Over the last few years, we have seen a shift from someone running with a phone carrier around their arm, a running belt around their waist, and a hydration pack on their back to now all of those things condensed into one, said Reid Grott, senior accessories buyer at the running shoe and apparel retailer JackRabbit. This makes it awkward to get on, but it isnt a big deal. We found our iPhone 8 Plus with a Speck case to be a tight fit. 
Its extra-roomy pocket has a water-resistant coating, but it feels hotter to wear. Waistband belts stretch some but arent adjustable, so you have to choose a size; this requires measuring or (ideally) trying them on to get the right fit. Any suggestions? The Best Smartwatches, Fitness Trackers, and Running Watches. She is a certified personal trainer and a runnerboth useful when shes wrangling her two kids. Weve tested dozens of wearables to help you find the best one for your lifestyle, whether its an everyday smartwatch, a fitness tracker, or a running watch. Join lifelong runner, running coach, and mother of two, Whitney Heins, as she talks with experts in areas such as nutrition, training and physical therapy to share their insider knowledge so you can run your best & BE your best in the time that you have. Adjustable belts with one or more pouches. Nathan Zipster Adjustable-Fit Running Belt, in "What would you improve with your running gear? You can cram in a gel or two on top of your other stuff, but because this belt has just one pocket, with no compartmentalization, getting items out when youre running can be fussy. We also eliminated belts that didnt claim to hold large smartphones, such as plus models in the iPhone and Samsung Galaxy lines. If youre looking for an adjustable fit with compartmentalization, the Nathan Adjustable-Fit Zipster has three separate pocketsone zippered, two flap-toppedand an adjustable strap that you secure with a clip that slides into the fabric loop at the end of the belt. The Naked Running Band comes in just one color (black with yellow accents). Also, smaller wearers may not be able to get a snug enough fit. 
We were amazed at how securely it stayed in place when we loaded its three pockets with a smartphone, cards, keys, two gels, and Nakeds soft Running Flask (sold separately), which holds 500 mL or about 17 ounces. 
Phone armbands and handheld water bottles are two options, but designs that can hold both have grown in popularity. In our testing, we ran with the companys Running Flask (which is sold separately and holds 500 mL or about 17 ounces), our iPhone 8 Plus, two gels, three cards, and our keys (on the belts built-in hook), as well as a race bib on the front elastics and a rolled-up windbreaker through the back loops. The belt spun around easily when we needed to access something. The waistband comprises two layers of soft mesh fabric divided into three long top-opening pockets by vertical seams. And nothing bounced, shifted, or got in the way of an arm swing. The belt rode up a ton, with the heavy part of the pack dropping in the back. This model is commodious and comfortable, but its clasp is more finicky than that of our top pick. The two stretchy flap-topped pockets are not weather resistant. A running belt lets you bring your phone, keys, and even water on a run while keeping your handsand pocketsfree. Running belts come in two main styles: adjustable belts and continuous waistbands. The Zipster Lite shines when it comes to its pocket space. This means runners can expect no chafing while wearing the Zipster Lite. The FlipBelt Zipper, however, while a reasonable product for $39, doesn't stack up against its competitors quite as well. On the flip side, the mesh felt cooler than the thicker fabric of other belts we tested. If you want an everyday belt with more pockets, we like the Nathan Adjustable-Fit Zipster. Amy Roberts is a certified personal trainer (NASM-CPT), a running coach (USATF Level 1), and a regionally competitive runner. The FlipBelt always felt light on, but it suddenly feels much heavier even in hand compared to the Zipster Lite. The material also features mesh paneling, making it breathable. Their feedback eliminated three more belts from the, er, running and solidified our four picks. Theyre easier to grab and reholster than other bottles, and theyre more secure than the bottles you can buy separately for the SPIbelt, which also hold less liquid. (No surprise: Tops is carrying a phone.). The structured pocket of the Amphipod AirFlow Lite feels heavier and more solid when packed with a phone, ID, and keys than the softer pockets of other belts, and the super-stretchy belt cant prevent bouncing. (If youre concerned about your phone getting wet, consider popping your phone into a plastic bag before heading out in particularly soggy conditions.) The zipper pull is easy to access during a run and doesnt get swallowed by the fabric. Subscribe now for unlimited access. I would find myself checking that my ID or key fob was still in the belt. Items like chapstick gels, chews, keys, money, ID and earbuds are stores perfectly without wearing the athlete down. For an update to this guide in 2021, Ingrid Skjong ran with seven new contenders.
Nathan is known for its high-quality hydration products for endurance athletes. If youre intrigued by our top pick, the SPIbelt Large Pocket, but want something a tad larger and slightly better equipped to withstand the elements: The SPIbelt Performance Series might suit your needs. To prevent this, wear it lower on the waist.
The Nathan Zipster Adjustable-Fit Running Belt was loved by reviewers at Wirecutter (NYTimes), a highly trusted source that performs reliable in-depth testing. All delivered for FREE!
Does anythingthe belt or its contentspoke or sit weirdly? It also doesnt offer a belt extender, whereas our top pick does. The bands are one-size-fits-most, with a wide size rangefrom about 24 to 46 inchesand their adjustability allows you to wear them with different thicknesses of clothing or on different spots on your body, as well as to tighten or loosen them while you run. These are designed essentially to be pockets for the runner. To keep the belt snug and less likely to bounce, Amy wore it near her natural waist (about 25 inches, or 1 inch smaller than the smallest size its supposed to fit). The bottles are also smaller than most, capable of holding just 6 ounces each. A good one does its job with zero bouncing or discomfort. But securing that tail is an extra step that our top pick, the SPIbelt Large Pocket, doesnt require. (On the iPhone 8 Plus, we used the Speck Presidio Grip case, the current Wirecutter pick for more phone protection.). The Adjustable-Fit Zipster is one-size-fits-most, which, according to the companys size chart, accommodates waists from about 26 inches to 44 inches, though we found the belt was able to fit up to 46 inches. This is something the FlipBelt doesnt do, which was a major reason why so many people purchase the product. Some have zippers or key clips for security, while others close with fabric flaps and use the fabrics tension to keep items inside. The SPIbelt Large Pocket also works with a belt extender (sold separately). Good for long-distance runners or always-prepared types, this nearly bounce-free waistband has a pocket, loop, and clip for stowing your stuffbut it costs more than most of our other picks.
