Best Hiking Sports Bras of 2025
We asked Treeline Review writers about their go-to sports bras for hiking and backpacking. Here's what they found.
Tera Kaia’s TOURA Basewear Top is one of our favorite hiking and backpacking sports bras, as seen here on a trip in the Sierra. Photo by Shawnté Salabert.
April 10th, 2025 with new models, comparison table, and what to look for
Home > Gear Reviews > Apparel > Women’s
We've spent years in search of the perfect sports bra for hiking and backpacking. A good sports bra for hiking is comfortable for days, odor resistant, and reasonably supportive–things you don't often find in the padded, wired, and extra fabric-filled sports bras for higher impact activities.
Hiking sports bras need to be comfortable enough to be worn all day for multiple days without washing. It's got to be breathable for all days in the sun and wick away sweat. We sometimes use sports bras for swimming, so it needs to be quick drying, too Most importantly, a hiking sports bra can't rub or chafe when paired with a backpack. We don't want bulk or extra padding for a hiking sports bra.
We know there isn’t a one-size-fits-all when it comes to something you wear, at least not one-size-fits-all-the-same. So we asked Treeline writers and editors to share which hiking sports bras work best for their bodies to give you a good idea of how these bras actually fit.
Fortunately, we have lots of testers with a range of body types eager to share their favorite hiking and backpacking sports bras. Here's what they shared.
Related: Best Sports Bras for AA to D Cups
Read More: Best Sports Bras for D+ Cup and Up
We create reader-supported, objective gear reviews independently selected by our editors. This story may contain affiliate links, which help fund our website. When you click on the links to purchase gear, we may get a commission, without costing you an extra cent. Thank you for supporting our work and mission of outdoor coverage for every body! Learn more.
Comparison Table
| SPORTS BRA | WHO RECOMMENDS? | SIZES | MATERIAL | STYLE | BEST FOR | MSRP* |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brawyn Essential Bralette Sports Bra | Kate Hoch | XS-XXL | 81% Extra Fine Merino, 12% Nylong, 7% Spandex | Adjustable Back Bralette | backpacking, thru-hiking, odor-resistant | $48 |
| Têra Kaia Toura Basewear Top | Shawnté Salabert | 0-12 | 82% Recycled Poly 18% Elastane | Cross Back | hiking, backpacking, climbing, weight lifting, yoga | $74 |
| Nike Indy Sports Bra | Gabi Reyes-Acosta | 1X-3X (also XS-XXL) | 78% polyester, 22% spandex | Adjustable Racer Back | hiking, backpacking | $38 |
| Smartwool Intraknit Racerback Bra | Stasia Stockwell | XS-XL | Outer 69% Nylon, 17% Elastane, 14% Poly Lining 41% Merino, 35% Lyocell, 11% Elastane | Racerback | hiking, backpacking, ski touring, odor-resistant | $75 |
| Janji The Long Bra | Mary Beth Skylis | XXS-XXXL | 68% Nylon, 32% Spandex | Racerback | trail running, road running, hiking | $68 |
The Best Hiking and Backpacking Sports Bras
Branwyn Essential Bralette Sports Bra
Best for: hiking, backpacking, thru-hiking, climbing
Sizes: XS - XXL
Material: 81% Extra Fine Merino, 12% Nylong, 7% Spandex
Style: Adjustable Back Bralette
When the threadbare bra I'd been wearing backpacking and hiking for the last 5+ years finally progressed to having full-on holes in the back, I started panicking. I've had my eye out for my next hiking bra for years. Still, nothing ever seemed to check all of my boxes: supportive enough, acceptable as a bathing suit, minimal enough to dry quickly, no poorly placed hooks or snaps that dig under a pack strap, and no removable padding that just rolls up into little hotdogs after every wash.
I was so relieved to find the Branwyn Essential Bralette! Its seamless, single-layer fabric design is super comfortable but still supportive enough for low-impact activities (I'm a 34B). I was skeptical that a merino bra would retain its shape and support for more than a few hours, but I've been pleasantly surprised to find that the fit is quite consistent for days on end. It also breathes incredibly well, something I didn't even realize was a fault of my previous bras until I started wearing the Branwyn. At the end of a long, hot climb, only the back of the bra (which is sandwiched beneath my pack) is sweaty.
