The Best Bras Our Own Teens and Tweens Tested at School, the Field, and Home

During the rollercoaster that is puberty, developing breasts can bring about a lot of mixed feelings for growing kids. “This developmental change is a positive, beautiful, and natural time for young individuals,” says Anne Murray-Chiriboga, M.D., of NEW Health in Boston. And along with that change comes the need to choose the best bra for your teen or tween, one that provides comfort, support, and modesty. To help narrow down the choices, we had our own tweens and teens test bras during their day-to-day activities and find the best options out there.

While proper fit is foremost, every kid’s needs will differ. For developing chests, a sports bra style or a bralette is a safe bet, according to bra expert Jené Luciani Sena. “Look for a high level of spandex because that means more stretch and support if she's already busty,” she explains. For someone not as developed and just looking for modesty, a bralette with foam inserts does the trick. 

Buying those first bras will require balancing your child’s wants and needs in terms of style, coverage, and comfort. You’ll also want something that fits their sense of style and level of activity, and also your budget, because typical bras can cost anywhere from $10 to $60. We carefully considered design, value, material, ease of cleaning, and sizing when testing to find the best bras for tweens and teens. For an even more thorough assessment of specific questions or concerns your child may have about their body and selecting a bra, Dr. Murray-Chiriboga encourages you to reach out to your child’s health care provider. This will help not only put concerns to rest but also build trust between your adolescent and her doctor.

Our Favorite Bras for Teens and Tweens

• Best Overall for Tweens: Cat & Jack Sports Bra
• Best Overall for Teens: Nike Swoosh Big Kids' Sports Bra
• Best First Bra: Bleuet Aster Tank Bra
• Best to Wear Without a Shirt: Offline by Aerie Real Me Low Key Longline Sports Bra
• Best Seamless: Bleuet Bleum Bamboo Bra
• Best Budget: Fruit of the Loom Cotton Built-up Stretch Sports Bra
• Best Tank: Athleta Girl Long Distance 2.0 Bra
• Best for Athletes: Girlfriend Collective Dylan Tank Bra
• Best Colors: Old Navy PowerSoft Longline Sports Bra for Girls
• Best Hybrid: Yellowberry Luna Bra

Best Bra for Tweens: Cat & Jack Sports Bra

Why We Like It

The racerback style of the Cat & Jack Sports Bra is great for young sporty kids, and the two-pack offers up both a printed and solid bra as a fun intro to the world of undergarment styling. The seams and underband offer a streamlined silhouette they can wear under any type of clothing. The bra runs true to size and washes extremely well.

Our 10-year-old tester was looking for support and coverage for playing lacrosse and rollerblading, and the Cat & Jack sports bra fit the bill (and her) for daily wear, and she even wore it comfortably overnight at least once. She felt secure and confident thanks to the thick yet super comfortable fabric, wide no-budge straps, and a comfy band.

But Take Note

Larger-chested tweens and teens should know that this bra doesn’t offer a lot of support. Also, the racerback style is not adjustable, which is unfortunate if you need a different fit in different areas of your chest, back, and shoulders.

The Details:

• Style: Racerback tank
• Sizes: S to XL
• Materials: 94% nylon, 6% spandex
• Adjustable straps: No

Best Bra for Teens: Nike Swoosh Big Kids' Sports Bra

Why We Like It

The classic one-piece design of this sports bra makes it a great option for teens. Made from soft sustainable material, the Nike Swoosh bra has two layers of soft, smooth fabric and flat seams for all-around comfort and coverage. The thick, soft, and stretchy straps earn points for not digging into shoulders.

The small details of this bra grabbed the attention of our active tester. “I like how the elastic has little vertical lines made of a softer thread, which creates a separation between my skin and the rubbery part, so it doesn't get stuck to my skin if I sweat,” she noted. She also appreciated that the band wasn't too tight, while the material and design were compressive enough to keep everything in place without being constricting. 

But Take Note

The racerback straps are fixed, making initial fit important. Our tester also noticed that it ran large, and the thickness of the fabric can cause the bra to be noticeable through some clothing.The bra doesn't have pads and isn’t reinforced in the front, so someone with bigger breasts might not have enough support.