During both short and mid-distance runs, this running belt felt invisible on and didnt budge at all. Does an adjustable belt fit snugly enough? This meant pulling the band to its tightest setting; although the belt stayed put, having the belt at its tightest created very long strap ends that flapped around. The belt also bounced a bit with a phone in the zippered pocket. We interviewed Alice Holland, DPT, a running physical therapist and co-founder of Stride Strong Physical Therapy in Portland, Oregon, to learn about the body mechanics involved with carrying stuff while you run. But neither model is fully waterproof; we suggest popping anything youd rather not get wet into a plastic bag for extra protection. Before even discussing the product, its important to know the importance of running belts in general. After researching and testing 32 types of insoles, we think the Superfeet Green for men and the Superfeet Blueberry for women are the best for most people. As for the FlipBelt Zipper - iMore, a source that conducts reliable hands-on testing, has featured it in its Best iPhone 12 Pro Cases for Runners 2022 roundup. For minimalists, this zippered pouch holds essentials and stays put with a comfortable, stretchy band that tidily adjusts to fit most waistsno dangling tails. The Amphipod RunLite 10K Hydration Belt rode up frequently, and we had difficulty pushing it back into place because the silicone-strip-backed belt had no stretch. If youre looking for a way to carry plenty of liquidor if you particularly want to bring both water and a sports drinkconsider this belt, which comes with two 10-ounce plastic flasks. However, it didn't make it to any of the top spots. Overall this model felt on the cheap side.
Because the belt had no stretch, it rode up a lot and was impossible to get back into place without our unbuckling it. Though the Adjustable-Fit Zipster covers more area than the SPIbelt Large Pocket, the fabric is smooth and remains comfortably cool even in sticky conditions. Secondarily, gear such as water bottles and gels should be easy to stow and access on the run. The downside of the pockets sweat-wicking fabric is that it offers no water resistance. The soft synthetic materials didnt chafe our skin, either. The design seems like a nice idea for organization, but in our tests the belt sat awkwardly with a large phone in one of its pockets. Learn more. The Amphipod Profile Lite High Five-K Belt was hard to adjust and rode up. You clip it onno stepping into it, as you have to do with waistband stylesand adjust it to fit above or below whatever layers of clothing youre wearing that day. Writer Amy Roberts is a certified running coach (USATF and RRCA) and has reviewed gear for runners, from shoes to GPS watches, for Wirecutter. We liked the feel of the Salomon Pulse Hydration Belt, which has a mesh back and lightweight nylon front. Although the company clearly states that this belt is not waterproof, during a very rainy 5-miler the contents of the pouchincluding our phonestayed dry. With the adjustable band tightened snugly, it doesnt bounce during runs. Like other waistband-style belts, its not adjustable. One design drawback is that the hole to thread a headphone cord through proved too small for the three pairs of wired earbuds we tried. The FlipBelt has a zippered option, but only includes one zippered pocket. If you need to tote more stuff than the SPIbelt Large Pocket can hold, or if you prefer several separate pockets on an adjustable belt with a low profile, the Nathan Adjustable-Fit Zipster is a solid choice. This belt has a nice, large zippered pocket and one mesh pocket that proved useful. But this runner has experienced some sliding up the waist during long runs. The single stretch-fabric pocket can hold a large phone (the SPIbelt website says that includes an iPhone 12 Pro Max or a Galaxy Note 20 Ultra), cards, and keys. There are four pockets in total, but it really feels like its just one large pocket after another around the entire belt. We found that the bottom edge of the Ultimate Direction Comfort Belt curled under in the front, and the back bunched up if not filled with stuffbut if we filled it too full, it bounced a lot. Accessibility: How easy (or not) is it to reach the contents of the pockets or to remove the water bottles? Its plastic bottles seal securely; we experienced no leaking, yet we could quickly pull open the rubbery tops with teeth or fingers for fast sipping. Their bands are hard to adjust and too stretchy, so the pocket is more inclined to bounce. Just enjoy added perks like being more lightweight and having better materialespecially during hot runs. If you need to tote water, the squirt-capped SPI H2O Companion bottles (sold separately) fit the band securely. In the FlipBelt it defiantly goes noticed at first. The Naked Running Band is available in 12 sizesthree times as many as are available for other, similar waistbandsfrom about 28 to 39 inches. Though it kept our phone dry on a sweaty 5-miler, it got slightly damp on a humid 90-degree day while we were walking. It was comfortable to run in, too, whether it was full or holding just a few items. If organization and capacity are tops on your list, the stretchy mesh Naked Running Band may be worth a look. The Nathan Zipster Adjustable-Fit Running Belt is a great Running Belt for its $30 asking price. It allows the runner to be hands-free while storing goods. The New Balance Performance Waist Pack (currently unavailable) stayed comfortably in place in our experience, but we struggled to think of a reason a runner would need a belt with so much boxy, unspecialized storage space, especially as the belts large size could make it feel too hot. Nathans Zipster Lite is a worthy buy for just $29.99. I wore the Zipster Lite both over and under my shirt. Wirecutter is the product recommendation service from The New York Times. When the dust settled, our final testing pool consisted of 31 belts from 17 manufacturers. The Zipster Lite is one of the most comfortable running belts to run with and will be a major hit among anyone who swears by their FlipBelt. Unfortunately, neither of our test phones fit into the pocket. But the more you fill it, the heavier and more lopsided the belt gets, which could lead to its bouncing, shifting, or riding up. We also bumped the front-button buckle by accident, which sent the belt flying off. Once Amy got the pair situatedjust inside her hip points with the pocket to the backshe had no issues with bouncing or sloshing, nor any unpleasant pressure from the inch-wide band or the bottles hooks. As a result, it conforms to fit around the waist like a perfect fit.
