Are you one of those who still ties the house key to the shoelaces or stuffs it in socks? Or holds the phone in your hand while running? Then you should consider a running belt. Here we present 6 selected running belts that you will find hard to run without once you've tried them.
One of the cool things about running is its simplicity. Just tie your shoes and go. Except when running long distances or in the heat. Then you need hydration, maybe some energy products. And you obviously need your phone just in case... And house keys, of course. That's quite a lot... And your smart running gear probably doesn't have enough pockets to store it all. Plus, items bounce annoyingly if kept in pockets while running.
The smart solution to this “problem” is a ! Here you can easily, comfortably, and securely store all your important belongings while running. You can even place them where they stay most stable, around the hips.
Which belt should I choose?
There are many different belts optimized for various purposes. Here are a few tips for what to consider when choosing a hydration belt that best meets your needs.
- Generally, choose a belt that is adjustable and/or made of stretchable material to ensure the belt and your belongings stay close to your body.
- If you have both keys and a smartphone, your belt should have at least two compartments to avoid the key scratching the screen.
- If you need your energy gels easily accessible, choose a belt with specific gel loops so you don't have to struggle with zippers or pockets when you need quick energy.
Running backpack or belt?
Many runners, especially trail runners, use to carry hydration while running. Backpacks allow for significantly more hydration and gear than a belt. But why not avoid the warm, snug backpack if you don't need more than half a liter of water or only need secure storage for your phone and keys?
That's why many runners will greatly benefit from a good running belt. It's more comfortable, quicker to put on, and for most runs, the belt's storage space will be sufficient.
See our selection of here
Below are our running belt favorites
Salomon Active Belt
With the Salomon Active Belt, you have two storage options. The slanted 600 ml water bottle is easy to access - both when taking it out and putting it back. Next to the bottle, there is a zippered pocket, large enough for multiple gels.
For a snug fit, the belt's circumference is easily adjustable.
Salomon Agile 250 Set Belt
Salomon Agile 250 is for runs where you only need a bit of hydration - due to the run length or refill opportunities along the way.
The belt includes a 250 ml bottle, placed in a zippered pocket.
Besides the zippered pocket, there's an additional stretchable pocket for your phone.
The belt's circumference can be adjusted for a snug fit.
Salomon Pulse Belt
The Salomon Pulse Belt is wider, offering great comfort - choosing the correct size is crucial. It's elastic, but not adjustable.
It has two pockets, providing space for both a water bottle and phone.
Elevate Running Belt
The Elevate Running Belt has 3 pockets - a front zippered pocket and two open mesh pockets at the back. The zippered pocket is spacious for phones, while mesh pockets fit smaller items like keys, cards, or gels.
It also has a snug fit that keeps items secure during training without causing discomfort.
Nike Slim Waist Pack 3.0
The Nike Slim Waist Pack 3.0 is a classic, compact belt.
It features a zippered pocket and allows for circumference adjustment for the perfect fit.
Craft Charge Gelbelt
The Craft Charge Gelbelt is also minimalist. It includes a stretchable zippered pocket for your phone. The belt also has 12 loops for storing energy gels and/or bars.
As an extra feature, it has two straps for holding your race number during competitions.
