Carrying a phone on a run
Most runners take their phone: for music, for tracking the run, and to call someone if they need to. A pocket lets it bounce, and holding it gets tiring. A running armband or a waist pouch keeps it close, still and out of the way. This page gathers the shop's running armbands and waist and belt pouches.
Armband or waist pouch
- Armbands hold the phone on the upper arm, where you can glance at it or tap it mid-run. The armbands here are elastic, in sizes for phones up to 6.5 inches and up to 7.2 inches, and one has room for more than the phone.
- Waist pouches sit round the waist or hips, so the phone is out of sight and nothing moves on your arm. The pouches here include a waterproof running belt with room for money and keys, a stretchy waist pack, and a waist bag with a phone pocket.
A waist pouch suits longer runs, because it carries keys and a card as well. An armband suits shorter ones, where checking the screen matters more.
Getting the fit right
An armband that is too loose slides down the arm, and one that is too tight is uncomfortable after a few miles. Check the phone size the armband is made for, with your case on, and the length of the strap against your arm. A waist pouch should sit snug enough not to bounce: try a few strides before you set off. Take the phone out after a sweaty run, and wipe the armband or pouch and let it dry. Sweat and rain are the other thing to think about. A pouch sold as waterproof for running is made for rain and sweat; it is not a swimming pouch unless it says so. The guide to IP ratings explains what the ratings mean.
Questions people ask about phone accessories for runners
How loud should my music be when I run?
NHS hearing services advise no more than 60 per cent of the maximum volume, for no more than an hour at a time. Keep it low enough to hear traffic and people around you. The guide to earphones and earbuds explains more.
Can I use the touchscreen through an armband?
Some armbands have a clear window over the screen. Each product says whether it does.
What about the treadmill?
For a phone on a treadmill or a gym bike, see gym and treadmill phone holders.
How long does delivery take?
Delivery is included in every price and tracked to your door. Each product page says when it usually arrives.
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