What makes the SPIbelt better than many similar belts is that the band shortens and lengthens easily, even on the fly, with no dangling strap ends. With no buckle, the band can be trickier to get into and out ofyou have to pull it up over your hips. Like many runners out there, this runner was a FlipBelt user. Just make sure to consult the sizing guide to get the right size. The Nathan Zipster, our previous runner-up pick, has been discontinued. Thats 3 inches less than what we found to be the maximum of our top pick, and Nathan does not offer a separate extender for this belt (whereas SPIbelt does for our top pick). The Ultraspire Fitted Race Belt is similar to the Naked Running Band but not as user-friendly: The pockets arent as versatile nor are the pull loops as easy to grab, and the belt can bunch up in back if that pocket is empty. An elastic band secures the tail of the strap when the belt is tightened, but fastening it is an extra step that the SPIbelt Large Pocket doesnt require, and the clip can be fussier to close than the SPIbelts buckle. A long-term tester reported: Its a little awkward when I try to put non-flat things in it like keys along with my phone, but its very low profile and doesnt bounce around at all once you dial in the fit.. Touted for short distance running or fast-paced walking, the CamelBak Flash Belt feels comfortable, and the structured slot for the included 17-ounce bottle makes the bottle fairly easy to slip in and out. If you're considering Running Belts in the $50 range, you might want to check out some better options. Carrying one could cause soreness, cramping, and, over time, injury to the shoulder muscles (from modifying your arm swing) and forearm muscles (from gripping), and even hip, knee, or hamstring issues related to those upper-body form alterations. In contrast to continuous-waistband designs, the Adjustable-Fit Zipster adjusts, thanks to a clip that you slide into the fabric end of the belt before pulling the strap tight (or loosening it). These folks, with waist sizes ranging from 27 to 49 inches, each ran on the treadmill and the road (up to a 20-mile run, in the case of one marathoner). (She ended up tying them, awkwardly, in front of the belt buckle.) The FlipBelt is also reliable for not moving when on. The FlipBelt is made of lycra but has moisture-wicking properties. Thank you for joining us on our mission to help runners reach their goals. You can adjust the belt from about 25 to 47 or more inches, and it has no annoying dangling straps, unlike many such pouch-on-a-strap-style belts. More annoyingly, because the inside space is largely wide open from hip to hip, items can be hard to fish out, plus the seamed edges of the bands edges tend to curl and roll. Does the belt bounce, ride up, chafe, dig in, or otherwise become uncomfortable? Members receive ongoing support from certified coaches, race guides, videos, interviews with experts, and more Join for free today! But it worked nicely for us. The slightly stretchy band of the Nathan TrailMix Plus made it the most stable of the two-bottle belts we tested, a style designed for max hydration on the run. Our journalists combine independent research with (occasionally) over-the-top testing to save people time, energy and money when making buying decisions. If you just want to carry stuff with you and keep your hands and pockets free, its an ideal option. Armbands and handhelds arent ideal if they cause you to alter your natural running form (nor is simply clutching your phone in your hand). It comes in 12 sizes (three times more than some others do); they fit waists ranging from about 28 to 39 inches (but no larger). Its the ideal product for runners or cyclists looking to get in some miles without worrying about needing pockets or how they will carry light gear. Wirecutter senior staff writer Ingrid Skjong is a certified personal trainer (NASM) and lifelong runner who has completed five marathons, several half-marathons, and numerous shorter-distance races. The soft, optional Running Flask doesnt leak and compresses as you sip.
We experienced no bouncing, and the belt shifted only slightly on occasionin fact, we often forgot it was even there. When it comes to running headphones, one size definitely doesnt fit allso we have multiple recommendations based on style, features, and price. We felt no chafing on bare skin in any scenario. You can also squeeze and squirt the bottles to douse your head when youre running in hot weather. The Amphipod AirFlow MicroStretch Plus and AirFlow MicroStretch Plus Luxe, identical aside from their mesh and nylon-polyester fabric, respectively, share a couple of flaws. Weve been seeing a lot of misleading information surrounding runner nutrition, protein and carbohydrate intake, and the Running is a wonderful full-body strengthening exercise. We independently review everything we recommend. Ingrid Skjong is a senior staff writer covering fitness at Wirecutter, testing everything from running watches to stationary bikes. SPIbelts bottles (sold separately) affix securely to the belt with large hooklike clips. Both also cannot store water. So to my delight, I found that Nathans Zipster Lite also didnt bounce, but that was just the start of the many pleasant surprises I uncovered during my runs while using it. Because not every runner has the same body shape or size, for our initial testing in 2018 and 2019, Amy Roberts distributed eight belt finalists to a dozen runners in New York City, including Wirecutter editor-in-chief Ben Frumin, who was training for a half marathon. An Amazon best seller, the Sport2People Running Belt consists of two long pockets and an adjustable elastic belt. The Amazon best-selling Urpower Running Belt seems cheaper than most belts weve tested (because it is), and in our experience one water bottle leaked badly until we got the cap on just right. Items fit fine in the pockets of the UltrAspire Essential Bottle Pack, and the band felt secure, but the buckle landed oddly on the right hip point, and we could feel the pack sway side to side as we ran. Its our pick for runners who live in hot or arid climates or who often run where water sources arent accessible. The sites methodolog in 15 Best Running Belts To Carry All Essentials (2022) Buying Guide, in Best iPhone 12 Pro Cases for Runners 2022, {"store":null,"amazon_tag":null,"product_generation_ids":["node_pgen_52buqnboyu7qjfzclmlngu3xv5iv7mq7tv7pkohu6lh5pimf","node_pgen_k64woqs5ajjqvmldmxsc3orcizk4cm3vwbqkfq24vfu3cps4"]}, Best iPhone 12 Pro Cases for Runners 2022. We couldnt get our iPhone 8 Plus to fit in the pocket of the Nathan Peak Hydration Waist Pak. We recommend the SPIbelt Large Pocket for daily runs. We struggled to figure out how to effectively access the bottle (it fell out for us once), particularly when it was full and didnt seem to fit well in the pouch. There is also a key hook, a feature the Zipster Lite doesnt have. This design seems like it would be good for security, but even when using the pull loops, we werent sure whether we were getting things into the pockets or putting them entirely behind the band. The belt remained in position for most of our run, sitting flush and not riding up, although a few times it migrated upward depending on what we wore underneath (a tight-fitting running top versus a looser T-shirt). We like the compartmentalization; in our tests, we typically zipped our iPhone XS and a credit card into the main pocket and tucked our keys, earbuds, and other small necessities into the others. The belt is designed to fit up to only a 44-inch waist, a smaller maximum than for most of our other picks; our 49-inch-waist tester wasnt able to put it on. And if you prefer to wear the belt in the back, you can easily spin it around if you need to get something out mid-run. The lopsided weight and sloshing of a handheld water bottleand the need to grip itare more problematic. The Naked Running Band wowed us with how much it could holdand hold stableon a run. Our iPhone 8 Plus was a really tight fit in its pocket, too. I will say that my phone fit much for comfortably in the Zippier Lite.
