18 Best Running Belts & Runners Waist Packs for Keys, Phone & Small Items 2024
Are you tired of holding your phone while you run?
Are you afraid your keys might bounce right out of your pocket mid-race?
Need a place to store your cash, ID, and Chapstick?
Then it sounds like a running belt is just what you need!
But what are the best running belts?
There are a lot out there, but choose wisely or else you might end up with a belt that bounces or flops around, won’t fit your smartphone, or worse, allows your keys to slide out, never to be seen again.
Check out this list of the top 18 running belts for small items and see what the best running belts are – and what you should avoid, so you can run confidently.
Contents
- TOP 18 Best Running Belts Reviewed 2024
- SPIbelt Adult Large Pocket Running Belt
- FlipBelt Running Belt
- Fitletic Running Belt - Ultimate II Race Belt
- Orion Running Belt
- Amphipod AirFlow Microstretch Belt
- SPIbelt The Original Running Belt
- Nathan The Hipster Running Belt
- The Tube Wearable Waistband for Running
- SPIbelt Endurance Race Belt
- Fitletic Race Belt - Neo
- RooSportPlus Magnetic Pouch
- Apparatuz Running Belt
- PakRat Running Belt Waist Pack
- Bandi Large Pocket Belt
- Avanto Slim Fit Running Belt
- SPIbelt Waterproof LokSak Liner Running Belt
- Soren Running Belt
- Nathan Peak Hydration Waist Pack
- A Quick Guide to Running Belts
- Running Belt FAQs
- The Finish Line…
TOP 18 Best Running Belts Reviewed 2024
SPIbelt Adult Large Pocket Running Belt
- SPIbelt Large Pocket Running Belt for Women Men. Keep your phone, keys and small personal items safe and secure while running, walking, hiking or traveling. The perfect phone holder for running. Adjustable waist. Bounce-free!
- EXPANDABLE, NO-BOUNCE POCKET: The pocket lies completely flat and expands to 9" x 4" x 2" inches to accommodate essential supplies such as larger phones, passport, exercise accessories, headphones, keys, ID, credit cards and more
- PHONE COMPATIBILITY: The Large Pocket Belt is compatible with many popular phone models including iPhone (11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max, 12, 12 mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max, 13, 13 mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max); Samsung Galaxy (A10e, A20, A50, Fold, S10, S10 5G, S10+, S10e, S20, S20 Ultra, S20+); Google Pixel (3a, 3a XL, 4, 4XL, 4a, 4a 5G, 5), Samsung Z Flip
- COMFORTABLE AND SECURE: The 1" wide soft elastic belt prevents chafing. The belt fits waist sizes of 25" through 47" comfortably. Sturdy buckle and construction for even the most active user. Expandable, secure and low-profile pocket
- EMPOWERING ACTIVE LIFESTYLES: Perfectly designed running waist pack for securely carrying phone, keys during runs, rides or walks, ensuring that your essentials are always within reach. Woman-owned business in Austin, TX.
Review: This SPIbelt large pocket running belt’s best feature is it does not bounce. If you need to keep larger items handy as you run, this is a great choice.
It can hold large smartphones like the ginormous iPhone 8. This belt is stretchy and does not ride up as you run.
If you want to, you can even conceal the belt under your shirt and you may even forget you are wearing it.
Pros
- Pocket large enough for oversized smartphones.
- Fits waist size 25″ through 47″.
- Soft, comfortable, will not ride up.
- No bounce!
Cons
- Not waterproof or resistant.
Takeaway
Best running belt for phones, especially large phones.
FlipBelt Running Belt
- COMFY RUNNING WAIST BELT: Made to keep you in motion, the FlipBelt is an exercise-belt phone holder and carrier pouch for small vital essentials. Designed to pull on and lay flat on your hips without slipping, it is a light alternative to bulky running bags and armbands.
- MONEY & PHONE POUCH: The FlipBelt features 4 pocket openings to slip in all your must-have items, like cards, cash, and earphones, and it even has an internal key hook for added security. It’s bounce-free storage for your phone during your workout and is compatible with screens 5"–6" and larger.
