Sports Bra Guide · UK Sizing

Sports Bra Size Guide UK

Choosing the right sports bra is about more than size. Impact level, construction and brand range all matter. Here is everything you need to know — in UK sizing.

Sports bra impact level comparison — low impact bralette, medium impact sports bra, high impact encapsulation bra with labelled features

UK vs EU Sports Bra Sizing

Sports bras in the UK use the same UK band (inches) and cup (UK letters) sizing as regular bras. European sports bras use EU band sizes (cm) and EU cup letters. A UK 34D sports bra = EU 75D. A UK 34DD = EU 75E. Always check whether the label uses UK or EU sizing before buying online from a European brand.

Impact Levels Explained

The key to a good sports bra is matching it to the intensity of your activity. Here is how to choose.

Low Impact

Activities
YogaPilatesWalkingLight stretchingBarre
Sizing Advice

Your regular UK bra size. No special sports sizing needed.

Soft-cup bralettes and wire-free styles work well. Look for a snug but comfortable band. No need for encapsulation.

Medium Impact

Activities
CyclingHikingDancingWeight trainingResistance work
Sizing Advice

Your regular UK bra size. Choose a style with light compression.

Look for a wider band than your regular bra. Adjustable straps help with fit across different exercises. Underwired styles can offer good structure.

High Impact

Activities
RunningHIITAerobicsTeam sportsCrossFit
Sizing Advice

Try one cup size smaller than usual for additional compression, or choose an encapsulation bra in your true size.

For D cup and above, encapsulation bras (individual moulded cups rather than a single compression layer) provide significantly better support. Shock Absorber and Panache Sport are leading UK brands.

How to Measure for a Sports Bra (UK)

Sports bras use the exact same UK band and cup sizing as regular bras. Measure as normal — underbust for band, full bust for cup — then use our UK bra calculator to get your size. Then adjust based on impact level (see above).

  1. 1.Measure underbust (band size) — tape firmly on ribcage
  2. 2.Measure full bust (cup size) — across fullest point
  3. 3.Enter both into the calculator to get your UK size
  4. 4.For high impact activities, try one cup size smaller
  5. 5.Always try on and do the jump test before buying

The 5-Point Fit Test

Jump test: Minimal movement — no bouncing or displacement
Strap test: Straps stay in place — no digging or slipping
Band test: Band stays horizontal — you can fit two fingers under it
Cup test: No spillage at the top or sides — no fabric gaping
Comfort test: You can breathe fully and move arms freely

Best Sports Bra Brands in the UK

UK sports bra brand comparison by size range and impact level
BrandUK Size RangeImpact LevelBest For
Shock Absorber30–40 / A–JHighRunning and HIIT
Panache Sport28–40 / D–KHighLarge cups D–K
Freya Active28–38 / D–KHighComfort plus support
Nike32–40 / A–DMedium–HighEveryday training
Lululemon30–40 / A–DDMedium–HighYoga and training
M&S Sport30–44 / A–HLow–MediumBudget-friendly basics
Sweaty Betty30–38 / A–EMediumStylish activewear
Triumph Sport32–44 / A–HAll levelsVersatile range
Find My UK Bra Size