These are also weather-resistant. Some consumers find it hard to get the right fit. These two things combined made it my gear go-to when getting in some quick miles. The Fitletic Hydra 16 Hydration Belt bounced constantly, rode up often, and twisted mid-run, with lots of chafing, even through clothes. We found it most comfortable to wear around the narrowest part of the torso. As a last step, we wanted to do a head-to-head Nathan Zipster Adjustable-Fit Running Belt vs. FlipBelt Zipper comparison of their review performance but, unfortunately, weren't able to find any review ratings on either product. Order a couple of sizes and return whatever doesnt work for you. ", in "What are some good ways to keep your valuables from getting swiped?". A running belt provides the most convenient, lowest-profile, and most ergonomic means of carrying your stuff when you go for a run. The Adjustable-Fit Zipster is available in three colors (black, sailor blue, and gray). We now recommend the Nathan Adjustable-Fit Zipster as our new runner-up. And larger-waisted runners can purchase a separately available belt extender, which adds up to 12 inches of length. While being lightweight is its main selling feature, the amount of storage space is another attractive feature. Its the most stable and comfortable two-bottle belt that weve tested. ", in "Where do you keep your phone while you run? However, running with the Zipster Lite, I never had this concern because everything tucked in snug and secure. That is until I started running with the Nathan Zipster Lite. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Continuous waistbands with single hydration bottles. We may earn a commission after clicking links on the site before making a purchase. The front and back pockets have zippers. If youre looking for a convenient, comfortable, affordable way to bring must-haves with you on everyday runs, the SPIbelt Large Pocket is it. Just keep in mind that the more gear that is packed into these running belts, the bulkier they become. We nixed belts from brands with no established track record or web presence other than an Amazon listing. The FuelBelt Ergo, which comes in mens and womens fits, holds the bottles nearly horizontally on one side with the phone pocket on the other, a design that in theory should balance the weight better than most. The single pocket, which measures approximately 8 inches by 4 inches, stretches to fit extra-large phones with enough additional give for you to squeeze in keys and cards. The clip closure is also a bit more finicky than the buckle of our top pick, as it occasionally caught when we took the belt off or put it on. All these wearables can get notifications, track runs, and monitor fitness level, but each type is best suited to only one task. The soft-fabric Stashbandz is wider than many belts, and extra-large phones fit in its zipper pocket fine, but the zipper is inset with a small pull that gets lost in the fabric. RunnerClick is reader-supported. Nathan Zipster Lite Review: How It Compares To The FlipBelt, Members receive ongoing support from certified coaches, race guides, videos, interviews with experts, and more, Nutrition for Runners: Carbohydrate and Protein Recommendations, How to Fix a Muscle Imbalance in the Legs, Couch To 5K: 8 Week Couch To 5K Training Plan, The Most Effective Protein Shake Routine For Runners. The Aqua Quest Kona Waist Pouch, a previous pick, looks like a supersized version of the SPIbelt. Adjustable belts with single hydration bottles. Adjustable-belt designs comprise at minimum a single zippered pouch and rely on a buckled band that makes them quick and easy to put on and take off. The FlipBelt comes in more sizes, including an XXS and XXL. ", in "Im looking for a waist bag that isnt too conspicuous but is compartmented and easy on the eyes. She has worked on other fitness reviews for Wirecutter, including our guides to foam rollers, treadmills, and connected indoor-cycling bikes. Whether it's finding great products or discovering helpful advice, we'll help you get it right (the first time). Its not necessarily the weight of the [handheld bottle or armband], but rather the change in posture and behavior as a result of the runners awareness of [them] that affects their run, explained physical therapist Alice Holland in an email interview. The belt stays just as firmly in place even when you dont have much in itthough if you dont often need to bring much, it may be too much belt. Amy tested a size 2 to fit at her 29-inch lower waist but ended up wearing it a little higher (closer to her 25-inch natural waist) and probably wouldve been fine with a size 1. It also failed to fit snugly and ended up bouncing a lot. Incorporating two 10-ounce water bottles, this belt lets you carry your water and sports drink separately. The bottleseach capable of holding 10 ounces or about 300 mL of water or sports drinkslide easily in and out of the holsters, which flank a plenty-roomy compartmentalized pack that can hold an extra-large phone, cards, keys, and gels. We are excited for you and th Carbs often get all of the hype when running, but protein plays a big part in your performance. Fit: Comfort is key. Its just as comfortable when its holding less stuff, too, and in our tests it didnt chafe bare skinin contrast, other mesh belts felt coarse.
