A phone at the waist
A waist pouch or running belt holds a phone at the middle of the body, where its weight is barely felt and it moves least. It leaves both arms free and carries more than an armband: keys, a card and a little cash as well as the phone. That makes it a favourite for longer runs, cycling, walking and the gym. Worn under a top, it also keeps a phone out of sight while travelling.
The kinds in this range
The pouches here today are made for sport, in light stretchy fabric that sits close to the body:
- Running belts are a narrow band of stretchy fabric, about 5 centimetres wide on the slimmest, that the phone and keys slip into.
- Waist bags are slim pouches on an adjustable strap with a buckle. Some give the waist size they fit, such as 60 to 110 centimetres, and take phones up to 7.5 inches, with a reflective stripe for dark evenings.
- Elastic waist packs come in sizes from small to extra large, like clothing, and have a separate phone pocket.
Some are made in fabric described as waterproof, which keeps off sweat and rain.
How to choose one
Fit round the waist
Measure round where the belt will sit, which is often the hips rather than the natural waist, and compare with the range a belt gives, or with the size chart for the elastic packs. A belt worn snug does not bounce. One worn loose rides up and turns as you run.
Phone size
Check the largest phone the pouch takes, and allow for the case. A large phone in a narrow running belt stretches the fabric and presses on the screen.
Getting to the phone
If you change tracks or check a map often, running armbands keep the screen in view. A waist pouch suits a phone you mostly leave alone, with Bluetooth earbuds doing the work.
Questions people ask about waist and belt pouches
Can I swim with a waterproof running belt?
No. Waterproof fabric keeps off sweat and rain, not a swim. Unless a pouch gives a depth rating, keep it out of the water and use one of the waterproof pouches instead.
Can I wear one under clothes?
Yes. The slim belts are made to sit flat under a top.
Which is better for running, a belt or an armband?
A belt carries more and moves less, so it suits long runs with keys and a card. An armband keeps the screen in sight, so it suits runners who check their pace or change tracks often.
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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