Now what to do with all of these items while on your run? According to experts, you should never carry anything in your hands while running. And tucking them in a pocket means risking an important item falling out and shattering upon ground impact.
So, what's a runner to do? Enter carrying accessories. These waist packs, arm bands and fuel belts can hold anything from the necessities to the extras, while keeping your hands free and your form correct. We found an option for any kind of carrying you need to do.
FlipBelt
$28.99 - $43.99 1 of 9
This basic-looking belt actually does the job quite well. The belt is a single tubular compartment with four stretchable openings that allow you to slide your phone, key or ID into the belt. Flip the belt over (hence the name) for a more secure hold on your items. There's also a short strap and hook inside the belt to hold your key or an extra hair tie.
The company also offers another option with zippered openings for even more security and separately sold water bottles for carrying your own fuel.
We recommend the FlipBelt for flat items (like phones and IDs), as it's meant to lay flush against your waist. Rounder items will likely not fit snug in the belt.
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Find a race near youGriffin Technology LightRunner
$39.99 2 of 9
For those who lace up pre- or post-sun, the LightRunner armband will keep you both hands-free and visible. LED lights in the band can be set to three different flash patterns to increase your visibility in the dark.
The neoprene strap is soft and comfortable, forming to your arm shape and wicking away moisture on sweaty runs. The case is compatible with devices up to 4.7 inches, meaning those with an iPhone 6 Plus will need to look elsewhere.
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Find a race near youFuelBelt
$39.95 - 49.95 3 of 9
FuelBelt has long been a leader in the hydration accessory category—and for good reason. The company's waist packs can carry hydration bottles, nutrition and personal items, making for an all-inclusive option for your running necessities.
The adjustable belt can be customized to meet your waist size and there are options that include two, three and four bottles for your personal hydration preferences. A small zippered pocket also fits small personal items, so you don't have to stash those elsewhere.
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Find a race near youNathan VaporAir and VaporAiress
$100 4 of 9
This hydration pack offers a model for both men and women, with designs to fit their bodies for the highest comfort and efficiency. This model is the lightest in Nathan's Vapor series, because lighter is always better when it comes to running with something on your back.
The pack includes a two-liter bladder and five additional liters of storage space for packing extra layers or food. Over the shoulder load lifters keep the pack close to your body to decrease bouncing and increase comfort.
Product shown is the VaporAiress for women.
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Find a race near youSPIbelt
$19.99 - $44.99 5 of 9
This stretchy, yet strong belt is the perfect companion for long runs, speedwork and race day. The zippered compartment can stretch to hold a large phone, keys and an ID, but we recommend keeping it simple with fewer items. Even if you do stuff the pocket full to the brim, the belt stays bounce-free and super comfortable.
The company recently came out with belts for race day and hydration needs, proving they have the product for just about any kind of runner.
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Find a race near youThe Running Buddy
$13.99 - $49.99 6 of 9
This magnetic pocket fits over the waistband of your own shorts or pants, lying comfortably flat against your waist. Place your belongings in the pouch pocket and fold The Running Buddy over your waistband, attaching the front and back magnets through the material of your pants or shorts.
The inner pocket is water resistant, so you don't have to worry about getting caught in the rain, and there's a side zipper for access to your headphones.
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Find a race near youUltimate Direction Access 20
$44.95 7 of 9
The angled placement of this belt's semi-flexible cage helps you avoid the awkward in-and-out of your water bottle during a run. A triangular pocket fits anything from a phone to keys to gel packets, and the 20-ounce bottle features a leak-proof Kicker Valve for easier drinking.
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Find a race near youRoad ID Shoe Pouch ID
$19.99 8 of 9
For those who only need to carry light items, this pouch laces onto the top of your shoe and is ideal for a key, cash or gel packet. To keep you safe, the pouch offers a reflective strip and standard Road ID band with your personal information on it.
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