- FASHION & FUNCTION: Made of moisture-wicking material that is quick drying and soft even while working up a sweat, this belt design is sleek with no buckles and no chafing, and it has a reflective logo for visibility while jogging, walking, or hiking. Sport it at the gym or during casual travel.
- HOW TO WEAR & CARE: This fitness belt should have a snug fit every time. Depending on where you wear it, the size will vary. To wear it low on your hips, go up a size. For on or above your hips, go true to size. To wear it on your natural waist, go down a size. Machine wash and dry or hang dry.
- TAKE FLIPBELT ANYWHERE: We made FlipBelt to provide easy storage to people on the go, no matter where their day takes them. We offer different apparel to suit your style and even FlipBelt-exclusive accessories that are sized just for our pockets so you can have everything you need at hand.
Review: The FlipBelt is comfortable and practical and great for going on a run. You can fit a Chapstick, your keys, a phone and a few bills into the pocket and be on your way.
The pockets have no zipper, they hold things in by compressing them. There are several little pocket openings along the length of the belt.
The Spandex-Lycra blend material keeps everything in pace and prevents the belt from edging up or bouncing. It’s a genius design.
Pros
- No bounce.
- No chafing – fits comfortable, you won’t feel it on.
- Multiple openings to access small pockets at different points along the belt.
- Has a hook to clip your keys to.
Cons
- Not for oversized cell phones – smaller phones do fit.
Takeaway
No fumbling with zippers while you run, the FlipBelt holds your things snug and secure as you run.
Fitletic Running Belt - Ultimate II Race Belt
- All-in-one Running Pouch - Designed for runners by runners in the USA, Fitletic has created the Ultimate belt for a comfortable & enjoyable run . Quick, easy access to your phone & essentials!
- Patented No-Bounce - No more bouncing or chafing with our ultra-comfy runners belt. Designed with an adjustable band which fits snuggly against the body & stays put- move around comfortably.
- The Ultimate II has an inner pocket for ID's, credit cards & keys . Plus -4 gel loops, bib toggles, & room for your essentials. Pouch: 8" x 4" x 0.5" Fits iPhone 15 Pro Max & other Similar Phones
- Suitable for Endurance Sports - Perfect for marathons, triathlons, 5K, 10K, hiking and any other adventures that lye ahead. Unisex for both Men & Women- Adjustable Band (24"– 42" waist)
- Florida based Fitletic Started in 2008 and has been a leader in the running community ever since- With Multiple Patents & our work with companies like runDisney, we know you will feel the difference
Review: The Fitletic running belt has lots of useful extras other belts don’t have such as number or bib toggles to hold your race bib, loops to hold energy gel packs, an insulated zipper compartment, sewn in reflective loops and a small key holder.
This belt stays in place and won’t move around.
Pros
- Water resistant (not waterproof).
- Stays secure, won’t bounce or move.
- Lots of places to hold your essential items.
Cons
- Not small enough for really petite frames.
- The key compartment is small.
Takeaway
Best running waist pack for half marathons and short races.
Orion Running Belt
- FEELS LIKE A PART OF YOU: Unisex, lightweight, comfortable fanny packs for women fashionable and fanny pack for men. Stays in place -no bouncing. Water-resistant fabric protects items from hot/cold weather or intense workouts
- SUBTLE AND DISCREET SMALL FANNY PACK: Wear over or under clothes. Elastic straps are adjustable for the perfect fit. Great running pack, hiking fanny pack, running belt for phone, walking, outdoor activities or workouts
- NEVER LOSE YOUR GEAR AGAIN: Running fanny pack keeps everything accessible and your hands free. 3 pockets for your phone 8 plus, 10, 11, xr, keys, money, earbuds, airpods, and snacks
- A PLACE FOR EVERYTHING: 9” x 4” main pouch holds all phone sizes, iphone or Android. Fits waist sizes 28” to 45” and separately purchased belt extender fits up to 60”. Running belt for women and running belt for men has a locking zipper for security
- LOOK GOOD WHILE YOU TRAVEL: Simple design is sleek and stylish but functional. A clever opening for headphones or earbuds cords keeps them close to your body and out of your way
Review: The Belt of Orion running belt is as beautiful as it is handy. It has three pockets, the main pocket is zippered and separated to help you stay organized and secure on the run.
