Running Belt Vs. Armband

Whether you’re running for fun or in a marathon, you must have your phone with you. On the street or the track, you never know what will come your way. Your phone and other things such as keys and credit cards can come in handy in an emergency.

Is a running belt or armband better? The running belt and armbands serve the same purpose; to carry your essentials like phones, cards, etc. The best one will depend on your preference or what you need. For example, if you want lighter gear, the armband is best for you.

You can use this post as a guide in choosing between a running belt and an armband. If you do happen to decide which you prefer, we will list down a couple of the best products of each.

Running Belt VS. Armband

When you are out running, no one wants to be burdened down by a bunch of stuff. However, it is uncommon that you can go for a run without bringing something with you.

It may be, at the very least, car keys, and you might have a phone for safety reasons. Also, a packet of Gu or a little snack to get you through the final few kilometers on the route on long runs.

We have been content to have our keys in our hands and leave the rest in the car. But, to be honest, we enjoy having our hands free.

We have tried two different options, and you may have as well. Both provide a way to carry the minimal necessities while remaining hands-free and not weighing you down. Both have advantages and disadvantages.

Function

An armband, also known as a runner’s cell phone holder, is a brand that is tied to your arm. It allows you to listen to music while keeping your smartphone within sight, and it allows you to carry your phone without having to worry about it being damaged.

When most individuals go to the gym, jog, or ride their bikes, they wear arm straps. Waterproof bracelets are also available for swimmers and surfers. If you want to protect your phone from sweat and rain while running, you can use them.

Running belts are similar to armbands, and all you have to do is wear them around your waist. In terms of function, which is better: a running belt or an armband?

The running belt, of course, is the answer. Aside from what has already been stated, a running belt provides the best storage space or pockets for your possessions.

When jogging, it allows you to keep your wallet, credit cards, energy bars, and smartphone close at hand.

It is why an excellent travel belt for hiking, trekking, or any vacation is a running belt.

Hydration

When choosing between an armband and a running belt, consider if you will be carrying water bottles or fuel. If you answered yes, you would probably want to use a running belt for this. A hydration running belt, to be precise.

The belt style allows you to carry 1-2 eight-ounce water bottles with you when training. Some jogging belts have loops for carrying extra energy gels and protein bars.

Furthermore, most running belts include interior compartments for storing other training necessities such as your wallet, keys, and sunglasses.

Do not worry if you do not need to carry everything. You may also use a jogging belt that has just enough room for your phone.

Space To Carry Essentials

Armbands and running belts are both terrific options if all you want to carry is your phone. Your phone is essential, especially if you are taking a new route.

But before you buy either, be sure it will work with the phone you wish to use. It is because many brands do not offer items that can accommodate larger, plus-sized phones.

When looking for a belt, be sure to consider the size of the belt and whether it will fit your phone.

Waterproof Ability

The majority of running belts are just water-resistant, and it means they will not protect your phone or other devices from fluids such as sweat, light rain, or humidity.

If you plan on doing more water-intensive sports like windsurfing or kayaking, make sure you get something entirely waterproof. A waterproof armband should be your first choice for this.

Waterproof armbands will have a watertight sealing mechanism. They are smaller and designed to carry only your phone, preventing you from having to execute the infamous phone-in-a-bowl-of-rice trick.

Time You Will Be Using Your Phone

It is one thing to carry your phone while exercising, but it is quite another to use it. A running belt might be an excellent choice if you plan on pressing play and letting it alone.

On the other hand, an armband might be the way to go if you frequently use your phone. Look for an armband with a clear protective cover.

A clear protective cover will allow you to touch, tap, and control your phone without having to unzip the case. If you do not have wireless headphones, check if your armband has a port to plug them in.

The Activity You Will Be Doing

Your choice of armband vs. running belt may also be influenced by the types of workouts and routines you conduct. Lifting weights, cycling, and aerobics are some of the exercises that can’t be adequately done with extra baggage around your waist.

In those situations, a lightweight phone band worn on your arm may be best, and it will not obstruct your workout while allowing you to keep your phone close at hand.

However, a hydration belt is a better alternative if you train for a 5K or frequently run lengthy distances. Water bottles, fuel packs, and any other goods you might need. You can bring your sunglasses, sunscreen, and wallet, which you can all carry in this manner.

Do You Need A Specific Item For Your Run?

A running belt is a good option if you want training gear more tailored to your specific demands. You can easily add accessories like a sunglasses case, an extra water bottle, or a separate phone holder. Bringing your essentials will make sure you’re ready for your workout.

Armbands, on the other hand, are primarily intended to be worn on your arm. As a result, there may not be many alternatives for customization.

Running Belt And Running Armband: Advantage And Disadvantages

Running Belt

The benefits are self-evident! Imagine being able to take all of your things on your run, hike, or workout with you. Bring your gel packs, ID, phone, and other valuables with you so that they are all within easy reach.

Furthermore, being hands-free allows you to concentrate on your run or workout. You could try to find water along the route and make do without your treasures.

But why would you when you can carry everything safely? These aren’t frills; they’re necessities for your health and well-being!

Above all, knowing that you have your phone and other basics with you provides you with the confidence you need. And we all know when you have high confidence, your performance will increase.

These belts, on the other hand, are hefty and bulky around the waist. Because you can bring more things with you, your runs will be heavier.

The expense would be another point of worry. The majority of these items are more expensive than armbands for jogging.

Also, most users reviewed that belts tend to bounce while running, and not everyone is willing to pay the price. Running belts can be expensive.

Running Armband

Runners or joggers are currently obsessed with shooting selfies of their runs or chatting with their phones. It will enable you to interact with your phone more efficiently.