Its extra-roomy pocket has a water-resistant coating, but it feels hotter to wear. Waistband belts stretch some but arent adjustable, so you have to choose a size; this requires measuring or (ideally) trying them on to get the right fit. Any suggestions? The Best Smartwatches, Fitness Trackers, and Running Watches. She is a certified personal trainer and a runnerboth useful when shes wrangling her two kids. Weve tested dozens of wearables to help you find the best one for your lifestyle, whether its an everyday smartwatch, a fitness tracker, or a running watch. Join lifelong runner, running coach, and mother of two, Whitney Heins, as she talks with experts in areas such as nutrition, training and physical therapy to share their insider knowledge so you can run your best & BE your best in the time that you have. Adjustable belts with one or more pouches. Nathan Zipster Adjustable-Fit Running Belt, in "What would you improve with your running gear? You can cram in a gel or two on top of your other stuff, but because this belt has just one pocket, with no compartmentalization, getting items out when youre running can be fussy. We also eliminated belts that didnt claim to hold large smartphones, such as plus models in the iPhone and Samsung Galaxy lines. If youre looking for an adjustable fit with compartmentalization, the Nathan Adjustable-Fit Zipster has three separate pocketsone zippered, two flap-toppedand an adjustable strap that you secure with a clip that slides into the fabric loop at the end of the belt. The Naked Running Band comes in just one color (black with yellow accents). Also, smaller wearers may not be able to get a snug enough fit. We were amazed at how securely it stayed in place when we loaded its three pockets with a smartphone, cards, keys, two gels, and Nakeds soft Running Flask (sold separately), which holds 500 mL or about 17 ounces. Phone armbands and handheld water bottles are two options, but designs that can hold both have grown in popularity. In our testing, we ran with the companys Running Flask (which is sold separately and holds 500 mL or about 17 ounces), our iPhone 8 Plus, two gels, three cards, and our keys (on the belts built-in hook), as well as a race bib on the front elastics and a rolled-up windbreaker through the back loops. The belt spun around easily when we needed to access something. The waistband comprises two layers of soft mesh fabric divided into three long top-opening pockets by vertical seams. And nothing bounced, shifted, or got in the way of an arm swing. The belt rode up a ton, with the heavy part of the pack dropping in the back. This model is commodious and comfortable, but its clasp is more finicky than that of our top pick. The two stretchy flap-topped pockets are not weather resistant. A running belt lets you bring your phone, keys, and even water on a run while keeping your handsand pocketsfree. Running belts come in two main styles: adjustable belts and continuous waistbands. The Zipster Lite shines when it comes to its pocket space. This means runners can expect no chafing while wearing the Zipster Lite. The FlipBelt Zipper, however, while a reasonable product for $39, doesn't stack up against its competitors quite as well. On the flip side, the mesh felt cooler than the thicker fabric of other belts we tested. If you want an everyday belt with more pockets, we like the Nathan Adjustable-Fit Zipster. Amy Roberts is a certified personal trainer (NASM-CPT), a running coach (USATF Level 1), and a regionally competitive runner. The FlipBelt always felt light on, but it suddenly feels much heavier even in hand compared to the Zipster Lite. The material also features mesh paneling, making it breathable. Their feedback eliminated three more belts from the, er, running and solidified our four picks. Theyre easier to grab and reholster than other bottles, and theyre more secure than the bottles you can buy separately for the SPIbelt, which also hold less liquid. (No surprise: Tops is carrying a phone.). The structured pocket of the Amphipod AirFlow Lite feels heavier and more solid when packed with a phone, ID, and keys than the softer pockets of other belts, and the super-stretchy belt cant prevent bouncing. (If youre concerned about your phone getting wet, consider popping your phone into a plastic bag before heading out in particularly soggy conditions.) The zipper pull is easy to access during a run and doesnt get swallowed by the fabric. Subscribe now for unlimited access. I would find myself checking that my ID or key fob was still in the belt. Items like chapstick gels, chews, keys, money, ID and earbuds are stores perfectly without wearing the athlete down. For an update to this guide in 2021, Ingrid Skjong ran with seven new contenders. Nathan is known for its high-quality hydration products for endurance athletes. If youre intrigued by our top pick, the SPIbelt Large Pocket, but want something a tad larger and slightly better equipped to withstand the elements: The SPIbelt Performance Series might suit your needs. To prevent this, wear it lower on the waist.
The Nathan Zipster Adjustable-Fit Running Belt was loved by reviewers at Wirecutter (NYTimes), a highly trusted source that performs reliable in-depth testing. All delivered for FREE!
Does anythingthe belt or its contentspoke or sit weirdly? It also doesnt offer a belt extender, whereas our top pick does. The bands are one-size-fits-most, with a wide size rangefrom about 24 to 46 inchesand their adjustability allows you to wear them with different thicknesses of clothing or on different spots on your body, as well as to tighten or loosen them while you run. These are designed essentially to be pockets for the runner. To keep the belt snug and less likely to bounce, Amy wore it near her natural waist (about 25 inches, or 1 inch smaller than the smallest size its supposed to fit). The bottles are also smaller than most, capable of holding just 6 ounces each. A good one does its job with zero bouncing or discomfort. But securing that tail is an extra step that our top pick, the SPIbelt Large Pocket, doesnt require. (On the iPhone 8 Plus, we used the Speck Presidio Grip case, the current Wirecutter pick for more phone protection.). The Adjustable-Fit Zipster is one-size-fits-most, which, according to the companys size chart, accommodates waists from about 26 inches to 44 inches, though we found the belt was able to fit up to 46 inches. This is something the FlipBelt doesnt do, which was a major reason why so many people purchase the product. Some have zippers or key clips for security, while others close with fabric flaps and use the fabrics tension to keep items inside. The SPIbelt Large Pocket also works with a belt extender (sold separately). Good for long-distance runners or always-prepared types, this nearly bounce-free waistband has a pocket, loop, and clip for stowing your stuffbut it costs more than most of our other picks.