The Orion belts are slim enough to discreetly conceal under sportswear and so comfortable, you forget you are wearing it.
Pros
- Made from comfortable, thin wetsuit style material.
- Fits credit card/ID, keys, phone, and a lot more.
- Separate internal credit card pocket.
- Key clip prevents keys from falling out.
Cons
- Won’t fit some oversized smartphones, especially those with an Otterbox Defender case.
Takeaway
Easily one of the best running belts for 2024 for sports, running and travel.
Amphipod AirFlow Microstretch Belt
- MINAMALIST DESIGN: Designed and engineered for runners by runners – the ultra-light (1.6 oz.) weight AirFlow MicroStretch Belt is breathable, minimalist and offers the right amount of storage that is non-chaffing and bounce free. Ideal for running, ultra-running, hiking, endurance training, trekking, and walking. Specs: 10 x 2 x 0.5
- EXPANDABLE STORAGE: Easy access storage for nutrition, gel packs, ID, cash, credit cards, and keys on-the-go. Internal divider converts zippered pouch into four times expandable storage capacity to easily accommodate larger phones.
- BREATHABLE: AirFlow mesh technology wicks moisture away from the body and circulates air between the body and pack for a cool, and comfortable waist carry.
- COMFORT FIT: Breathable, non-confining, super-slender and fully adjustable band that secures fanny pack comfortably around waist offering distraction-free essential storage for jogging, gym workouts or any run.
- QUICK RELEASE: Easy on/off with low-profile, quick-release buckle.
Review: The best thing about the amphipod is that it is very breathable and one of the lightest running belts out there.
The pocket is made from an ultralight mesh material that is semi see-thru. It is a zipper pouch, so your items stay secure.
This zippered pouch expands to hold a phone and other necessary items while you are running. The microstretch material, stretches, as the name implies, so your stuff is not jiggling around as you run.
Pros
- Extremely lightweight stretchy material.
- Expandable main pouch.
- Pouch is zippered so items stay secure.
Cons
- Really breathable, but not water or sweat proof. Slightly see thru.
Takeaway
A very light running belt with a decent capacity, best running waist belt for a minimalist runner.
SPIbelt The Original Running Belt
- SPIbelt Original Pocket Running Belt: Keep your phone, keys and small personal items safe and secure while running, walking, hiking or traveling. The perfect phone holder for running. Adjustable waist. Bounce-free!
- Phone Holder: Compatible with most all phone models including iPhone (11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max, 12, 12 mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max, 13, 13 mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max); Samsung Galaxy (A10e, A20, A50, Fold, S10, S10 5G, S10+, S10e, S20, S20 Ultra, S20+); Google Pixel (3a, 3a XL, 4, 4XL, 4a, 4a 5G, 5), Samsung Z Flip.
- Expandable, No-Bounce Pocket: The pocket lies completely flat and expands to 9" x 4" x 2" inches to accommodate essential supplies such as larger phones, passport, exercise accessories, keys, ID, credit cards and more.
- Adjustable Waist Size: The 1" wide soft elastic belt prevents chafing and does not bounce. Fits waist sizes 24" through 47". Sturdy buckle and construction for even the most active user.
- Empowering Active Lifestyles: Designed for runners that need a slim phone holder that won't bounce but large enough to carry most phones. Works great as a travel belt or money belt. SPIbelt is a woman owned company in Austin, TX.
Review: This slim profile minimalist running belt is the original SPIbelt and holds a little less than the SPIbelt Large Pocket running belt but if you only like to carry a few small items, you might prefer this belt.