I have pretty sensitive skin and was concerned about the comfort of the wool fabric. I did find the bra to be slightly scratchy when I first put it on, but after an hour or two of wear, I no longer noticed any irritation. I find the Essential Bralette to be reasonably priced, especially for merino wool.
Branwyn Essential Bralette Sports Bra
If you're unsure about this bra, Branwyn also has an amazing "first pair guarantee." It allows you to try out sizes and styles on your first order with the ability to return after wearing. That's pretty rare in the outdoor industry, so it is worth it just to see if this bra works for you. I like them so much that I own five!
-Kate Hoch, Contributing Writer
Best for: hiking, backpacking, climbing, alpine swimming, weight lifting, yoga
Sizes: 0-12
Material: 82% Recycled Poly 18% Elastane
Style: Cross back
I’ll admit—social media influenced me to purchase my very first Têra Kaia “bra,” the TOURA Basewear Top. But it was the form, fit, and function that inspired me to purchase a second.
I’d seen photos online of a handful of climbers and outdoorsy friends wearing flattering and colorful sports bras that they swore held up to all sorts of active shenanigans for days on end without accumulating stink. So when I drove past the brand’s Bishop, California storefront while en route to a backpacking trip, I decided to stop in.
The second I slipped on the TOURA, I knew I was walking out with one: because it was comfortable. The straps didn’t dig, the bottom band stayed put without slicing into my ribcage, and a pair of style options—low and high cut—allowed me to find a fit that best contained the girls without creating a dreaded uniboob.
Têra Kaia TOURA Basewear Top
I’ve worn my TOURA for yoga, weightlifting, hiking, backpacking, climbing, general lounging, and beyond. As a C-cup, I prefer a bit more compression for running, but the TOURA has truly become my go-to for all other sports.
I’ve taken it on multi-week thru-hikes; worn it nine days in a row without washing, with nary a whiff of body odor to be smelled; and used it as a swimming top more times than I can count.
Neither one shows any sign of wear or tear after several years of frequent use—no snags, no fading, no stretching. These aren’t the cheapest items in my sports bra drawer. But at the end of the day, supporting a small, women-run brand that supports my medium, woman-owned boobs feels just as good as wearing a TOURA.
- Shawnté Salabert, Contributing Writer
Nike Indy Sports Bra
Best for: hiking, backpacking, climbing, alpine swimming, weight lifting, yoga
Sizes: 1X-3X
Material: 78% polyester, 22% spandex
Style: Adjustable racer back
There seems to be a myth of the curvy woman that having a larger overall clothing size translates to having a large chest. But small chested fat women exist!
I love the Nike Indy Sports Bra because it’s light, super breathable, and meant for low-impact activity. The racerback in particular feels supportive but not constricting. It’s comfortable enough that I wear the Indy off the trail too, as I work from home and venture out locally.
The Nike Indy is a winner in our Best Sports Bras for A to D cups. Our guide to the Best Sports Bras for D+ Cups is organized by band size and cup sizes and has options for plus size folks with larger chests.
View The Nike Indy Sports Bra
I have medium-sized breasts and often find sports bras designed for a plus size woman to be thick and constricting, better suited towards high-impact workouts for large chests. That isn’t the case with the Nike Indy!
The Indy comes in several colors—I adore the Light Thistle—and it's relatively affordable for a sports bra. Nike still has a ways to go with plus size clothing options, however, as the sizing doesn’t go past a 3X. I do like that this bra is made sustainably, with at least 50% of the polyester made from recycled plastic bottles which, according to Nike’s website, “reduces carbon emissions by approximately 30% compared to virgin polyester.”
- Gabi Reyes-Acosta, Contributing writer
Best for: hiking, backpacking, bike rides, ski tours
Sizes: XS-XL
Material: Outer 69% Nylon, 17% Elastane, 14% Poly Lining 41% Merino, 35% Lyocell, 11% Elastane
Style: Racerback
I am a diehard merino wool wearer, whether it’s a sun shirt while backpacking or baselayers when ski touring. The same goes for my sports bra. For backpacking specifically, when I’m wearing a heavier pack and the same bra for days on end, I like something simple, extremely comfortable, odor resistant, and reasonably supportive. (I save high-impact bras for trail runs and opt for medium impact support when hiking in favor of comfort, and that works well for my D-cup size.)