During both short and mid-distance runs, this running belt felt invisible on and didnt budge at all. Does an adjustable belt fit snugly enough? This meant pulling the band to its tightest setting; although the belt stayed put, having the belt at its tightest created very long strap ends that flapped around. The belt also bounced a bit with a phone in the zippered pocket. We interviewed Alice Holland, DPT, a running physical therapist and co-founder of Stride Strong Physical Therapy in Portland, Oregon, to learn about the body mechanics involved with carrying stuff while you run. But neither model is fully waterproof; we suggest popping anything youd rather not get wet into a plastic bag for extra protection. Before even discussing the product, its important to know the importance of running belts in general. After researching and testing 32 types of insoles, we think the Superfeet Green for men and the Superfeet Blueberry for women are the best for most people. As for the FlipBelt Zipper - iMore, a source that conducts reliable hands-on testing, has featured it in its Best iPhone 12 Pro Cases for Runners 2022 roundup. For minimalists, this zippered pouch holds essentials and stays put with a comfortable, stretchy band that tidily adjusts to fit most waistsno dangling tails. The Amphipod RunLite 10K Hydration Belt rode up frequently, and we had difficulty pushing it back into place because the silicone-strip-backed belt had no stretch. If youre looking for a way to carry plenty of liquidor if you particularly want to bring both water and a sports drinkconsider this belt, which comes with two 10-ounce plastic flasks. However, it didn't make it to any of the top spots. Overall this model felt on the cheap side.
Because the belt had no stretch, it rode up a lot and was impossible to get back into place without our unbuckling it. Though the Adjustable-Fit Zipster covers more area than the SPIbelt Large Pocket, the fabric is smooth and remains comfortably cool even in sticky conditions. Secondarily, gear such as water bottles and gels should be easy to stow and access on the run. The downside of the pockets sweat-wicking fabric is that it offers no water resistance. The soft synthetic materials didnt chafe our skin, either. The design seems like a nice idea for organization, but in our tests the belt sat awkwardly with a large phone in one of its pockets. Learn more. The Amphipod Profile Lite High Five-K Belt was hard to adjust and rode up. You clip it onno stepping into it, as you have to do with waistband stylesand adjust it to fit above or below whatever layers of clothing youre wearing that day. Writer Amy Roberts is a certified running coach (USATF and RRCA) and has reviewed gear for runners, from shoes to GPS watches, for Wirecutter. We liked the feel of the Salomon Pulse Hydration Belt, which has a mesh back and lightweight nylon front. Although the company clearly states that this belt is not waterproof, during a very rainy 5-miler the contents of the pouchincluding our phonestayed dry. With the adjustable band tightened snugly, it doesnt bounce during runs. Like other waistband-style belts, its not adjustable. One design drawback is that the hole to thread a headphone cord through proved too small for the three pairs of wired earbuds we tried. The FlipBelt has a zippered option, but only includes one zippered pocket. If you need to tote more stuff than the SPIbelt Large Pocket can hold, or if you prefer several separate pockets on an adjustable belt with a low profile, the Nathan Adjustable-Fit Zipster is a solid choice. This belt has a nice, large zippered pocket and one mesh pocket that proved useful. But this runner has experienced some sliding up the waist during long runs. The single stretch-fabric pocket can hold a large phone (the SPIbelt website says that includes an iPhone 12 Pro Max or a Galaxy Note 20 Ultra), cards, and keys. There are four pockets in total, but it really feels like its just one large pocket after another around the entire belt. We found that the bottom edge of the Ultimate Direction Comfort Belt curled under in the front, and the back bunched up if not filled with stuffbut if we filled it too full, it bounced a lot. Accessibility: How easy (or not) is it to reach the contents of the pockets or to remove the water bottles? Its plastic bottles seal securely; we experienced no leaking, yet we could quickly pull open the rubbery tops with teeth or fingers for fast sipping. Their bands are hard to adjust and too stretchy, so the pocket is more inclined to bounce. Just enjoy added perks like being more lightweight and having better materialespecially during hot runs. If you need to tote water, the squirt-capped SPI H2O Companion bottles (sold separately) fit the band securely. In the FlipBelt it defiantly goes noticed at first. The Naked Running Band is available in 12 sizesthree times as many as are available for other, similar waistbandsfrom about 28 to 39 inches. Though it kept our phone dry on a sweaty 5-miler, it got slightly damp on a humid 90-degree day while we were walking. It was comfortable to run in, too, whether it was full or holding just a few items. If organization and capacity are tops on your list, the stretchy mesh Naked Running Band may be worth a look. The Nathan Zipster Adjustable-Fit Running Belt is a great Running Belt for its $30 asking price. It allows the runner to be hands-free while storing goods. The New Balance Performance Waist Pack (currently unavailable) stayed comfortably in place in our experience, but we struggled to think of a reason a runner would need a belt with so much boxy, unspecialized storage space, especially as the belts large size could make it feel too hot. Nathans Zipster Lite is a worthy buy for just $29.99. I wore the Zipster Lite both over and under my shirt. Wirecutter is the product recommendation service from The New York Times. When the dust settled, our final testing pool consisted of 31 belts from 17 manufacturers. The Zipster Lite is one of the most comfortable running belts to run with and will be a major hit among anyone who swears by their FlipBelt. Unfortunately, neither of our test phones fit into the pocket. But the more you fill it, the heavier and more lopsided the belt gets, which could lead to its bouncing, shifting, or riding up. We also bumped the front-button buckle by accident, which sent the belt flying off. Once Amy got the pair situatedjust inside her hip points with the pocket to the backshe had no issues with bouncing or sloshing, nor any unpleasant pressure from the inch-wide band or the bottles hooks. As a result, it conforms to fit around the waist like a perfect fit.