The zippered pocket is stretchy and expands to hold a phone, keys and other small items. The width of the belt is just one inch, and it is a stretchy elastic so it is comfortable, yet snug and will not bounce as you run.
Pros
- No bounce.
- Pocket stretches to expand and fit a phone.
- Band is elastic and is body-hugging.
Cons
- The belt will not fit waists over 47 inches, and is tight at that measurement.
Takeaway
Most comfortable running belt with a minimalist feel.
Nathan The Hipster Running Belt
- Super-soft stretch belt fits comfortable around your waist
- Includes our pockets to fit all of your small essentials
- New low-profile Hipster belt features multiple pockets and keeps essential items snug and secure around your waist
- Stretches to your individual contours
Review: The Hipster running belt is designed to be worn at the hips, is soft and wide and very comfortable to wear.
The width of the belt helps keep it in place, while the lack of hardware like zippers and toggles make it comfortable.
Pros
- Body hugging, can be concealed under clothes.
- Pockets have no zippers so they are easy to access without fumbling around while running.
- Soft comfortable fabric, no hard buckles or zippers.
- Machine washable.
Cons
- A few people mention their phone falls out since there is no zipper.
Takeaway
Soft and body hugging running belt that is comfortable to run in.
The Tube Wearable Waistband for Running
- WEARABLE | Waistband has 3 specially-designed pockets to keep essentials close & concealed
- PATENTED | Zippered & side-load pockets hold all smartphones, money, IDs, keys, lip balm, snacks & much more
- ON THE GO | Ideal accessory for athletes, busy parents, travelers, sports fans, dog walkers, club goers who desire to be hands-free & worry-free
- UNISEX | Simple and sleek style looks great on men, women, and youth of all body types
- LYCRA | Machine washable, stretchy fabric is available in an array of sizes & colors to coordinate with any attire
Review: The Tube is a wide fabric waistband with three pockets to store and conceal your belongings as you run, jog, walk, or go about your day. The wide width means this running belt holds large or oversized smartphones-no problem.
It can be worn under a shirt and you won’t feel it on. One pocket has no zipper, just small openings so you can get your phone or other small items out quickly with one hand.
The other two pockets do have zippers to keep important items like money, ID, keys and credit cards secure.
Pros
- Holds large and oversized smartphones.
- Extra wide belt is comfortable and form fitting.
- Will not bounce
- 3 pockets, two with zippers, one without.
Cons
- Things may slide out of the pocket because it has no zipper.
Takeaway
Really versatile, really comfortable, tons of room, yet body hugging running belt.
SPIbelt Endurance Race Belt
- Bounce free with sturdy glides and buckle for even the most active users
- Pockets expands to 6" x 3" x 2"
- Fits waist size 29" through 50"
- Not waterproof but can be exposed to moisture
Review: The SPIbelt endurance running belt is different from the SPI large pocket and original belt.
The Endurance Race belt is water resistant, holds three energy gels in outer loops, the pocket is a bit bigger than the original SPIbelt, the elastic waistband is wider at 1.5 inches, and this model has race toggles and can hold your race bib.
Pros
- Large zippered front pocket.
- Room on the outside for 3 energy gel packs.
- 5-inch wide elastic waistband – wider than the SPIbelt original.
- Holds your race bib.
Cons
- Pocket does not have as much stretch as other models.
Takeaway
One of the best running belts for marathons and longer races, more space than a minimalist style running belt.
Fitletic Race Belt - Neo
- NO BOUNCE: Fitletic running belts have exclusive patented technology which ensures no bouncing, chafing, or riding up when running or working out.
- PHONE HOLDER: Measuring 7.75 in x 3.75 in, the FItletic Neo racing belt can hold large or small phones. Phone's case shouldn't exceed 6.5in x 3.3in for better fit. Fits iPhone 13 Pro Max, Samsung S22+
- COMFORTABLE: Ergonomic design contours to body. Ultra-soft dual-adjust waist belt. Every feature of this sports fanny pack is designed for best comfort and convenience.
