10 Best Canon Lenses For Sports 2025 in the United States

The Canon RF70-200mm F2.8 L IS USM lens is a strong contender for sports photography, given its versatile focal length range of 70-200mm. This range ensures you can capture both close-ups and distant shots with ease. The bright f/2.8 aperture is excellent for low-light conditions and achieving a shallow depth of field, crucial for isolating subjects in action shots. Its autofocus system is high-speed, smooth, and quiet, thanks to the dual Nano USM, making it great for capturing fast-moving subjects without missing critical moments.

Additionally, the optical image stabilization with up to 5 stops of shake correction is a significant advantage for shooting handheld, reducing the likelihood of blurry images. The minimum focusing distance of 2.3 feet adds to its versatility, allowing close-up shots when needed. The lens is built to withstand challenging conditions with its robust build quality and weather sealing, making it reliable for outdoor sports events.

However, while the lens is described as compact and lightweight, it still weighs 2.64 pounds, which might be a bit heavy for prolonged handheld use. Portability is enhanced by its relatively compact dimensions, but users should consider if the weight might be an issue during extended shoots. Moreover, being compatible only with Canon's RF mount limits its use to Canon's mirrorless camera series, which might be a drawback for those with other camera systems. Despite these minor cons, the Canon RF70-200mm F2.8 L IS USM lens is an outstanding choice for sports photographers looking for a high-performing telephoto zoom lens with excellent image quality and reliable performance.

The Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM Lens is a standout choice for sports photography, thanks to its versatile 70-200mm focal length and constant f/2.8 maximum aperture, which ensures excellent performance in various lighting conditions. The lens features Canon’s Air Sphere Coating to reduce ghosting and flare, enhancing image clarity. Additionally, the Optical Image Stabilization provides up to 3.5 stops of shake correction, which is particularly beneficial for capturing fast-moving sports action with precision.

The autofocus system, driven by a Ring Ultrasonic Motor, is both fast and accurate, essential for tracking moving subjects in sports events. Furthermore, the lens allows for full-time manual focus, providing photographers with more control over their shots. The build quality is robust, with a design that is highly resistant to dust and water, making it durable for use in harsh environments. Fluorine coatings on the front and rear elements help reduce smears and fingerprints, maintaining image quality.

At 3.18 pounds, the lens is relatively heavy, which may affect portability and ease of use during extended shooting sessions. Despite this, its comprehensive feature set and high image quality make it an excellent lens for sports photographers who need reliability and performance in demanding conditions.