The Details:

• Style: Tank
• Sizes: XS to XL
• Materials: 83% polyester (at least 75% recycled polyester fibers), 17% spandex
• Adjustable straps: No

Best First Bra: Bleuet Aster Tank Bra

Why We Like It

Mom-founded teen bra company Bleuet makes this Aster Tank bra from ultra-soft, stretchy, and breathable fabric with a wider band for extra support. Because it has minimal seams, is tag-free, and is super lightweight, it’s perfect for easing your child into wearing a bra. The dual layers offer extra coverage and support as their body grows and develops. Bonus: It’s also reversible.

Despite her dislike of wearing bras, our young tester found this one fit perfectly and the “fabric was the softest and most pleasant against my skin.” Because there aren’t elastic straps, it's gentle on sensitive skin, and the bra is very easy to put on and take off. After long-term wear, the bra did not pill or fade, so it will last until your kid outgrows it.  

But Take Note

While the wider under-bust elastic offers a lot of support, it isn’t a great choice for kids who can’t stand to feel anything on their body and dislike things that constrict. There also isn’t any padding, and the lack of adjustability means it doesn’t really grow with the kid.

The Details:

• Style: Tank
• Sizes: 7/8 to 22
• Materials: 66% Tencel lyocell, 28% organic cotton, 6% spandex
• Adjustable straps: No

Best to Wear Without a Shirt: Offline by Aerie Real Me Low Key Longline Sports Bra  

Why We Like It

Very comfortable and multifunctional, this bra is made for play thanks to a built-in shelf that gives support and a light lift. The removable pads make all the difference in terms of modesty when wearing it as a standalone top, and the variety of colors and patterns available move it from the boring bra category into its own fashionable style.

Our 12-year-old tester liked the thin padded cups because they gave her a little extra coverage without “being bulky or looking fake.” The bra fit comfortably around her rib cage, and she likened it to more of a fitted tank top than the traditional bras she was used to wearing. An added check in the comfort column is that there aren’t any seams, and the material is super soft. 

But Take Note

While she did love wearing it as a cropped top, the tester felt that adding just a little more length to the bra would make her feel more confident wearing it alone. Aerie categorizes this bra in its least supportive category, so it wouldn’t be great at holding things in during intense sports play or exercise. 

The Details:

• Style: Tank
• Sizes: XXS to XL
• Materials: 88% nylon, 12% elastane
• Adjustable straps: No 

Best Seamless: Bleuet Bleum Bamboo Bra

Why We Like It

For those who might have issues with seams and tags, the Bleum Bamboo Bra is a great addition to their undergarment drawer. The bra construction is very smooth, despite not having any padding. Adjustable straps allow for more control over the fit and feel. The bra is also reversible, so it’s a two-in-one for the win.

The bamboo fabric translates to super-soft wear, with a feel that our tester described as “silky.” She also noted that the seams weren’t noticeable, and there weren’t any tags on the bra that could become an irritant during wear.  

But Take Note

The fabric might be super soft, but it’s also on the thin side. Nipple coverage isn’t great in certain conditions, and the bra is more for everyday wear and not active athletic play. It’s also known to run on the larger side, so double check the brand’s size chart.

The Details:

• Style: Tank
• Sizes: 7/8 to 22
• Materials: 66% bamboo, 28% cotton, 6% spandex
• Adjustable straps: Yes 

Best Budget Fruit of the Loom Cotton Built-Up Stretch Sports Bra

Why We Like It

Since you can count on purchasing several bras to meet a preteen’s ever-changing development stages, this six-pack of bras brings a little relief to your budget. These are very basic and do the job for smaller chests. They have two cotton fabric layers for modesty and wide, no-slip straps—and the bras are also available in both standard and racerback style. 

At 11, our tester didn’t require a lot of support, but she loved this choice as a starter bra. Calling it more of a tank top than a true bra, her caregiver noted it as a great choice “for someone who just needs to cover her nipples and get very light support.” The wide elastic bottom band and wider straps wore flat underneath clothing. 

But Take Note

The fabric could be a potential deterrent, as the tester noted that the mostly cotton blend was not very soft. It also does not provide support, so those with larger chests should look elsewhere.  

The Details:

• Style: Tank
• Sizes: 28 to 40
• Materials: 95% cotton, 5% spandex
• Adjustable straps: No

Best Tank: Athleta Girl Long Distance 2.0 Bra

Why We Like It

The high neck and racerback of Athleta Girl’s Long Distance Bra gives off a great tank vibe along with adding to the level of coverage and comfort. If modesty is a concern, the bra has removable pads in sizes L to XXL, and a bra liner in sizes S to M. The fabric is really the star of the show, earning points for being moisture-wicking, quick-drying, and breathable. A UPF rating of 40+ helps kids’ skin stay safe in the blazing sun during outdoor sports.