- VERSATILE: Suitable as a race belt, marathon belt, trail running belt, ironman belt, or triathlon belt; plus of course it can also be used for training or jogging.
- WATER RESISTANT: Neoprene pouch keeps phone and other valuables dry.
Review: The Neo Fitletic Race belt is slightly lighter and less bulky than the Fitletic Ultimate II race belt, but is has many of the same great features with a slightly smaller profile.
It has race bib toggles, a water-resistant zippered, neoprene pocket that fits large cell phones, reflective tabs, an adjustable elastic belt, and an interior credit card pocket to keep your money separate and easy to get to.
Pros
- The stretchy adjustable waistband will not bounce.
- Internal pocket for organization of credit card, ID and cash.
- Water and light rain resistant (not waterproof).
Cons
- No headphone port.
Takeaway
Very comfortable running belt to wear on race day.
RooSportPlus Magnetic Pouch
- MAGNETIC CONVENIENCE: The RooSport's Magnetic Pocket (6" x 4") accommodates large phones, wallets, earphones, emergency medications, credit cards, and keys. Keeps your essentials safe during hikes and runs with its reliable magnetic closure.
- TRAIL-READY DESIGN: Ideal for both hikers and runners, this pouch features sweatproof, water-resistant, waist magnets, and a robust zipper, keeping your valuables dry and secure during intense workouts or outdoor adventures.
- COMFORTABLE WEAR: The RooSport's running waist bag, equipped with strong magnets, provides ultimate comfort and secure storage without bulk. Seamlessly integrate it into your hiking and workout routine for easy access to essentials - the perfect companion for your active lifestyle.
- VERSATILE AND STYLISH: Embrace the freedom of going beltless with this sleek pouch, perfect for trails, beaches, and amusement parks. Choose from various sizes and colors to complement your style and activities.
- CRAFTED FOR EXCELLENCE: Designed in Salt Lake City, Utah by a stay-at-home mom, The RooSport's magnetic pouch reflects top-notch quality, offering RFID protection and exceptional durability for worry-free hikes and runs.
Review: The Roo Sport Plus pocket is a little different than a belt but serves the same purpose.
Instead of securing it around your waist like a belt, you clip it to your waistband with one side inside your shorts and the pocket side on the outside.
It is held in place by powerful magnets, essentially becoming a part of your shorts or pants. The pocket is large enough to hold your phone, passport, and keys.
Pros
- No belt – fits all sizes – completely attached to your pants or shorts.
- Uses powerful magnets to hold it in place.
- Will not ride up because it is attached to your waistband.
Cons
- Cannot load the pocket too heavy – just the bare essentials.
Takeaway
Compact running pocket that eliminates the need to strap on a belt, a good alternative to a running belt.
Apparatuz Running Belt
Review: The Apparatuz running belt is one of my favorite running belts due to its simplicity and minimalist design. It is a fabric waistband that you can adjust to fit using Velcro.
The pockets have no zippers, yet still hold your items secure, it can hold larger phones like the iPhone 8, and it is easy to listen to music using earbuds since the open pockets allow a cable to port out easily.
Pros
- Wide comfortable Velcro adjustment band.
- Comfortable fabric tube waistband style running belt.
- Can hold larger items like passport and large phone.
Cons
- Can slide or shift.
- No back pocket, only two front pockets.
Takeaway
Comfortable running belt that holds larger items and can be concealed under your shirt.
PakRat Running Belt Waist Pack
- OUR EASY TO USE, FOLD OVER DESIGN SECURELY HOLDS phone, money, keys and other essentials for a hands-free jog or workout. NO NEED to flip or zip! Simply place your belongings in the belt, fold down the top, and go! Made in USA
- 3 ROOMY POCKETS for all your exercise, travel, or daily use essentials. Jogging belt has 1 large front pocket; 2 separate pockets in back; and hidden key clip. Premium fabric means there is NO bounce, NO riding up, NO loosening over time
- DESIGNED TO FIT ALL SMARTPHONES. Exercise belt fits most cell phones including iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR, iPhone X, iPhone 8 and 8 Plus; a universal cell phone holder for all large phone cases
- HIGH-PERFORMANCE MOISTURE WICKING FABRIC dries quickly and is odor resistant. 92% Polyester, 8% Spandex. Never worry again about zippers breaking or losing your credit card with PakRat's Patent Pending design
- VERY VERSATILE our customers have found SO many different uses for the PakRat. From an insulin pump holder for diabetes, to running errands, international travel safety, marathon, amusement parks and walking on the beach to name a few!
