Our Editors independently research, test, and rate what we feel are the best products. We use affiliate links and may receive a small commission on purchases.
A running belt can help you not only enjoy your run even more but can also make carrying essential items with you even easier.
In our buyers guide, we review the 5 best runners belts as well as go over how to choose the right one for you. You will get answers to FAQs about running belts and tips on how to use them.
We had our most experienced runners try several running belts and they chose the following as their 5 top rated running belts.
With a variety of features, materials and sizes one of these belts should be perfect for you.
Best Runners Belts
BRINGIT Running Hydration Belt | Sport2People Run & Relax Running Belt | Stashbandz Unisex Running Belt | |
---|---|---|---|
Hydration: | Two 10oz BPA-free water bottles | No | No |
Pockets: | 2 pockets | 2 pockets | 4 pockets |
Audio Compatible: | Yes, Hole for earphone cord | Yes, Hole for earphone cord | No |
Waterproof: | Yes | Yes | No |
Quick Answer: The 5 Best Rated Running Belts For 2024
- BRINGIT Running Hydration Belt
- Sport2People Run & Relax Running Belt
- Stashbandz Unisex Running Belt
- URPOWER Hydration Runners Belt
- Sport2People Runners Belt
We’ve reviewed the top rated running belts, followed by a comparison table and buying guide to help you decide on a beltthat will work best for you.
Running Belt Reviews
#1 BRINGIT Running Hydration Belt with Water Bottles
- (2) 10 oz. BPA-free water bottles included with the belt
- Adjusts from 25 inches to 40 inches
- Made from neoprene
- Quality zipper closure
- 100% satisfaction guarantee
The X Fit Factor Running Belt is our Editors Choice for the best running hydration belt and was built with storage in mind but in a way that keeps everything safe, secure, and easy to reach.
With plenty of space for your essential cards like ID, and credit or debit cards, as well as room for your keys, you can carry everything with you with ease.
The water bottles are also stored separately so you don’t have to worry about leakage or condensation reaching your other items.
The phone pocket is large enough to accommodate even the largest plus sized phones as they get bigger with each new wave of releases.
Your phone will also stay separated from other compartments so your phone won’t get scratched by other items you carry with you. The phone pocket has an earphone hole built-in so it is easy to listen to your favorite music while on your run.
This running hydration belt was easy to use, comfortable, and offered plenty of storage for even the most experienced runners that tried it out for us.
If you decide to try it, you will easily see why it is the best running water bottle belt.
#2 Sport2People Run & Relax Running Belt
- 2 expandable pockets
- Waterproof
- Adjustable waist from 29.5″ to 42.5″
- Slim design
The Run&Relax Running Belt from Sport2People makes running or exercising outdoors not only easier for you but safer for your valuables.
Made from a waterproof material, your keys, money, cards, ID, and even snacks will be protected from the elements, even if the weather tries its best to ruin your workout.
The separate phone pocket is just as weather resistant and makes handling your phone much easier since you can pull it out without everything else falling out.
This particular Sport2People Running Belt can accommodate even the biggest phones currently on the market including the iPhone X, the newest Samsung phones and more.
Our team of product testers found the reflective feature of this running waist belt very useful when going for evening or night jogs or runs. Being visible is important.
The hole for your earphones is useful when listening to music on your phone.
With very little bounce and a comfortable material, if you don’t need water bottles this is the best running belt on our list.
#3 Stashbandz Unisex Running Belt
- (4) 8″-wide pockets
- Available in sizes ranging from XS to XL
- Concealed zipper
- 6″ tall belt with vertical stretch up to 7″ to accommodate larger phones
This unisex Stashbandz Running Belt is not only suitable for both men and women, it is also suitable for keeping many items organized and within easy reach while running or at the gym.
You won’t have to fumble with zippers as each of the four pockets close with flaps that fold over securely.
The spandex fabric easily stretches to accommodate large phones.
You have four extra-large pockets to carry anything you might need on your run, including: snacks, your passport or other ID, money or a payment card, or other necessary items.
The fabric easily wicks away sweat to make it comfortable to wear even on long runs.
We found this particular running waist pack comfortable as it stayed secure with minimal bouncing. It didn’t chafe or become hot after a long run.
The fact that this running belt has multiple uses, including as a belt that can even hold an insulin pump, makes it highly versatile and that makes it one of the best running waist packs we tested.
