Best Belts for Running

While running, carrying your phone, cash, and other objects in your hands or pockets can be annoying and dangerous. Armbands with storage are practical but frequently restrictive and can cause unpleasant chafing. Running belts are a convenient and hands-free method of transporting your essentials. There are numerous aesthetic and storage options, allowing you to select one that meets your demands.

Black belt bag with water bottles.

What is a running belt?

A running belt is a waist-mounted pack that acts similarly to an armband. It is designed to hold your items as you run or exercise. While a running belt can serve other purposes, such as carrying water bottles, its primary role is to hold your phone and keys.

A running belt is a hands-free option for carrying your smartphone and other gadgets while running. These belts come in a variety of sizes and shapes. They can accommodate your phone, water bottles, and even money. The purpose of the belt is to keep these items secure and free your hands.

How is a running belt worn?

It is essential to get the optimal fit for your running belt to ensure that it is comfortable and does not slip or bounce. For optimal results, wrap the belt around your hips and situate it directly over your belly button. If the belt has a buckle or clasp closing, adjust and fasten the strap so that it feels secure.

How can a running belt be cleaned?

Some running belts are machine-washable, so they may be washed along with your workout attire. However, if a belt has reflective features or water-resistant material, washing it in a machine or drying it in a dryer may compromise their effectiveness. In this scenario, wash the belt by hand in a sink with cold water and laundry detergent before hanging it to dry.

Tips for Selecting a Running Belt

1. Determine the proper running belt fit

The pouch of your running belt should be positioned in front, low, and at the broadest area of your hips. Be sure to measure your hips beforehand to ensure that you purchase the correct size belt. Plus points if the running belt features adjustable straps. Because you want to be able to adjust it so that it fits snugly against your body and doesn’t jiggle as you run.

2. Evaluate hydration capacities.

It is essential to stay hydrated while running or training for a long event. It reduces the likelihood of weariness, heatstroke, and dehydration. Depending on your hydration needs (and how far you intend to run), you may require more or fewer bottle slots on your running belt. Make sure the bottles are easy to use with one hand, have a quick-flow spout, and are equipped with a silicone mouthpiece. It should be easy to slide the bottle into and out of the holsters so that you don’t slow down or splash water on yourself when rehydrating.

Midsection of young athlete with sport bottle of water isotonic drink on his waist.

3. Pay attention to pouch size.

No run would be complete without a smartphone for fitness apps and music. And if you’re training for a 5K or just want to carry a bit extra, you may want a larger pouch to accommodate additional fuel such as protein bars, credit cards, and cash.

4. Consider the material type.

Check the materials used in running belts, as some are more effective at regulating body temperature and preventing sweat from penetrating. 

5. Invest in essential features.

Some running belts include additional features to accommodate your running needs. Consider additional features such as: 

  • Reflective accents for high visibility 
  • Integrated bib toggles for racing 
  • Loops for energy gel packets
  • Sunglasses pouch 
  • Separate phone case or add-on 
  • Bottle holster add-on 
  • Interior pocket for identification, cash, and credit cards 
  • Luminous color options

Benefits of Running Belts

1. They are quite comfortable.

In addition to fitting snugly around your waist, running belts significantly improve the comfort of your runs. If you opt to run while carrying your items by hand, this can rapidly become tiresome.

Holding objects for any length of time is quite painful. If you begin a run with your keys in one hand and a water bottle in the other, you will quickly discover how irritating and taxing it is on your hands.

This additional weight in your hands would begin to slow you down and distract you from your run, neither of which are desirable.

During a run, hands tend to sweat, which makes carrying goods by hand impracticable and dangerous. Nobody wants their phone or water bottle to fall through their fingers by accident.

To add to this potential series of misfortunes, a hand cramp is unavoidable when holding an object in the same position. Every runner would agree that carrying items while running is annoying and distracting. Fortunately, these problems can be resolved easily simply carrying your items in a jogging belt.

2. They can carry any necessary first aid supplies.

Training for any running competition may be quite strenuous. Dedicated runners train anywhere, from the city streets to the forest trails.

Accidents might unfortunately occur, so it is always prudent to be prepared. If you are running in the woods and acquire a scratch, it is a wise option to bring first aid supplies.

A black and white running belt.

3. Running belts keep you focused on your runs by eliminating distractions.

Every beginner runner has encountered an interruption during a run. Beginning your training, interruptions might appear inevitable. Perhaps you are on a long run when you become hungry and need to find food. Perhaps you become thirsty and wish to find water.

Interrupting your run by stopping can throw off your rhythm for the remainder of that run. Running belts or backpacks containing the necessities prevent interruptions that are unnecessary. By having all of your running essentials in a single pack, you can stay on course and maintain your concentration.

4. They keep digital gadgets secure and accessible at the same time.

While running, some individuals are enthusiastic listeners of music and podcasts. Music can help you concentrate while running.

A waist belt is an excellent way to carry a music player or other device (using wireless headphones is recommended).

5. Waist pouches immediately contribute to the development of mental strength.

Having the proper mindset while running is crucial for maintaining concentration. If wearing the pack around your waist initially causes discomfort, it is an excellent opportunity to acquire accustomed to something new.

Adapting to the additional weight around your waist aids in both endurance training and mental conditioning. Concentration is essential to running.

To summarize

Running is a popular sport on a global scale. On a treadmill, in your garage, or on the streets, all you need is space to exercise. The crucial step is to get moving! Running is a beneficial cardiovascular workout that promotes general wellness. And getting started is pretty inexpensive.

The most important piece of equipment for running is a pair of comfortable, protective shoes. You also have numerous clothing options. However, once you begin running, you will see how different items might enhance your running experience. 

The running belt is amongst these accessories. It is meant to let runners carry not only their water bottles, but also other necessities. In addition, the best running belts provide safety, convenience, and other practical advantages.