Review: This fabric band tube style running pack allows you to load up your belongings into the three pockets, then fold the band over to secure everything.
The band uses no zippers or adjustment hardware so it is comfortable and will not ride up or shift while you walk or run.
It can hold larger phones and has a key clip to secure your keys so you have peace of mind.
Pros
- Made in the USA.
- Load and lock in items, all using the fabric zipper free material and pockets.
- One large front pocket, two back pockets, and a key clip.
Cons
- Not easy to access items once they are packed in.
Takeaway
Secure, comfortable tube style running pack that will not drop your belongings.
Bandi Large Pocket Belt
- ADJUSTABLE FIT: The BANDI Pocketed Belt is designed to fit comfortably around your high hip with a sleek and secure buckle and adjustable sizing. It effortlessly accommodates waist sizes ranging from 28 to 42 inches (XS-XL). To ensure a perfect fit, measure with your jeans or leggings on, as you would most likely wear them. IF YOU PREFER A SLIGHTLY LARGER SIZE, CHECK OUT OUR BANDI PLUS SIZE VERSION, WHICH INCLUDES A DETACHABLE EXTENDER THAT FITS UP TO 54 INCHES.
- SECURE and CONVENIENT STORAGE : Our belt features two pockets that provide both safety and security. The main pocket is divided, measuring 7.5 x 3.5 inches, and is perfect for carrying your phone, cash, ID, passport, or even a small medical device. The smaller 4-inch side pocket is perfect for your keys or other small items.
- UNMATCHED COMFORT: Crafted from soft spandex fabric, our belt conforms to your body for a no-bounce fit, ensuring it stays in place during your most intense workouts. It's so comfortable that you'll forget you're even wearing it, allowing you to focus solely on your exercise or travel adventures.
- ULTIMATE MEDICAL DEVICE CONVENIENCE: The belt provides a secure and discreet solution for insulin pumps, EpiPens, inhalers, and other emergency medical supplies. With BANDI, you can have peace of mind knowing your essentials are always within reach. Enjoy quick, easy access to your items with the Zipper-Free BANDI Pocketed Belt.
- PERFECT FOR TRAVEL: Whether you're embarking on a business trip or a vacation, our belt is your ideal travel companion. Its sleek design allows it to lie flat against your body, enabling you to wear it discreetly under your clothing. Safely store your important documents, cash, and other essentials, ensuring they're always close at hand. Proudly Designed and Manufactured by a women-owned small business in the USA!
Review: The highlight of the Bandi belt are the fun colors and patterns available and the super soft spandex material that will not chafe your skin.
The main pocket has a fold over fabric flap to keep items secure and a separate inner divided pocket to hide a credit card, ID or hotel key.
The waistband is adjustable, and the pack fits larger phones.
Pros
- Lots of colors and fun patterns to choose from.
- Super soft spandex material.
- Adjustable belt with buckle.
- Separate inner pocket for credit cards.
Cons
- Some users mention the belt riding and bouncing because the material is so soft.
Takeaway
The best running waist pack for running errands & activities where you need your hands free.
Avanto Slim Fit Running Belt
Review: The Avanto is a useful and affordable tube style running waistband. The front pocket has two openings, one that loads from the top and one that loads from the side.
The Avanto fits close to your body so it does not bounce or shift much. This belt has a slim fit and you can conceal it under a shirt if you use it for travel, plus the front pocket is big enough to hold a passport.