#4 URPOWER Hydration Runners Belt
- (2) 6 oz. Water bottles included
- Made from high-quality neoprene
- Adjustable strap
- High-quality zipper, completely silent
If you find yourself on longer runs and hydration is a concern, this is the perfect hydration running belt for you. The iRainy Neoprene belt has not one, but two, 6 oz water bottles, both BPA-free and leakproof.
Not many hydration belts are able to accommodate so much without being uncomfortable but this one does.
This belt is made for the hardcore runner. It is even made to easily attach and remove a race number. It is lightweight, made with breathable and lightweight fabric, and is designed to be easily adjustable so it limits bouncing.
The reflective feature makes running in the dark or in inclement weather much safer.
Our testers found this an ideal belt not only for casual runners but those who participate in races and marathons and found it to be one of the best running hydration belts.
iRainy has designed this to be the best running water belt with the runner in mind and easily makes our top 5 list.
#5 Sport2People Runners Belt
- Adjustable waist from 27.5″ to 40.5″
- (2) expandable pockets
- Waterproof zipper
- 100% money back guarantee
Not only will this Sport2People Running Belt allow you to safely store your phone, including large phones such as the Note 8, as well as accessories you may need like earphones or a bluetooth device.
You will find that it easily adjusts so that everyone in the family can wear it. Men, women, as well as kids will find this running belt comfortable to wear even on long runs.
This is another running fanny pack by Sport2People, the second one on our top 5 running belt list, that has the reflective feature. By including safety features such as this, it is clear that this company makes runner’s safety a top priority.
Our product testers enjoyed the 2 large pockets that kept even the largest phones separated from the keys, cards, snacks, and more that they were able to carry with them and access easily.
With minimal bouncing and comfortable, cool fabric this is the best running fanny pack we tested that will fit the needs of many hardcore runners.
Running Belt Comparison Table
Runners Belt | Hydration | Pockets | Other | Rating | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
BRINGIT Running Hydration Belt | Two 10 ounce BPA-free water bottles | 2 pockets | No bounce design, pockets hold plus size phone. | 4.4 / 5.0 | |
Sport2People Run & Relax Running Belt | None | 2 pockets | Pockets hold plus size phones, audio compatible design | 4.7 / 5.0 | |
Stashbandz Unisex Running Belt | None | 4 pockets | Moisture wicking design with no chafing or bouncing | 4.5 / 5.0 | |
URPOWER Hydration Runners Belt | Two 6 ounce BPA-free water bottles | 2 pockets | Pockets hold plus size phones, reflectors for safety | 4.4 / 5.0 | |
Sport2People Runners Belt | None | 2 pockets | Audio compatible design, pockets hold plus size phones | 4.6 / 5.0 |
How to Choose the Best Running Belt
There are certain things that a runner must keep in mind when they are shopping for the running fanny pack.
Some runners will find certain features helpful and others either not necessary or cumbersome. Below is a list of common features of running belts.
Take a look and determine what is most important to you so you can choose the perfect one.
- Hydration
- Material
- Comfort
- Storage
- Quality
- FAQs about Running Belts
- Tips for Using a Runners Belt
- Getting the Most Out of Your Run
Hydration
Is hydration a problem? If you go on long runs and you need a regular intake of water to keep hydrated, then the ability to store water in your running belt will be a necessary feature for you.
Some running hydration belts will be able to hold more water. Keep in mind, though, that if you get a belt that can carry more water than you need, you will also be carrying more weight than necessary plus the extra bouncing around which can be annoying.
Materials
Most running waist packs will be made of synthetic materials. Some will be made of fabrics that are stretchier than others, some will be better at wicking away sweat, and some will not bounce as much as others.
You also need to decide what fabrics will be more comfortable for you personally. If you don’t like the feel of spandex, then a running belt made of neoprene may be better for you.
Comfort
If your running belt isn’t comfortable, you aren’t going to wear it no matter how convenient it will make your runs to have hydration, your phone, snacks, and valuables all at your disposal while running.
Take into consideration all factors that will contribute to the comfort of the running belt, including the material, the size, the weight, and more.
Storage
How much do you normally need to carry with you on a run? If you aren’t sure, make a mental inventory of the things you will take with you that would be useful and then the things that are absolute necessities.
How much storage does your running belt need to have? Can you get away with something smaller or do you need something with more capacity?
Quality
When you purchase something like a running belt, you want to make sure this product will last you quite a long time. Look at the quality of the materials, the stitching, the zippers if it utilizes these types of closures, and more.