The Smartwool Racerback hits all those marks on the nose. The wool blend fabric means I can wear it for an entire trip and not worry about smell, but the added nylon and polyester give the bra a little more support.
Smartwool Intraknit Racerback Bra
I like the seamless design of this bra, which means you basically forget about it under your backpack straps. I also appreciate the coverage: While many other merino bras I’ve tried are often too low cut, this hits just right without going overboard with extra fabric. I still have the same older version of this bra that I used for years of backpacking and mountaineering guiding, and it remains in my rotation after nearly a decade of use. That’s good durability for a sports bra!
-Stasia Stockwell, Contributing Writer
Janji Long Bra
Best for: trail running, road running, hiking
Sizes: XXS-XXXL
Material: 68% Nylon, 32% Spandex
Style: Racerback
I’m a little bit endowed in the boob department, which means that finding a proper sports bra is always an operation for me. I need it to be supportive, secure, and comfortable for long days of use…something like the Janji Long Bra. This bra hugs me in all the right places without pinching my skin. It’s lightly padded for extra comfort (but the padding is also removable, which is nice). The power mesh lining is lightweight and breathable, allowing droplets of sweat to easily evaporate rather than getting trapped and causing chafing.
Janji The Long Bra
One feature that I really love on this bra is the phone-carrying pocket. Through the years, I’ve used belts and running vests to secure my phone during long hikes, but they’re usually floppy and difficult to adjust. Being able to slip my phone between my shoulder blades is usually the reason why this bra is my first pick for all of my activities. It entirely removes that floppy phone factor, allowing me to focus on the hike or adventure at hand. Another note: this bra is long enough to wear as a crop top and provides more coverage than most, which can be a nice option in extra warm environments.
-Mary Beth Skylis, Contributing Writer
Lume Six Cirra High Impact Sports Bra
Best for: D cup + up, running, hiking, backpacking
Sizes: XS-XXL, can mix-and-match cup size and band size
Material: 76% Recycled Polyester, 24% Elastane, Lining 61% Poly, 35% cotton, 4% Spandex
Style: Racerback
Lume Six’s founder was working as a mountain bike gear designer when she realized something was missing. A capable, durable sports bra that could keep up with her…like climbing a million vertical feet on a mountain bike in one year (which she did in 2020). I wasn’t about to recreate that feat to test this sports bra, but I did make sure it was up to snuff for commuting, trail running, hiking, backpacking, alpine climbing, and a lot of daily activity.
I’ve worn, tried (and cursed) a lot of bras. In my opinion, most “sports bras” seem to be manufactured for outward appearance, rather than hard, frequent use on the trail by really active people.
Immediately, I noticed this bra is different. The materials feel different, and most importantly, achieve a bra miracle of being thin, lightweight, comfortable, and breathable, and also supportive.
Lume Six Cirra High Impact Sports Bra
There aren’t zippers or adjustable straps or any bells and whistles — it’s really just a simple, well-made gem of a bra.
There are two models: the “high impact” Cirra model is one I own.
The band size is customizable — you can get one size for the bra and a different size for the band for a better fit. Finally, Lume Six put the seams on the band on the outside — eliminating itching/chafing and perfect for those with sensory issues. Like another tester, I’m also bigger-chested , and while this bra is light, it’s still supportive, especially while running. It’s not like a traditional, bulky, padded bra. It’s wildly better. After two years, I now own two of these Lume Six bras that I rotate, and I swear by them.