Pros
- Upright passport-sized pocket and side lying slide in the front pocket for your phone.
- 3 pockets in total.
- Does not bounce – slim wide, body-hugging fit.
Cons
- Challenging to access your stuff while running.
Takeaway
Keep your belongings safe and your hands free with this comfortable running belt.
SPIbelt Waterproof LokSak Liner Running Belt
- Use the SPIbelt with Waterproof Accessory to keep your important belongings dry and clean in all sorts of wet and dirty environments. The Waterproof LokSak, a sturdy plastic inner-liner, protects your belongings from the elements.
- Expandable (6.5? x 3? x 2?), secure, low-profile pocket to hold phone, keys, cash, credit cards and even a passport! Includes a waterproof accessory: Medium LOKSAK bag (4.5? x 7?)
- LOKSAK is certified waterproof to 200 feet/60 meters, 100% water/air tight, and is recyclable and reusable. Make and receive phone calls while phone is protected in a LOKSAK, touchscreen devices work while in a LOKSAK
- Comfortable no-bounce sports pouch. Soft elastic prevents chaffing. Sturdy buckle and construction for even the most active user.
- Made in the USA and fits waist size 24? through 47?
Review: Finally, a waterproof running belt! This SPIbelt includes a large Loksak that can fit an oversized phone and passport.
This Loksak fits inside the belts large, expandable front pocket to keep your things safe as you run, hike, paddleboard and more.
Pros
- Waterproof inner Loksak pouch included.
- Large expandable front pocket.
- Wide adjustable elastic waistband.
Cons
- Waterproof inner pouch only, not the entire belt is waterproof.
Takeaway
Best WATERPROOF running belt!
Soren Running Belt
- STAYS IN PLACE: Whatever is best for you to focus on while running, it‘s surely not a loose running belt that distracts your flow every other mile. Our adjustable waist strap (from 26"-48") fits securely around your waist eliminating any bouncing or riding up
- COMFORTABLE FIT: Convert your running belt into a hydration belt with just one zip. Extendable side pouches fit our SOREN WATER BOTTLE perfectly! Redeem 30% off our SOREN WATER BOTTLES when you buy a belt (just click "add both to cart" in the promotion section below!) Lightweight and comfy to wear for both men and women
- PLENTY OF ROOM: Large center pocket 7.5" X 4" comfortably fits keys, earbuds, or safely stores your phone/smartphone of any size. Water and sweat-resistant fabric with reinforced stitching
- FUNCTIONAL DETAIL: Designed by an ultra-marathon runner with unique features like loops to tuck in excess waist strap, reflective trim for low-light, areas to attach LED lights and much more
- FREE BUFF: What's a buff!? It is your new magical bandana that all athletes love! Use it as a headband, wrist band, ear band, or tube top
Review: The Soren running pack is designed by an ultra-marathon runner so it is made with your needs in mind.
It converts to a hydration belt by unzipping and expanding the water bottle pocket. It has a zippered front pocket that you can open from either side, a key clip, two side pockets, reflective trim and bungee that loosens of tightens to secure a water bottle.
Pros
- Converts to a hydration pack.
- Zippered front pocket opens from both sides.
- Fits large phones.
- Bungee cinch cord holds water bottle securely in place.
Cons
- Looks a little fanny-pack like, but more hip.
Takeaway
Smart design! No bounce, large phone holding, water bottle securing running belt.
Nathan Peak Hydration Waist Pack
- SIMPLE HYDRATION: Our angled insulation bottle holder allows easy one handed access whether on the tread, track, or trail. Easy to store and easy to release from belt – stays in place throughout run to ensure no bouncing!
