling class and ran on the treadmill. The treadmill didn’t make me feel too “jiggly,” amazingly. However, much of my delight dissipated after I tried an indoor cycling class with this bra. I felt all over the place! It was unpleasant and actually very distracting. The product information suggests this bra should be worn for its “tight fit” and “support,” neither of which I experienced, however, I imagine wearing a small would have been much more effective for me (in life I’m more likely a medium). The fabric seemed fine, nothing too impressive, but it’s very lite and comfortable. I'd reserve this for things that aren't super vigorous. I’d try hiking, walking or yoga with this one. Running on the treadmill worked fine for me too, though I went at a moderate pace for a long stretch of time. The bra is so lovely to behold you might just want to go shirtless to show off!




  • Brooks Epiphany Bra II


    <strong>What's It For:</strong> High-intensity exercise and running <strong>Size: </strong>S-XL <strong>Price:</strong> $44.00 <strong>Bells and Whistles:</strong> Support <em>Our 32C says...</em> I jogged on the treadmill. I LOVED THE FIT OF THIS BRA -- full caps. I like a snug sports bra and this was exactly that, without pulling or chafing anywhere. The tag somewhat gloriously said the bra offers "enhanced modesty where it counts" (whatever do you mean, Brooks?), but credit where credit is due: Without any padding, it provided full nipple coverage on a tough run in a thin t-shirt. I also liked the look of this bra -- it's pretty traditional in its sportiness and clean design, but has a double strap racer back design that adds a bit of visual interest. I'm not one for padding or cups in my sports bra, and this had neither. For me -- a relatively active, relatively narrow-backed size C -- this one just worked. <em>Our 36D says...</em> I ran and took a hip hop dance class. It claims to be the “most supportive bra” and is supposed to be comfortable because there is no underwire. This bra was too tight underneath and didn’t provide full coverage. It gave me some “side boob” and also pushed them together so I was busting out a bit. When you’re a 36D, you don’t need extra cleavage. <em>Our 36B says...</em> I ran. I like things to stay, um, properly contained when I exercise. I’m not incredibly well-endowed but do have a wide upper body and broad shoulders -- honestly, if I could tape down my chest before every run (and still be able to breathe/move properly), I probably would. This bra rocked. Everything stayed perfectly in its place and was comfortable at the same time, which isn’t an easy feat to achieve. And I felt properly covered, too -- the bra comes up a bit higher in the front, and I appreciated that. The one I tried had a sea-green base with purple straps and hot pink threads. Color and style probably shouldn’t matter to me, since I always wear a T-shirt or tank over my sports bra when exercising, but there’s something to be said about a fun, colorful bra! I’m a firm believer that fun colors make working out more enjoyable. Of the bras I tried, this one by far had the best and most comfortable fit. I loved the double straps and felt they helped to better distribute support. I also sweat a lot, but not once did I feel overheated during my run. Overall, I felt sporty and sexy in this!




  • Brooks Versatile


    <strong>What's It For:</strong> Running and pretty much everything else <strong>Size: </strong>S-XL <strong>Price:</strong> $34.00 <strong>Bells and Whistles:</strong> Versatility <em>Our 34B says...</em> I went for a very long run in this -- my breasts didn’t notice. This bra is very straightforward: It’s a sports bra, and that’s what it looks like. Nothing to hate. I thought the mesh racerback gave it a fun, fancy twist. Brooks’ Versatile Bra gets the job done intensity-wise, but I can’t support the “comfort” claim -- since I couldn’t even feel my breasts. This puppy is tough to get on and off -- it’s extremely tight and flattening, and forced me into uniboob territory (though I don’t really mind). One exciting feature? The armpit cuts low, which means no armpit fat whatsoever. The bra holds everything in -- SO very tightly. Wear it for high impact sports, and practice your chest-passes in it. Try a bra with a little more give for a yoga class. Larger-chested ladies, stay away.




  • Brooks Infiniti


    <strong>What's It For:</strong> Running and pretty much everything else <strong>Size: </strong>XS-XL <strong>Price:</strong> $48.00 <strong>Bells and Whistles:</strong> Versatility <em>Our 34B says...</em> I went for a run. The bra’s “moisture-wicking elastic band” worked wonders -- I felt almost completely dry after the run. This bra seems like a good option for any that hate the feeling of being entirely “strapped in.” I felt supported, but there was still some room for movement. The bra has a narrow, almost halter cut that gave me some side boob, which is apparently very in these days. I thought this might feel weird while running, but I didn’t notice at all. The adjustable straps made the bra fit just right, and I liked that there were no cups to get lost in the washing machine. No complaints here. I received the “Neptune“ color -- a cobalt blue with a lime green piping that was harmless and fun. I liked the thin straps and racerback style.




  • Brooks Glycerin


    <strong>What's It For:</strong> Running <strong>Size: </strong>XS-XL <strong>Price:</strong> $40.00 <strong>Bells and Whistles:</strong>: "'strategically placed lift in the cups' for 'shaping and modesty.'" Full disclosure? I’ve never understood padded sports bras. I like things to be strapped down and immobile when I exercise, so why would I add extra stuff to that equation? I wanted to try this model so I could test my assumptions. The style I tried had a cute black and white polka-dotted pattern, and it comes in a variety of other prints. The overall fit was nice! This style has a double-strap racerback feature that is much more comfortable than other sports bras I’ve worn in the past -- no pinching or pressure on the shoulders. But it was a bit lower cut than I expected after reading the “modesty” description on the Brooks website. (However, I admittedly prefer a lot of coverage.) The padding factor took me some time to get comfortable with. We had some cleavage going on, which really isn’t my thing. But if you like a little bit of lift and oomph in your sports bra, this model would likely work great for you.