The Best Running Belts of 2024

A running belt is a useful hands-free accessory that allows you to carry your essential belongings while running. Belts offer the convenience of extra storage for your phone or small items such as keys, gels, water bottles, and personal cards without the bulk of a hydration vest. Their sleek, low-profile fit helps to minimise bounce for a distraction-free run. Although not everyone needs a running belt, if you want to elevate your running experience or run for longer distances, a running belt is a beneficial tool to have in your arsenal.

When selecting a running belt, a crucial aspect is finding the right fit to ensure longer-lasting comfort while carrying all the essentials you need for your run. Accommodating diverse body shapes, running belts come in various shapes and sizes, ranging from small to extra-large, allowing you to customise the right fit that works for you. When choosing a running belt, look for one with adjustable elastic or velcro straps for a snug and comfortable fit around your waist to avoid chafing.

In addition to fit, your choice of a running belt also depends on what you intend to carry during your runs. Some belts feature a slim, lightweight design, offering less storage, while others come in roomier options for holding water bottles, nutrition, and other running essentials.

This crowd favourite has been chosen year after year as the most popular running belt on the market. The Naked Running Band features a proprietary Exopower four-way stretch mesh that is lightweight, strong, and breathable for a bounce-free running experience that quickly removes sweat. With three large pockets surrounding the body, there is plenty of storage for a Soft Flask (or two), a phone, gels, a headlamp, and more. And with 12 different sizes available, it's easy to find the perfect fit. Dual bungees on the front can secure a race bib, while elastic loops on the back can store trekking poles or a light jacket. The SL model of this belt features a streamlined version designed for shorter-distance runners, triathletes, and fitness enthusiasts. Lighter and smaller, the Naked SL is more comfortable and convenient to wear during intense physical activities.

The Salomon Pulse Belt offers a comfortable hands-free storage solution for the road or trail runner. This running belt's comfortable stretch fabric sits securely around your waist to eliminate unwanted bouncing or chafing. The rear pocket is capable of holding a Soft Flask up to 500 ml (not included), while a zippered front pocket secures sensitive items such as your phone, ID, and keys. As an added benefit, elastic side straps with silicone grip can be used to quickly stow a light jacket or trekking poles.

The Salomon S/Lab Belt stands out as an ultra-lightweight hydration belt made for peak performance on race days. This belt features a snug, bounce-free fit with convenient access to fluids and is compatible with 500 ml flasks (sold separately). With a secure zipped pocket, a rear mesh pocket, and two lateral pockets, there is ample storage for your race-day essentials. For a race-ready belt, the Salomon S/Lab is the perfect go-to option.

The Ultimate Direction Race Belt 6.0 features a race-ready design with a single bottle for efficient storage and hydration on the run. This belt can be worn on the road or trail, and its updated fit system lets you easily secure the belt around your waist, helping prevent any unwanted bouncing. For hydration, a single Body Bottle™ III sits in the rear holster to supply enough hydration for 1-1.5 hours on the trails, or to get you to your next aid station on race day. The mesh construction provides sufficient breathability to keep you cool and dry, while the pockets offer ample space for a large phone, soft bottle, or other important on-the-run essentials.

On race day only the essentials are important, and the Nathan Swift Plus Belt is all about race day. This belt includes a single 10 oz flask for convenient hydration as well as a single zippered pocket for a phone, gels, and keys if necessary. Added functionality comes in the form of the adjustable size, which can be modified to fit most runners.

With an adjustable band to accommodate a wide range of runners at a budget-friendly price point, the SPIbelt is the most convenient way to carry your running essentials. This belt features a low-profile pocket that expands to secure your phone, gels, and other items. The elastic band fits snugly around the waist, while the adjustable buckle allows for a personalised, comfortable fit that is accommodating for plus sizes as well.