The fabric really hit a high note with our tester, who said the bra is “so comfortable that I would even wear it as pajamas because it's so soft and nice.” She also noted that the bra was tight enough in the right places to support her through a schedule of several sports. Calling it more of a cropped top cami, she liked how the bra stayed in place and was the right length for wearing as a stand-alone piece with high-waisted leggings or jean shorts. (Note: We tested an earlier version of this bra, but most of its details remain the same.)

But Take Note

The double layered fabric and padding were very noticeable through shirts, especially white ones. Also girls with larger breasts might not find this supportive enough due to the lack of band or built-in shelf. It’s also not adjustable, so getting the right size is important.

The Details:

• Style: Tank
• Sizes: XS to XXL
• Materials: 75% nylon, 25% Lycra
• Adjustable straps: No 

Best for Athletes: Girlfriend Collective Dylan Tank Bra

Why We Like It

From a brand known for being extremely inclusive (it offers bras in XXS to 6XL), the Girlfriend Collective Dylan Tank Bra is great for athletes of all shapes and sizes. The four-way stretch, supportive racerback, and built-in support band are all well-suited for teens who have outgrown kids’ bra sizes. The double-lined fabric is supportive (bonus points for being made from recycled water bottles). It’s also UPF 50+, so it’s great for outdoor workouts. The high neck offers extra coverage and still looks great when layered under lower-cut pieces.

When you're an athlete, you’re always on the move. Thankfully, according to our tester, this bra helps her chest stay put thanks to the high neck, thick straps, and wide underband. The fit is comfortable, and the bra did not ride up at all, even when put to the challenge during games and practice. 

But Take Note

The high neck makes it hard to wear under clothes if you want it to be invisible, especially under school uniforms. Also the fabric could be a little more breathable and moisture-wicking. 

The Details:

• Style: Tank
• Sizes: XXS to 6XL
• Materials: 79% recycled plastic bottles (RPET), 21% spandex
• Adjustable straps: No

Best Colors: Old Navy PowerSoft Longline Sports Bra for Girls

Why We Like It

The appeal of the PowerSoft Longline Sports Bra lies not only in its stretchy and comfy fit, but also the extensive options of colors and patterns (there are 10 from which to choose as of this writing) available. Light compression fabric won’t hurt growing kids. Because it hits just below the rib cage, it can be worn as a cute top when paired with workout leggings or shorts.

While the bra doesn’t have padding, it does boast an inner lining for modest wear. Despite being super bold and bright, the color didn’t fade through the wash process (although the tester notes she didn’t put it into the drier, so that could have helped).

But Take Note

This bra was a little difficult to remove and this could be attributed to the longline design. Also if you want a bra that fades into the background, this is definitely not that. It’s not available in any neutral colors except for black.  

The Details:

• Style: Racerback tank
• Sizes: XS to XXL
• Materials: 23% spandex, 77% polyester
• Adjustable straps: No

Best Hybrid: Yellowberry Luna Bra

Why We Like It

Founded by a high school junior, Yellowberry is a go-to for bras that are comfortable for bodies that are developing. The Luna Bra is one of the brand’s original hybrid styles, which are great for all-day wear from classroom to practice (hello, antimicrobial and moisture-wicking fabric). The bra boasts smooth and thick coverage without any uncomfortable padding. 

Calling it “an instant favorite,” the tester loved the four straps in the back that “make it look stylish and not as heavy as a regular sports bra.” She also felt secure and supported when running and jumping, so much so that she forgot she had it on. Of note: Luna fits a little tight, so for a less snug fit, size up.

But Take Note

The crisscross of the stylish straps can make the bra hard to hide under clothing if desired.

The Details:

• Style: Spaghetti strap tank
• Sizes: XS to XXL
• Materials: Nylon/Spandex
• Adjustable straps: No

Best Strapless: Victoria’s Secret Sexy Illusions Uplift Strapless

Why We Like It

First of all, we know that the name of this bra isn’t exactly befitting of the younger set. But as a strapless and convertible bra, it’s great for teens who need something to wear with strapless dresses and tops. Their confidence stays up along with the bra (no more having to hoist it up in public). The non-slip cups and smoothing band offer added support while staying in place, and the convertible straps can be worn in five different ways: classic, halter, one strap, crossback, or strapless. 