What makes the SPIbelt better than many similar belts is that the band shortens and lengthens easily, even on the fly, with no dangling strap ends. With no buckle, the band can be trickier to get into and out ofyou have to pull it up over your hips. Like many runners out there, this runner was a FlipBelt user. Just make sure to consult the sizing guide to get the right size. The Nathan Zipster, our previous runner-up pick, has been discontinued. Thats 3 inches less than what we found to be the maximum of our top pick, and Nathan does not offer a separate extender for this belt (whereas SPIbelt does for our top pick). The Ultraspire Fitted Race Belt is similar to the Naked Running Band but not as user-friendly: The pockets arent as versatile nor are the pull loops as easy to grab, and the belt can bunch up in back if that pocket is empty. An elastic band secures the tail of the strap when the belt is tightened, but fastening it is an extra step that the SPIbelt Large Pocket doesnt require, and the clip can be fussier to close than the SPIbelts buckle. A long-term tester reported: Its a little awkward when I try to put non-flat things in it like keys along with my phone, but its very low profile and doesnt bounce around at all once you dial in the fit.. Touted for short distance running or fast-paced walking, the CamelBak Flash Belt feels comfortable, and the structured slot for the included 17-ounce bottle makes the bottle fairly easy to slip in and out. If you're considering Running Belts in the $50 range, you might want to check out some better options. Carrying one could cause soreness, cramping, and, over time, injury to the shoulder muscles (from modifying your arm swing) and forearm muscles (from gripping), and even hip, knee, or hamstring issues related to those upper-body form alterations. In contrast to continuous-waistband designs, the Adjustable-Fit Zipster adjusts, thanks to a clip that you slide into the fabric end of the belt before pulling the strap tight (or loosening it). These folks, with waist sizes ranging from 27 to 49 inches, each ran on the treadmill and the road (up to a 20-mile run, in the case of one marathoner). (She ended up tying them, awkwardly, in front of the belt buckle.) The FlipBelt is also reliable for not moving when on. The FlipBelt is made of lycra but has moisture-wicking properties. Thank you for joining us on our mission to help runners reach their goals. You can adjust the belt from about 25 to 47 or more inches, and it has no annoying dangling straps, unlike many such pouch-on-a-strap-style belts. More annoyingly, because the inside space is largely wide open from hip to hip, items can be hard to fish out, plus the seamed edges of the bands edges tend to curl and roll. Does the belt bounce, ride up, chafe, dig in, or otherwise become uncomfortable? Members receive ongoing support from certified coaches, race guides, videos, interviews with experts, and more Join for free today! But it worked nicely for us. The slightly stretchy band of the Nathan TrailMix Plus made it the most stable of the two-bottle belts we tested, a style designed for max hydration on the run. Our journalists combine independent research with (occasionally) over-the-top testing to save people time, energy and money when making buying decisions. If you just want to carry stuff with you and keep your hands and pockets free, its an ideal option. Armbands and handhelds arent ideal if they cause you to alter your natural running form (nor is simply clutching your phone in your hand). It comes in 12 sizes (three times more than some others do); they fit waists ranging from about 28 to 39 inches (but no larger). Its the ideal product for runners or cyclists looking to get in some miles without worrying about needing pockets or how they will carry light gear. Wirecutter senior staff writer Ingrid Skjong is a certified personal trainer (NASM) and lifelong runner who has completed five marathons, several half-marathons, and numerous shorter-distance races. The soft, optional Running Flask doesnt leak and compresses as you sip.
We experienced no bouncing, and the belt shifted only slightly on occasionin fact, we often forgot it was even there. When it comes to running headphones, one size definitely doesnt fit allso we have multiple recommendations based on style, features, and price. We felt no chafing on bare skin in any scenario. You can also squeeze and squirt the bottles to douse your head when youre running in hot weather. The Amphipod AirFlow MicroStretch Plus and AirFlow MicroStretch Plus Luxe, identical aside from their mesh and nylon-polyester fabric, respectively, share a couple of flaws. Weve been seeing a lot of misleading information surrounding runner nutrition, protein and carbohydrate intake, and the Running is a wonderful full-body strengthening exercise. We independently review everything we recommend. Ingrid Skjong is a senior staff writer covering fitness at Wirecutter, testing everything from running watches to stationary bikes. SPIbelts bottles (sold separately) affix securely to the belt with large hooklike clips. Both also cannot store water. So to my delight, I found that Nathans Zipster Lite also didnt bounce, but that was just the start of the many pleasant surprises I uncovered during my runs while using it. Because not every runner has the same body shape or size, for our initial testing in 2018 and 2019, Amy Roberts distributed eight belt finalists to a dozen runners in New York City, including Wirecutter editor-in-chief Ben Frumin, who was training for a half marathon. An Amazon best seller, the Sport2People Running Belt consists of two long pockets and an adjustable elastic belt. The Amazon best-selling Urpower Running Belt seems cheaper than most belts weve tested (because it is), and in our experience one water bottle leaked badly until we got the cap on just right. Items fit fine in the pockets of the UltrAspire Essential Bottle Pack, and the band felt secure, but the buckle landed oddly on the right hip point, and we could feel the pack sway side to side as we ran. Its our pick for runners who live in hot or arid climates or who often run where water sources arent accessible. The sites methodolog in 15 Best Running Belts To Carry All Essentials (2022) Buying Guide, in Best iPhone 12 Pro Cases for Runners 2022, {"store":null,"amazon_tag":null,"product_generation_ids":["node_pgen_52buqnboyu7qjfzclmlngu3xv5iv7mq7tv7pkohu6lh5pimf","node_pgen_k64woqs5ajjqvmldmxsc3orcizk4cm3vwbqkfq24vfu3cps4"]}, Best iPhone 12 Pro Cases for Runners 2022. We couldnt get our iPhone 8 Plus to fit in the pocket of the Nathan Peak Hydration Waist Pak. We recommend the SPIbelt Large Pocket for daily runs. We struggled to figure out how to effectively access the bottle (it fell out for us once), particularly when it was full and didnt seem to fit well in the pouch. There is also a key hook, a feature the Zipster Lite doesnt have. This design seems like it would be good for security, but even when using the pull loops, we werent sure whether we were getting things into the pockets or putting them entirely behind the band. The belt remained in position for most of our run, sitting flush and not riding up, although a few times it migrated upward depending on what we wore underneath (a tight-fitting running top versus a looser T-shirt). We like the compartmentalization; in our tests, we typically zipped our iPhone XS and a credit card into the main pocket and tucked our keys, earbuds, and other small necessities into the others. The belt is designed to fit up to only a 44-inch waist, a smaller maximum than for most of our other picks; our 49-inch-waist tester wasnt able to put it on. And if you prefer to wear the belt in the back, you can easily spin it around if you need to get something out mid-run. The lopsided weight and sloshing of a handheld water bottleand the need to grip itare more problematic. The Naked Running Band wowed us with how much it could holdand hold stableon a run. Our iPhone 8 Plus was a really tight fit in its pocket, too. I will say that my phone fit much for comfortably in the Zippier Lite.