You can effortlessly tap away on your phone without having to fuss with taking it out and putting it back.

It gets the job done. You can run hands-free while also carrying a phone, keys, and an access card. Because the weight is on your upper arm and does not move much, having it on one side does not feel taxing. It is also reasonably priced, at around $10.

However, armbands frequently fail to accommodate phones of all sizes comfortably in pockets. Before buying a wristband, double-check the size of the screen window and the maximum phone height it can support.

Armbands limit what you can carry because your arm can only hold so much. If you want to bring extra items like water bottles or energy gels, you will find armbands restricting.

Securing anything to your arm with one hand is not as simple as securing a belt around your waist. These are tricky to put on, and it can be hard to attach and adjust some armbands, especially while you are on the go.

Should You Carry Water While Running?

If the weather is not too hot and your run is not longer than 30 to 45 minutes, you generally do not need to bring water. But make sure you are well-hydrated beforehand.

Carrying water is, however, a convenient thing to do. If it is hot outside and you sweat a lot or go for a longer run, you need water.

At best, dehydration will give you a headache and impair your run. At worst, it can lead to serious health problems, including heatstroke or convulsions.

Different people lose fluid at different rates. If you’re not sure how much water you should be drinking, weigh yourself before and after a run. After doing so, see how much difference there is. You’ve got 500ml of water to top-up if you’re 500g lighter after a run, for example.

However, drinking all of your fluids at once is not a wise idea. Overhydrating is detrimental to your health, and your body will likely reject most of the liquid rather than utilize it to hydrate you.

It’s a good idea to prolong your hydration over a longer length of time, and it will ensure you get the most out of the water you’re drinking.

For example, if you lose one liter of fluid during a 60-minute run, drink roughly 250ml every 15 minutes to stay hydrated.

Because the rate at which you lose fluid during activity varies, it’s worth reweighing yourself now and then. Remember to evaluate how you should alter your hydration.

The Best Running Belt And Armband

It’s a matter of personal preference whether you carry your essentials in a running belt or an armband. You may run a 5k marathon or for your health, but you will want the same things for your belt or armband.

Comfort, no chafing, no riding up, and no bounce are what you want from your belt and armband.

When runners took them for a run, all of the below matched this condition. However, other factors to consider when deciding on the best one are:

• your budget
• the type of running you’ll be doing
• the size of your phone.

Top Running Belts In The Market

Fitletic Hydra Hydration Belt

We recommend Fitletic’s Hydra belt for serious long-distance running. It has a bag for your phone, wallet, and keys, as well as two eight-ounce water bottles with specialized holsters (for a total of 16 ounces of water).

The belt has integrated bib toggles for race day and can be worn on the front or rear. The water bottles are pretty easy to get to, so you won’t waste any time taking a drink.

You can adjust the elastic waistband for a secure, chafe-free fit. Plus, the entire belt stays nice and still for a smooth run.

Aikendo Slim Running Belt

The Aikendo running belt is a fantastic companion for runners who don’t let poor weather keep them inside. It has a basic, attractive design with a vast zipped bag, and it’s constructed of stretchy, breathable Lycra that molds your body.

The pocket is lined with a waterproof TPU that protects your phone and other valuables from sweat and rain. It accommodates waist widths ranging from 28.7 to 41.3 inches thanks to an adjustable elastic strap and a robust buckle.

Camden Gear Hydration Belt

This Camden Gear water belt is a must-have for running enthusiasts and active marathon runners. With the Velcro strap, you may adjust it to a length of 43 inches. Many consumers appreciate how snug and light it is and how it isn’t at all bouncy.

Aside from that, it includes pockets large enough to hold even the big cell phones. Finally, it has two properly sized water bottles to keep you hydrated during your race.

Leading Running Armbands

TRIBE Water Resistant Cell Phone Armband

With this water-resistant phone armband from Tribe Fitness, you’ll never have to worry about quality. Regardless of how hard you work out, your phone will always stay put.

You’ll like having complete protection while still being able to use your phone’s touch screen and headphone jack.

You can obtain the perfect fit with the extra-plush adjustable elastic band. It can flex, twist, and bend without losing its shape.

The armband is composed of high-quality Polyurethane and has a Lycra and Neoprene combination for optimal comfort while keeping your phone safe.

Newppon 360° Rotatable Running Phone Armband

One of the most aggravating aspects of some phone armbands is the inability to see your screen correctly.

You cannot see who texted you or what time it is if it’s propped up on your arm in a set posture. The Newppon 360° rotational running phone armband, however, changes that.

You can see and operate your phone more efficiently. And you can also be able to keep your phone in its case with this armband.

It has a patch of non-slip silicone beads on the rear of the panel for further protection. You may never have to worry about accidental drops.

A hidden key holder, earphone cord management, and a perforated strap for maximum breathability are a few of the essential features.

Trianium Water Resistant Phone Armband

If you didn’t think that a phone armband could be “one size fits all,” think again. Trianium’s armband should suit all sorts of phones and their cases.

When it comes to your arm, this model can support biceps up to 14 inches in circumference. It has complete touchscreen capabilities. Using this armband, you can use your phone to activate a stopwatch, switch music, or answer a call.

When the phone is inside, however, it will not be able to read your fingerprint. With this armband, you’ll still get some extra benefits.

It is sweat-resistant and waterproof. It also contains a concealed compartment where you may keep your house key when working out.

Conclusion

To summarize, whether to wear a jogging belt or an armband is a personal choice. For the upcoming runs, a running belt provides more comfort, functionality, and mobility.

However, using a jogging belt to handle personal belongings and improve performance makes more sense. If you don’t want to carry any more weight, the armband is an option.