-Mary Murphy, Contributing Writer & Editor
Patagonia Barely RaceRback Bra (not to be confused with the “barely everyday bra”)
Best for: A-B cup, hot, sweaty hiking and backpacking
Sizes: XS-XL
Material: 86% nylon (48% recycled), 14% Spandex
Style: Racerback
I am a B-cup and a maximally sweaty human, so I am all about the barely-there bra life (honestly mostly a no-bra-at-all life, though that doesn’t work for active pursuits). I’ll wear a properly supportive sports bra to work out, but for hiking or backpacking I prefer to trade super-supportiveness (less crucial) for light weight, breathability, and that elusive “doesn’t make me want to rip my skin off as soon as I get sweaty” quality. I’ve tried a few lightweight sports bras/bralettes, but I keep coming back to the Patagonia sports bra I’ve been wearing since like 2006 (no not the same EXACT one, ew).
The Patagonia Barely Racerback Bra is supportive without holding my ribs in a death grip, dries overnight on backpacking trips, has a racerback so straps aren’t falling down my shoulders, and is lightweight enough that, although obviously I know it’s there, I don’t resent it every step of the trip. For everything more active than walking my elderly poodle, but less active than running, this is my time-tested favorite!
- Katie Hawkes, Contributing Writer
Patagonia Barely Raceback Bra
Ortovox Essential 150 Sports Bra
Best for: B, C, D-cups that want adjustability, hiking and backpacking, odor-resistant
Sizes: XS-XL
Material: 48% Merino, 30% Lyocell, 14% Nylon, 8% Elastane
Style: Cross back
This bra hits all my needs, adjustable substantial straps, merino wool fabric and it is comfortable enough to sleep in.
The first thing I look for in a bra for hiking and especially backpacking is where the straps hit my shoulders and adjustability. I am sure that I am not the only person who can fluctuate between cup sizes depending on my current activity levels, even a short backpacking trip can make me drop a cup size. This bra has easily adjustable straps that aren’t too skinny and don’t dig into my shoulders. I appreciate the crossback style which allows for some flexibility of strap placement on my shoulders, so that they aren’t hitting in the same place as my backpack or creating sores from rubbing in the same spot.
Ortovox Essential 150 Sports Bra
The merino wool is not itchy and keeps smelling clean for days on trail. In the frontcountry I can wear this bra for several days in a row without washing it. This Ortovox bra is soft enough for sleeping and I can always loosen the straps a bit to make it more comfortable. If you want a little more support in your bra this is a great choice, especially if you hover around a C-cup size and need some adjustability.
Don’t be afraid of merino wool in summer: it isn’t hot, and this merino sports bra regulates temperature really well. It does take a little longer to dry out after a swim than some synthetic bras, but that is really the only downside to this one. I would rather spend a little longer waiting for it to dry out in the sun, than have an uncomfortable stinky bra. This bra has just the right amount of coverage and support without lots of unnecessary extra fabric or length.
-Sara “Socks” Kruglinski, Operations Coordinator
Why do you need a hiking-specific bra?
Here, two of our women's gear testers, Becca Downs (left) and Mary Murphy (right) show why having a hiking-specific sports bra is important.
Not all sports bras are created equal—especially when it comes to hiking and backpacking. While traditional sports bras (which we’ve reviewed extensively!) are designed with short bursts of high-impact movement in mind (think running or HIIT), hiking bras need to be in it for the long haul. That means being comfy, breathable, odor-resistant, and low-maintenance for all-day wear, multiple days in a row, and whatever weather or terrain your trip throws at you.
Better sweat management
Whether you’re powering up a sunny ridge or slogging through a humid forest, your hiking bra needs to handle moisture like a pro — especially since you are unlikely to be able to tear it off immediately like you might after finishing a run or gym workout. Look for materials that wick sweat away from your body and dry quickly. Bonus points if it still smells decent after a few days on trail (hi, merino!).
Prevention of chafing
Pack straps, sweat, and seams don’t mix. A good hiking bra avoids bulky seams, metal hardware, or fussy features that dig or rub under a backpack. Smooth, stretchy fabrics and wide, flat bands can make all the difference when you’re logging long miles.
All-day comfort under packs
You’ll likely be wearing your hiking bra from sunrise to sundown—and maybe even sleeping in it—so it has to feel good hour after hour. We look for bras that stay put, don’t squeeze too tight, and offer just enough support for walking, scrambling, and the occasional summit celebratory dance.