Our tester loved that the Uplift Bra doesn’t show through tops, and the sticky interior keeps it in place better than other strapless bras she’s tried. She also appreciates that it comes in nine colors. 

But Take Note

The padding is very heavy and can’t be removed, adding to the wearer’s chest size which some may not like. The convertible straps can be challenging for new wearers. It also has an underwire.

The Details:

• Style: Strapless
• Sizes: 32A to 42 DD
• Materials: Polyamide, Elastane
• Adjustable straps: Yes

Softest: Athleta Girl Upbeat 2.0 Bra

Why We Like It

Available in four pastel colors, black, and white, Athleta Girl’s Upbeat Bra is just that—an upbeat addition to an undergarment drawer. While some bras are more of a chore to wear, the brand’s soft and buttery fabric blend makes putting this one on a pleasure. And the novelty back adds a literal fun twist. There also aren’t any harsh bands or elastics throughout the bra that could cause discomfort. 

The material is extremely soft and gentle on the skin, according to our tester, who noted, “I liked how soft the material felt on my skin and how I felt that it hugged my body instead of squeezing it.” The fabric felt extremely smooth, and the cups and padding held up better than a lot of her other bras after long-term wear and care. 

But Take Note

There aren’t any removable pads in sizes small and medium. The strap pattern on the back might be visible through some tops. It’s not adjustable, making it a little bit more restrictive in terms of finding the perfect fit. 

The Details:

• Style: Tank
• Sizes: XS to XXL
• Materials: Nylon-Lycra blend
• Adjustable straps: No

Other Notable Bras for Teens and Tweens

• Dick’s Sporting Goods Girls' Aspire Sports Bra: This cute bra was so comfortable, the tester forgot she had it on during her three-hour sporting event. The fabric was soft, breathable, and supportive. It can also double as a workout top thanks to a variety of colors and patterns. The drawbacks are that it’s unlined and not adjustable.
• Brabar Soft Everyday Bra: This soft bralette is designed to fit smaller bands and larger cup sizes, making it suited for younger kids who are also well-developed. It has double-layer wire-free cups, and removable foam pads ensure complete coverage. 
• Champion Girls Sports Bra: Basic doesn’t mean boring with this sports bra. Great for active girls, the mesh cutouts and super soft fabric provide great breathability and comfort. The bra doesn’t have a ton of stretch, so it can be tough to get off and on, and the fabric can be noticeable under some clothing.
• Bare Necessities Dream Bra: This “sleep” bra is a dream when it comes to comfort. Even the underband is soft and cushiony, so your child can wear the bra to sleep to help protect sensitive new breasts through the night. Although it’s a pullover, the bra has adjustable straps for a customized fit.
• Adidas Girls’ Power React Bra: Everything about this bra was well thought out—the moisture-wicking fabric, smooth and comfortable design, the little cut out in the back that adds to its breathability. This style has a tendency to go out of stock, however. 

Our Testing Process 

We spent months testing 21 bras for tweens and teens in the real world, having our own kids wear the products during daily routines as well as more targeted movement during sports and exercise, to find the best ones. We picked our top bras based on the following criteria:

• Fit: Keeping the cups, straps, band, and type of closure in mind, we assessed how well the bra fit and felt.
• Comfort: We judged how the bra felt during long-term wear in terms of cut, bands, straps, and fabric.  
• Support: We noted how the bra held breasts in place during activity ranging from daily routines to intense aerobic exercise and sports play.
• Fabric: We assessed whether the fabric was soft and breathable, and if the straps dug into the shoulders.
• Coverage: We noted the thickness of the fabric, whether there was padding, and if the piece was noticeable under clothes.
• Adjustability: We judged how customizable the bra was with adjustable straps and band.
• Wear: We held the bra up against multiple washings to see whether it kept its shape and feel.

