A running belt or waist pack is a handy way to carry the kit you need with you as you run. If you don't like wearing a running pack on your back, or only need to bring a few items, then a running belt could be the perfect solution.
What does a running belt do?
Running belts provide a means to comfortably carry your valuables and nutrition as you run. A good waist pack will offer plenty of storage with different sized pockets to stash items such as keys, money, a phone, and some gels or bars.
Some run belts will also have capacity to stash a run jacket and carry water, such as holders to fit small water bottles that you can fill with energy drink to stay hydrated on the go. You might also choose to run with a waist pack if you like to carry your phone with you on your run for navigation or safety and your run shorts don't have suitable a pocket to secure it.
Running belt features
Pockets: The main feature in a running waist belt is the storage capacity it offers. Make sure your belt has plenty of room for what you need to carry. That could mean a pocket large enough for your smart phone, a smaller pocket with zip closure for your valuables and space to stash food for refuelling on the move.
Adjustability: Choose a belt that's either incredibly stretchy and sits tight enough to you to reduce bounce, or one with straps that have enough adjustability in them to get the required fit.
Materials: Look at run belts with breathable materials and panels with ventilation as it's likely you'll work up a sweat with the belt sitting so tight to the body.
Safety: Some waist packs will have reflective strips or even a whistle for attracting attention in an emergency attached to boost your safety as you run.
Best running belts reviewed
www.sportsshoes.com
Description
This soft, stretchy waist belt from Salomon fits a smartphone, keys, card and gels comfortably. It
Pros
- Comfortable
- Stretchy
- Lightweight
Cons
- No smaller compartment
www.sportsshoes.com
Description
A waist belt in this style allows you to carry all the essentials comfortably and unobtrusively
Pros
- Simple
- Plenty of pockets
- Pole loops
www.wiggle.co.uk
Description
This larger capacity waist pack carries race day essentials without the weight or constriction of
Pros
- Durable
- Well padded and comfy
Cons
- Bounces when fully loaded
www.wiggle.co.uk
Description
One of our go-to items of kit for daily training, running with the dog or supported races, this
Pros
- Super stretchy
- Comfy
- Easy access pockets
Cons
- Pricey
www.tradeinn.com
Description
Light, comfortable and easily adjustable, with good, variable storage. The Raidlight waist pack is
Pros
- Lightweight
- Adjustible
- Includes water flasks
Cons
- Some bounce when bottles full
mountain-kit.co.uk
Description
When you’re out for a shorter training run or a fully-supported race you’ll only need the minimum
Pros
- Large main compartment
- Secure fit
Description
It’s not a new concept but – geez – is it handy! Nathan's stylish The Hipster is like a belt but
Pros
- Stylish
- Four stetchy pockets
Top image: Andreas Amplatz Fotografie