The 8 Best Running Belts to Buy in 2018

One of the most popular running belts on the market, the Flipbelt Zipper Running Belt, is a continuous loop of material, so it does away with fasteners that can irritate and chafe you. With its sleek, straightforward design, the belt also has a continuous main compartment, featuring four openings in which you can tuck your essentials and get easy access. You simply pull it on and wear it wherever it feels most comfortable on your waist. Once in place, the FlipBelt doesn't move, jiggle, bounce, or chafe, and you could easily forget it's even there.

Available in five sizes from 18 inches to 38 inches, it stretches to accommodate most body types. The micro-poly and Lycra material has a breathable, lightweight feel and is machine washable, so you can throw it right in the laundry with the rest of your running clothes. The FlipBelt is available in a wide range of colors, and has some reflectivity to help you remain visible in low light conditions. There are many imitators of their loop design, but FlipBelt was the original and it remains the best of its kind.​

A leader in the running belt market for years, SPIbelt continues to put out high-quality, high-performance running belts at reasonable prices. The SPIbelt may look small, but this sleek belt expands and can securely hold a cell phone, keys, up to five energy gel packs, and other small personal items. The Performance series model features an increased pocket size, so it can hold large phones. It also has a weather-resistant zipper to keep valuables dry while on the run. The SPIbelt does not bounce, ride or shift while running or doing other activities. It's adjustable, so it can fit waists 24 to 52 inches.

The popular Gear Beast Dual Pocket Running Belt is extremely comfortable, roomy, and has many of the same features of higher-priced running belts, making it an excellent value for the money. The fully adjustable two-pocket hip pack has plenty of room for all your essentials and fits all cell phones, even larger models. With a comfortable, soft elastic waist, the belt doesn’t bounce once in place, reducing the risk of chafing. The rear headphone access makes it easy to plug in and manage your earbuds. Another cool feature is the elastic accessory holsters, which can be used for quick access to items like gels or lip balm. If you aren't sure if a running belt would work for your routine, we suggest starting with this option.

With six elastic slots to hold sports gels, the Fitletic Ultimate Race Belt is perfect for long distance races and runs. The adjustable belt doesn’t ride up or chafe, so you won’t feel uncomfortable or sore in the later miles. It also features a zippered, stretchy, and sturdy neoprene pouch and an inner pocket to stash your phone, credit cards, cash, and other essentials. You can use the toggles to attach your race number, so you don’t have to deal with the hassle of safety pins on race day. If you need more storage space or want to attach water bottles, you can purchase some of Fitletic’s add-on accessories.

One of the most common items that runners stash in their running belts is their cell phone, so it’s important that a belt can comfortably fit your phone, even if it’s one of the bigger models. The Sporteer Kinetic K1 Sport Belt was specifically designed to fit large phones and cases, and gives full access to your phone screen through its touch-sensitive window. It also features a lightweight, bounce-free design and a soft, sweat-resistant mesh/foam backing that allows for a comfortable fit. While this belt is made for phones, there’s also extra space in the internal pockets to carry ID, sport gels, keys, cash, and other small items.

If you just don’t like the look or feel of a belt around your waist while you’re running, the Running Buddy Belt is an excellent alternative for stashing all your essentials on the run. With its pouch design, it can be easily attached to any waist-band, using a series of strong magnets to hold it perfectly in place. The spacious inner and outer pockets are made of a dri-fit material, so your valuables are safe from sweat and rain. Another handy feature is the side zipper headphone port, which allows for easy access when using wired headphones.

The neoprene Nathan 5K running belt is so light, you’ll forget you’re even wearing it. The large zippered pocket is big enough for your smartphone, while a smaller one is perfect for storing cash and other essentials. With its reflective features, you’ll be easy to spot in low-light conditions. It also comes in several different fun colors, so you can pick the one that best suits your style.

The ultra-comfortable Amphipod AirFlow Microstretch Belt is sleek and light enough to wear when racing, but still stretchy enough to fit all your race day essentials. The belt’s thin mesh allows the air to circulate, so you won’t be sweating underneath it. The comfort-stretch belt is adjustable and, with its snug fit, it truly lives up to its “no bounce” claim.