These are also weather-resistant. Some consumers find it hard to get the right fit. These two things combined made it my gear go-to when getting in some quick miles. The Fitletic Hydra 16 Hydration Belt bounced constantly, rode up often, and twisted mid-run, with lots of chafing, even through clothes. We found it most comfortable to wear around the narrowest part of the torso. As a last step, we wanted to do a head-to-head Nathan Zipster Adjustable-Fit Running Belt vs. FlipBelt Zipper comparison of their review performance but, unfortunately, weren't able to find any review ratings on either product. Order a couple of sizes and return whatever doesnt work for you. ", in "What are some good ways to keep your valuables from getting swiped?". A running belt provides the most convenient, lowest-profile, and most ergonomic means of carrying your stuff when you go for a run. The Adjustable-Fit Zipster is available in three colors (black, sailor blue, and gray). We now recommend the Nathan Adjustable-Fit Zipster as our new runner-up. And larger-waisted runners can purchase a separately available belt extender, which adds up to 12 inches of length. While being lightweight is its main selling feature, the amount of storage space is another attractive feature. Its the most stable and comfortable two-bottle belt that weve tested. ", in "Where do you keep your phone while you run? However, running with the Zipster Lite, I never had this concern because everything tucked in snug and secure. That is until I started running with the Nathan Zipster Lite. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Continuous waistbands with single hydration bottles. We may earn a commission after clicking links on the site before making a purchase. The front and back pockets have zippers. If youre looking for a convenient, comfortable, affordable way to bring must-haves with you on everyday runs, the SPIbelt Large Pocket is it. Just keep in mind that the more gear that is packed into these running belts, the bulkier they become. We nixed belts from brands with no established track record or web presence other than an Amazon listing. The FuelBelt Ergo, which comes in mens and womens fits, holds the bottles nearly horizontally on one side with the phone pocket on the other, a design that in theory should balance the weight better than most. The single pocket, which measures approximately 8 inches by 4 inches, stretches to fit extra-large phones with enough additional give for you to squeeze in keys and cards. The clip closure is also a bit more finicky than the buckle of our top pick, as it occasionally caught when we took the belt off or put it on. All these wearables can get notifications, track runs, and monitor fitness level, but each type is best suited to only one task. The soft-fabric Stashbandz is wider than many belts, and extra-large phones fit in its zipper pocket fine, but the zipper is inset with a small pull that gets lost in the fabric. RunnerClick is reader-supported. Nathan Zipster Lite Review: How It Compares To The FlipBelt, Members receive ongoing support from certified coaches, race guides, videos, interviews with experts, and more, Nutrition for Runners: Carbohydrate and Protein Recommendations, How to Fix a Muscle Imbalance in the Legs, Couch To 5K: 8 Week Couch To 5K Training Plan, The Most Effective Protein Shake Routine For Runners. The Aqua Quest Kona Waist Pouch, a previous pick, looks like a supersized version of the SPIbelt. Adjustable belts with single hydration bottles. Adjustable-belt designs comprise at minimum a single zippered pouch and rely on a buckled band that makes them quick and easy to put on and take off. The FlipBelt comes in more sizes, including an XXS and XXL. ", in "Im looking for a waist bag that isnt too conspicuous but is compartmented and easy on the eyes. She has worked on other fitness reviews for Wirecutter, including our guides to foam rollers, treadmills, and connected indoor-cycling bikes. Whether it's finding great products or discovering helpful advice, we'll help you get it right (the first time). Its not necessarily the weight of the [handheld bottle or armband], but rather the change in posture and behavior as a result of the runners awareness of [them] that affects their run, explained physical therapist Alice Holland in an email interview. The belt stays just as firmly in place even when you dont have much in itthough if you dont often need to bring much, it may be too much belt. Amy tested a size 2 to fit at her 29-inch lower waist but ended up wearing it a little higher (closer to her 25-inch natural waist) and probably wouldve been fine with a size 1. It also failed to fit snugly and ended up bouncing a lot. Incorporating two 10-ounce water bottles, this belt lets you carry your water and sports drink separately. The bottleseach capable of holding 10 ounces or about 300 mL of water or sports drinkslide easily in and out of the holsters, which flank a plenty-roomy compartmentalized pack that can hold an extra-large phone, cards, keys, and gels. We are excited for you and th Carbs often get all of the hype when running, but protein plays a big part in your performance. Fit: Comfort is key. Its just as comfortable when its holding less stuff, too, and in our tests it didnt chafe bare skinin contrast, other mesh belts felt coarse.