A running belt lets you bring necessities on a run without feeling like you’re actually carrying them. The best belts don’t bounce or cause discomfort, even with an assortment of phone, keys, waters, gels, and possibly other knick-knacks on board.
We’ve tested 51 different waist-worn options since 2018. And we recommend the Tune Belt SP2 as the best running belt for daily use. If you want a nonadjustable band that compresses against your waist, we like the Nathan Zipster Max Running Belt. The Nathan TrailMix Plus 3.0 Insulated Hydration Belt is the best running belt with water-bottle holders. For a budget option, consider the less spacious—but plenty secure—Dimok Running Belt Waist Pack.
Top pick
This easily adjustable running belt has lots of compartments, but it doesn’t take up too much space on your body, and it keeps belongings secure.
The Tune Belt SP2 has plenty of space to hold a large phone, and its secure zippered pocket keeps valuables safe and dry. The waistband (intended to fit waist sizes 18 to 48) is easy to adjust, and we didn’t experience any uncomfortable riding or chafing on long runs. It’s available only in black.
Top pick
This running belt has two zippered compartments and two hammock-style slits, so you can carry a lot of supplies without worrying about dangling tails.
If you’re looking for a continuous waistband belt with ample storage, the Nathan Zipster Max Running Belt has enough room for a phone, a balled-up nylon tote bag, and even a slim extra layer. Two stretchable side pockets give this belt lots of additional room. But note that the sides are made of a thin layer of mesh, so you don’t want to stash items that shouldn’t get overly wet. This belt is regularly available in two colors (black and blue) and sizes XXS through XL (inclusive of waist sizes 23 to 40).
Top pick
This belt has two water-bottle holders and enough room for a large phone, but the bottles sometimes fall out when you’re bending over.
If carrying water is a must for your runs, the Nathan TrailMix Plus 3.0 Insulated Hydration Belt, which comes with two 10-ounce insulated bottles, is your best choice. The belt itself is “one size fits most,” indicated to fit waist sizes 26 to 44, and it has enough space to store a large phone and other belongings. It also has bungees on the side that can securely hold small items. The bottle holsters, made of plastic, are not the most sturdy.
Budget pick
This minimalist belt can still hold a large phone and a few other tchotchkes. It’s the only one of our picks that comes in bright colors with a reflective strip.
The Dimok Running Belt Waist Pack has one long zippered storage area, but you can also carry a variety of small items outside of that main pocket, thanks to side elastic straps and a smaller pouch that fits most keys. It comes in a variety of colors and has a handy pull tab on the zipper. Note that it may hang loose on people with smaller waists (it’s meant to fit sizes 28 to 49).