Versatility for overnight trips or hot conditions
The best hiking bras are multi-taskers. They can double as a swim top at an alpine lake, dry out quickly in the sun, and keep you cool on sweltering days or warm under layers. And if you’re heading out on a multi-day backpacking trip, you’ll definitely want a bra that can handle a few re-wears without turning toxic.
Treeline Review writer Stasia Stockwell on the trail in a Nike sports bra.
What to look for in a hiking bra
The right hiking bra can mean the difference between a comfortable day on trail and counting down the minutes until camp. It’s not just about support—it’s about how that bra handles sweat, movement, pack straps, and long hours of wear. Here’s what our testers pay attention to when choosing a bra for hiking or backpacking:
Support level based on activity and bust size
Support needs are personal. Some hikers with smaller busts can go light and minimal, while those with larger chests may want medium support even on low-impact days. That is why we asked our testers of different sizes and shapes what bras they like for hiking. No body is the same!
Think about what kind of hiking you do most—quick day hikes, overnight trips with a big pack, or high-output scrambles and peakbagging—and choose your bra accordingly. Compression-style bras work well for smaller busts, while encapsulation (with separate cups) can offer more structure for larger sizes. We explain the difference between encapsulation and compression in our general sports bras guides.
Material: quick-drying, breathable, odor-resistant
Moisture is the enemy of hikers on long days. Not only will it make you feel gross, in cooler temperatures, it could make you feel even colder. We look for bras made with merino wool blends or technical synthetics that wick sweat, dry fast, and resist odors after multiple wears. Merino is a favorite for its natural temperature regulation and stink resistance, while synthetics often dry faster and provide more structure.
Strap style: racerback, adjustable, wide straps
Straps can make or break a bra under a hiking or backpacking pack. Most of our writers find that racerbacks stay put and work well with most sun shirts or women’s hiking shirts.
Adjustable straps add versatility—especially if your size fluctuates or you want to loosen things up at camp. As writer Sara Kruglinski observed above, cup size and band size can change quickly on a backpacking trip, even over just a few days as you lose weight.
Wide, flat straps distribute weight better and are less likely to dig into your shoulders under a backpack.
Band design: compression vs encapsulation
Some hiking bras are minimalist and stretchy, offering light compression and low-profile comfort. Others offer encapsulated cups or even removable padding for more shape and support. Since hiking is a lower impact activity, most people find that a low impact sports bra is enough. Consider your comfort level with structure—many of our testers prefer minimal padding for faster drying and less bulk under a pack.
Layering and pack compatibility
If you’re wearing a hiking bra all day, it needs to play nice with your base layers and backpack. Watch for bulky seams, hooks, or clasps that could dig in under a hipbelt or shoulder strap. At least one of our testers still has scars from a metal bra clasp that dug into her back during a backpacking trip. Slim, smooth bands and low-profile backs make it easier to layer without hot spots.
Sizing inclusivity and fit
We appreciate brands that go beyond the usual S–L sizing and offer extended sizes, multiple cup options, or custom band and bust combinations. A well-fitting bra is more likely to stay comfortable all day—and more likely to work for a broader range of hikers. See our Best Plus Size Outdoor Clothing guide for more recommendations.
Seam placement and chafe prevention
Few things can ruin a hike faster than a chafing bra. Look for soft seams (or better yet, seamless construction), tagless labels, and thoughtful design that minimizes friction points. If you have sensory sensitivities or a history of hot spots, this matters even more.
Sustainability and material sourcing
We’re always happy to see bras made from recycled materials, ethically sourced wool, and eco-friendly dyes. Supporting brands that are trying to do better for the planet is just one more reason to feel good about your gear. With sports bras, we find that many brands are women-owned. As a women-owned brand ourselves, Treeline Review is thrilled to support these companies.
Sports bra vs hiking bra: What’s the difference?
You could wear your everyday sports bra on a hike—but that doesn’t mean you’ll want to. Most traditional sports bras are built for high-impact activities like running or HIIT workouts, where bounce control is everything. They’re often tight, padded, and not exactly what you want to be stuck in after eight hours on trail with a pack digging into your shoulders.