The running belts reviewed here were chosen because of useful features, great performance, as well as quality.
FAQs about Running Belts
If you have never used a running belt before, you may have some questions about their use, the experience, and features. Here are some Frequently Asked Questions about running belts as well as answers that can help you in choosing the right one for you.
Q: Will my running belt bounce?
A: If the running belt is properly sized and adjusted, then it shouldn’t bounce, especially if it is designed correctly and made well. You should also wear it higher on your waist so that your core can support the weight of the belt instead of your hips.
If you keep size, adjustment, design, material, and quality all in mind, then your belt will fit perfectly and you won’t have a problem with bounce.
Q: How comfortable is a running belt?
A: The number one complaint that most runners have when wearing a running belt is that it is either itchy or sweaty. If you choose the right material, this won’t be an issue for you. Some people find that spandex is more comfortable than neoprene and some vice versa.
Look for a synthetic fabric that is breathable or that wicks sweat away from your body for the most comfortable fit.
Q: How often do I have to adjust my running belt?
A: A good running belt won’t have to be adjusted once you find the proper fit. Look at the sizing on the belt. Some will fit a large range of sizes for both men and women and others come in small, medium, etc. And you will have to find the one that will fit your size the best.
Q: How much room is available for storage?
A: Each running belt will be able to accommodate different amounts of items as well as different sizes of items. If you need to carry very little, make sure you get a belt that doesn’t have very many pockets.
Larger belts usually have multiple pockets to separate items. Running belts with phone pockets will have limits on the phone size so be sure to measure your phone. The running belts on our list can all carry the latest larger phones on the market.
Q: Do I need a hydration belt?
A: The inclusion of water storage in your running belt is completely up to you. If you go on short walks or runs you may not feel it necessary. However, those that run often or run in warm weather may consider it a necessity.
Runners competing in races should always consult the rules of the race to make sure hydration belts are allowed.
Tips for Using a Runners Belt
When first starting to use a running belt, you may find it cumbersome to adjust to, or you may need some tips on shopping for the perfect one. The following 5 tips will get you well on your way to a better run.
Tip #1: Don’t Just Use It for Water
Good hydration isn’t the only thing that a runner needs to worry about while running, especially on a longer outing. You also need fuel in the form of protein.
Store some trail mix, a protein bar, or your other favorite fuel in your running belt to help you get the most out of your exercise routine.
Tip #2: Wear it Higher on Your Waist
By wearing your running belt higher on your body, more around your core than your hips, you prevent bouncing. This not only protects the valuables inside the belt but it can also make for a more comfortable running experience for you.
Tip #3: Add Extra Storage if Needed
Many running belts will allow you to add extra storage to them. By adding a fanny pack on the outside of it, or a water bottle holder clipped onto the outside of it if your belt Isn’t already equipped with hydration capacity, you can have enough with you to extend your run time.
Tip #4: Make Sure You Get the Right Size
If your running belt isn’t the right size, you aren’t going to be comfortable and the items inside the belt may even be at risk of damage. No one wants that. Make sure that before you make your purchase, you are getting the right size for your waist.
Tip #5: Shop for the Right Features
There’s nothing like finding out a week after you start using your running belt that you are missing a feature that would be really beneficial. Make sure that you look at available features and find a belt that matches what you will need.
You also don’t want to find a belt that has features you don’t need and are paying for either.
Getting the Most Out of Your Run
A runners belt can help you make the most out of your run by making it easier to carry essentials. If you have considered a belt in the past, now is the perfect time to choose one that has the right features, the right price, and has been tested by those who enjoy running just as much as you.
How We Researched
To come up with the top running belts, we researched a variety of sources for reviews such as Best Buy, Walmart, Target and Sears along with our own personal experience.
The authors consulted sources such as online magazines for research and reviews unbiased information.
By using Fakespot.com we tried to eliminate fake reviews and use only genuine ones.
With so many options available, the authors narrowed down the selections by using products they felt were the best value for the money.
The staff authors have a wide and varied background as fitness trainers, yoga instructors and runners. The authors have decades of experience and are eager to share their knowledge with readers.
In order to narrow down the options, we used personal experiences plus recommendations from other trainers and instructors.
Sources
I hope this guide was helpful for finding the best runners belt to fit your needs. If you want to comment or recommend a belt I didn’t include, please use my contact form to get in touch.
Have fun and enjoy your run!