Carry your phone, keys and gels without being weighed down

ocus on nailing your PB and less on fussing with your possessions as you head out on your runs.

When you’re pounding the pavements, you need to get creative to be able to store all the essentials with you. From your phone and keys, to energy gels to keep you fuelled along the way, running belts are a handy solution to keep your belongings secured hands-free and allow you to focus on the miles at hand.

A practical piece of running equipment, a running belt will save you from holding your phone or water bottle when on the move. For the best running technique, your arms serve to enhance your strides so having a running belt frees them up and allows you to focus on the movement of your legs and arms to propel forwards. They will safely affix your belongings to your waist instead of your prized possessions falling out of your pockets.

Ideal for training, a first time 10km park run, a competitive marathon attempt, or even a 100km+ ultra marathon, the humble running belt will quickly become the arsenal of energy and mentality boosting tricks you can’t do without - so make sure you’ve got the right one to carry you over the finish line.

There are a few things to look out for when choosing your running belt, including the following:

Here we’ve rounded up the best running belts…

Never leave the essentials behind with Osprey’s running belt. The US brand, which has seen increasing popularity here in the UK, has created a super practical design to make your run as smooth and comfortable as possible.

A smart pocket with padded mesh straps, simply clip around your waist using the quick adjust ErgoPull hip belt and have easy access to your belongings while on the move.

Pop your phone, keys and gels inside this nifty belt and be well on your way. With two expandable pockets, it’s roomier than it looks and can be zipped up to keep things secure and stable while on the go.

It’s made from the all-new Reflect360 material so will keep you visible in low light conditions and is water resistant. There’s a useful headphone outlet to feed your wire through when you’re listening to your favourite tracks.

Take the weight off your shoulders and out of your hands when running with this fluorescent lime belt to wrap around your waist (for the colourphobes, it also is available in black).

Water-resistant and bounce-free, take the necessities with you including your phone, keys, any sports gels, and zip safely shut in the front compartment. The adjustable buckle fastening means that the one size fits most.

Get the miles in with Gymshark’s running belt, made from a light and super stretchy material to ensure the ultimate comfort. Adjust the elasticated waist to fit you, and fill the central zip pocket with your essentials, including your iPhone and house keys. The slimline design also features a reflective trim to keep you visible in low-level conditions.

Go hands-free on your run with this super slick and compact running belt. It neatly packs away your smartphone and features a touchscreen-friendly mesh pocket to allow easy access so you to stay connected, check maps if you need and tap to shop.

There’s also extra room for your cards and gels, and an internal key loop to keep your keys secure and bounce-free. Choose from grey, black or indigo, all with reflective detailing.

Whether a sprint around the park or jog through town, wear this hip belt for a hassle-free run. Simply clip on and off and use the small, expandable pocket for the essentials. With the contoured, lightweight design, you’ll barely notice it’s there. All black, with a silver reflective detail, not only look like a pro, but it will help keep you visible and safe when you’re racking up the miles after dark.

Add a splash of colour to your running gear with this funky running belt from Adidas in collaboration with Finland’s Marimekko design studio. The eye-catching print boasts eco-credentials as it’s made from recycled materials. There is also an adjustable waist strap to fit most sizes. The padded pocket will protect all your belongings including your phone whilst on the move.

This will be your ultimate running companion, whether you’re at beginner, advanced or intermediate level. The cushioned belt has a large pocket to store away your phone, keys, gels etc, as well as a separate holder for the lightweight water bottle which is included, so you can keep hydrated during your excursion. A snug fit with its adjustable buckle fastener, enjoy a streamlined run with minimal movement from the belt.

Amazon’s own lifestyle brand Eono has created a super practical, ultra-light running belt to allow freedom of movement while running with your belongings at your waist. With two functional zipped pockets and a slim fixed buckle, pop the essentials in and get on the move. The material is stretchy and breathable providing the ideal amount of comfort and is available in a variety of colours. All water-resistant.

Carry snack bars, drink and maybe even the kitchen sink on your running adventures thanks to Kiprun’s expansive yet high-performance belt.

Available in six different sizes according to your waist circumference, you can choose the best fit for you and run without the stress of holding your belongings. The belt holds two 250ml flasks and up to six gels so you can stay hydrated, and is easily adjustable with a drawstring fastener. A top-rated choice on Decathlon.