Our Experts

Before and after testing the bras, we spoke to the following healthcare professionals and industry experts to find out what to look for when choosing a bra for your teen or tween:

• LaJean Lawson, PhD, sports bra researcher and movement expert 
• Jené Luciani Sena, bra expert and author of The Bra Book and GiGi Gets a Bra
• Anne Murray-Chiriboga, M.D., chief medical officer at NEW Health in Boston
• Vanessa Kroll Bennett, puberty educator and co-author of This Is So Awkward  

Factors to Consider When Buying a Bra for a Teen or Tween

• Style: There's a huge range of training bra styles, from frilly to athletic. For some new bra wearers, light padding may be appreciated, while others may find it premature or unnecessary. According to Sena, a sports bra style or a bralette is always a safe bet, although the latter might need to be more supportive if your child is very developed.
  
  
• Purpose: For some, training bras provide support and modesty for newly developing breasts, says Dr. Lawson. Others may want a bra to create a barrier between sensitive breast buds, nipples, and clothing. For later bloomers, a training bra might be something to wear because all of her friends are wearing them. Whether it’s for confidence or necessity, understanding why your child wants a bra can help you choose the right one.
• Sizing: An important part of your child's confidence in their training bra is making sure that it fits correctly. Unlike traditional bra sizing which is consistent through brands and utilizes chest size in inches and cup sizes in letters, training bras can vary in how they determine sizing. Typically they range in XS to XXL, so it’s important to check the size chart to ensure you are picking the right size.
  
• Colors and Features: While the main objective is comfort and whatever coverage your child needs in terms of modesty, the right bra can also be a great form of self-expression, according to Dr. Lawson. There are features that can customize the undergarment for a more comfortable fit and confidence-building look, such as adjustable straps, removable cups, padding, and fun patterns and colors.

Your Questions, Answered 

What is a training bra?

A training bra is a type of bra designed for kids who are just starting to develop breasts. Usually smaller and less structured than regular bras, they are often made of soft, stretchy material to be more comfortable. “They were designed to ‘ease’ a girl into bra wearing,” says Sena.

When should I buy my child a training bra?

The first sign of puberty for a majority of children assigned female at birth is breast development, typically starting anytime between 8 and 13 years old, according to Dr. Murray-Chiriboga. When teens and tweens are just starting to develop breast buds or feel some sensitivity in their nipples, a training bra is appropriate. Every kid develops differently, so the particular age at which they should start wearing one will vary.

Should I insist my child wear a bra?

“I advise parents to allow children to take the lead on communicating how they would like to ease into becoming a young woman,” says Dr. Murray-Chiriboga. Ask your child if they are interested in wearing a bra or a tank top as their body develops. “It is important to make this change a positive and comfortable experience for your child and emphasize that everyone grows in different ways.”

How should a training bra fit?

A first bra should fit like any other bra—not dig in anywhere or cause discomfort, says Sena. “You should be able to slide two fingers behind [the] band but no more, otherwise it's too big and will inevitably start riding up,” she explains. Training bras with bands should be snug enough to provide support but comfortable enough to wear all day. Breast tissue should be contained within the cups without any gaping. The bra should stay on the body without being too tight or constricting. Camisole types should fit like undershirts, so they are not baggy under clothing layers. Try a few different styles to see what suits them best.

What are the signs of a poorly fitting bra? 

Buying a poorly fitting bra can create so many problems, from chafing to lack of support. “If you have the opportunity to shop in person, try on a range of different sizes. Forget about the number on the label and just keep trying on different brands and different sizes until you find something that is comfortable for you,” says Dr. Lawson.

Are there any styles to avoid for a growing chest?

No. It's all about what's comfortable. Sena suggests checking in regularly with your child to keep the dialogue open. As their body continues to develop and breasts grow, replace bras as needed or every six months to a year, to ensure they doesn't outgrow them. 

What if my child doesn’t want to wear a bra?

If you find yourself battling your child to wear a bra, let this one go. Remember that bra-wearing is not a health necessity. While it might make certain activities more comfortable, there's nothing mandatory about wearing one. “It should be their choice to wear or not to wear,” says Bennett. This is exceptionally hard for some parents to reconcile as breast buds are so obvious. “Some kids are into bras even when they don’t need them, but other kids are decidedly not. Having open, non-judgmental conversations about all of this is the key to helping kids grow up with more body confidence.” 

Who We Are

Cheryl Fenton is a Boston-based freelance lifestyle writer who has enjoyed a 30-year career of bylining in both national magazines and popular websites, as well as authoring a book or two. As the mom of the teenage daughter, she is in the midst of weathering the storms of adolescence in terms of body development, ever-changing moods, and hormones.