Hiking bras prioritize comfort over compression. They’re designed for long-term wear, not short bursts of intensity. That means softer materials, wider bands, and fewer features that rub or dig (like clasps, zippers, or thick seams). Many hiking bras skip the padding altogether to improve breathability and reduce bulk under layers. Padding can also hold sweat, moisture from humid air, and rain—which can make you feel even more uncomfortable while hiking.
Breathability and odor control also set hiking bras apart. A good hiking bra should wick sweat and dry quickly—but it should also resist odor over multiple days, especially on backpacking trips. That’s why you’ll see a lot more merino wool or lightweight mesh in hiking bras than in your average gym gear.
Dries quickly. Lightweight mesh dries quickly, which is a plus in when the sports bra you are wearing is the only one you have for the week-long backpacking trip. Plus, if you’re swimming in alpine lakes during your hikes, you’ll want something that will dry out quickly.
Use case matters, too. Sports bras are made for jumping, sprinting, and lifting. Hiking bras are made for everything in between: long days of steady movement, elevation changes, trail naps, creek dips, and sleeping in your bra because it’s just that comfy.
Care and maintenance tips
Hiking bras are some of the hardest-working pieces of clothing in your kit, so a little TLC can go a long way toward extending their life—especially if you're investing in higher-end merino or technical fabrics.
Hand wash when you can (or use a gentle cycle).
After a long trip, it’s tempting to toss your gear into a regular wash, but hiking bras—especially those made from merino wool—do best with a little gentler care. Use cold water, a mild detergent (wool-safe for merino), and avoid fabric softeners, which can break down performance fibers.
Air dry instead of machine drying.
High heat is tough on elastic and technical fabrics, which can cause your bra to lose its shape or wear out faster. Lay it flat or hang it up to dry in the shade. Most hiking bras are quick-drying anyway—no dryer needed.
Rotate on longer trips
If you're out for more than a few days and carrying more than one bra, swap them out each night to let one air out while you wear the other. Even just rinsing one in a creek or with a little water at camp can help cut down on odor and salt buildup.
Watch for snags and straps.
If we have one complaint about hiking sports bras, it is that many hiking bras use fine knits or mesh to boost breathability. We’ve found these can catch on Velcro or backpack buckles. Washing them in a mesh laundry bag and storing them separately from your pack’s rougher gear can help avoid accidental damage. Trust us — do not wash your expensive hiking sports bras with a pair of hiking gaiters that use Velcro straps. You will regret it!
Embrace the wear—but know when to retire.
Your favorite hiking bra might last for years, but once the elastic starts to stretch out, seams lose shape, or support dips noticeably, it’s time for a replacement. A well-loved bra that’s past its prime can lead to chafing or discomfort on trail.
How we tested and researched
Some of the sports bras we’ve tested over the years in the quest for the best hiking sports bras.
We’ve spent the past few years researching and testing hiking sports bras. Some of sports bras we tested were candidates for winners in our Best Sports Bras for AA-D cups guide and Best Sports Bras for D+ Cup guide. Other sports bras offer such low support, we didn’t review them for those guides but knew they needed to be mentioned here.
There are a lot of sports bras out there and fit often depends on your body, your needs, and your goals while hiking—not to mention where you are hiking or backpacking.
As a result, we decided the best way to get an idea of the best hiking sports bras was by asking Treeline Review writers of different body shapes and different hiking styles to test sports bras for hiking.
This included taking sports bras on everything from casual day hikes, overnight trips, week-long backpacking trips, mountaineering adventures, ski touring, snowshoe overnights, to multi-month thru-hikes.
Why you should trust us
To find the best sports bras for hiking, we asked Treeline Review writers of different body shapes and sizes what sports bras had worked for them on casual hikes, overnight backpacking trips, and thru-hikes. Our goal was to capture a diverse set of body types and ways of hiking and backpacking so that you, the reader, can find the best type of sports bras for you.
This is different than many of our other stories, but after asking our staff what we thought would be the most helpful way to find a hiking sports bra, we decided sharing our experiences as writers who have tested dozens of hiking sports bras was the best way to make this guide most accessible to different types of outdoors people with different body types.