- MINIMAL DESIGN, MAXIMUM FUNCTION: Extended side panels hug the body comfortably for a perfect fit. Bottle and storage areas are securely fastened to ensure your essentials are protected
- STYLE AND SAFETY: Reflective detail and trim helps you be seen in dim light, without sacrificing a sleek aesthetically pleasing design
- CAPACITY: 18 oz/535 ml Speed Draw Flask with push/pull Race Cap, Expandable zippered stretch pocket keeps essentials protected
- INSPIRED BY THE JOURNEY: Nathan's collection of running essentials delivers on what matters most through intuitive design, comfort, quality, and smart storage, to help runners enhance and improve their performance, mile after mile and year after year
Review: The Nathan Peak hydration running hydration pack is a minimalist style running pack. It has a small zippered pocket that is capable of holding your smartphone, and a water bottle pouch and flask for hydration.
This belt also sports an attached bungee loop that can hold a layer if you need to remove a layer during your run.
Pros
- Zippered pocket holds your phone.
- 18 oz Speed Draw Flask included.
- Bungee cord holds the water bottle securely in place.
Cons
- Not for large or oversized phones.
Takeaway
Best running belt with a water bottle.
A Quick Guide to Running Belts
What Factors to Keep in Mind Before Buying the Best Running Waist Pack?
Function First!
What do you want your waist pack to carry? If you are like the average runner, you want it to hold your phone, keys and maybe some cash or an ID.
It’s easy!
Find a pack that holds your items securely.
The best running packs use zippers so you don’t drop your phone into the porta potty at a race event, a key clip so your keys don’t slip out leaving you stranded, and holds some cash so you can buy some merch or a snack pre or post race.
Material Matters
Make sure the material the belt is made from is both comfortable, yet tight enough that your belt will not bounce.
A bouncy belt is an annoying distraction during a race and totally interrupts your flow.
Not cool!
Pay Attention to Details
Not all race belts are created equal. The best race belts have key clips to secure your keys, reflective tabs to make you more visible as you run, loops to hold your race bib, zippers to hold your stuff secure, internal organization pockets so you can find your stuff easily, and holes or ports that allow you to attach earbuds to your phone so you can listen to your music as you run.
How to Choose the Best Running Belt? What to AVOID!
Here is what you should avoid when choosing the best race belt:
- Avoid a belt that slides, rides or shifts around. The belt should lay flat and not bounce or move as you run.
- Avoid a belt that will not fit your phone. Find a belt that is known to hold your specific phone, especially if you have a plus size phone or use a large case like the otterbox case.
- Avoid belts with pockets that are hard to get to. The last thing you want to do during a race is stop – that kinda defeats the purpose of being in a race. If you have to stop to get your stuff out-look for a new running belt.
- Avoid the inclination to carry too much stuff. Seriously consider if you really need everything you plan to carry. The more stuff your stuff into your running belt, the more likely it is to shift and bounce, and more stuff makes it hard to find things fast.
What are Running Belts For?
Simple running belts are designed to hold just your essentials as you race.
That means your phone, keys, cash, and ID. In some cases, they hold your race bib too.
Hydration belts are different from running belts.
Hydration belts are designed for holding water or other hydration beverages as you run. If you are looking for a hydration belt, we have some reviews here.
Running Belt FAQs
Are Running Belts Comfortable?
Some are, some aren’t.
The best running belts should be worn, but not felt. They should not bounce or slide. My personal favorite is the Fitletic Ultimate II because it is comfortable and holds everything I need as I run.
The SPIbelt original is another runner’s favorite and the first choice of many.
How to Keep Your Running Belt From Riding Up – How to Use or Wear a Running Belt?
The best way is to but a brand that is known for not riding up. Some other tips to prevent the belt from riding up:
- Wear the belt around your waist instead of at the hips (best tip for ladies).
- Use a smaller than normal size or cinch the belt really tight.
- Wear it backward, with the main pocket over your rear. It works!
- Carry less stuff in it.
- Don’t wear it over slippery material (cotton shirts are less slippery).
The Finish Line…
These reviews of the 18 best running belts are focused on small running belts to hold your number, keys, phone, and other small items.
If you are looking for reviews of hydration packs and running belts that hold water bottles for flasks, be sure to sign up for the newsletter to be notified. The hydration pack reviews are coming up next!
Love running gear?
We do too!
Check out our top picks for running shoes and running watches here.