When you’re on a run, all you want to be thinking about is putting one foot in front of the other - your phone should be the last thing on your mind.
Whether you’re worried you’re going to drop it or it’s distracting jangling around in your pocket, anything that’s putting you off pounding the pavement, track or trail needs to be nipped in the bud immediately. That’s why we’ve been searching high and low for the best phone holders available so you can go hands-free with no thought required.
Some leggings and shorts have pockets specifically designed for phones, although if you need to access your device quickly to see your route or change a song, then it’s not the most practical option. Then there are running belts, which offer ample space for all of the necessities yet can involve rummaging around until you find what you need, and armbands, that have easy phone access but little space for extras.
Chest harnesses, on the other hand, are our favourite, boasting a simple and convenient design meaning there’s little phone-searching-admin required, as well as extra pockets for the smaller valuables, reflective accents, and waterproof credentials.
From the market leader Freetrain to ASRV, who both offer a selection of chest rigs in multiple colourways, we’ve put together a range to suit every budget. Keep scrolling to find your future running companion.
Chest phone holders
Freetrain Hydro VR Vest
The market leader, Freetrain’s chest pack is one of the best in the business.
Crafted using a reflective material, it features a phone pouch that comes with an adaptor to ensure your device has a snug fit. There’s also a water bottle pocket with a bottle included, as well as extra pockets on the shoulders and back. The size is adjustable and fits anywhere from 28-inch to 52-inch chest, so it’s a design that will suit any discerning runner.
If it feels tight to begin with, don’t fret, because it’s designed to relax your body over two to three runs.
Buy now £25.00, Freetrain
ASRV 0634 Conditioning Chest Pack - Olive
Luxury sportswear brand ASRV designs minimalist pieces that allow the athlete to zone into their workout, and this chest rig is a case in point. With the choice of four colourways, this convenient bag has enough space to store all of the essentials and even has neoprene padding on all contact points so wearing it topless is just as comfortable. The back features reflective panelling for optimum visibility at night.
Buy now £135.00, ASRV
Runitude Running Phone Holder Vest
Perhaps the most lightweight on the market, Runitude’s patented design comes in at 159 grams, so you’ll probably forget you’re wearing it. With a waterproof outer lining, an anti-bounce lycra inner lining, a zip pull cord, and pockets for your key, card and cash, and car key, it’s an all-singing all-dancing chest pack that’s wallet-friendly, too.
Buy now £22.95, Amazon
Six Peaks Running Vest Phone Holder
With one large pocket designed for a smartphone and two shoulder pockets for the smaller valuables, you’ll have everything you need at easy reach when wearing Six Peaks running vest. Featuring an adjustable strap that will suit a range of sizes and reflective detailing for low-light conditions, it’s got all the features any runner needs.
Buy now £26.00, Greaves Sports
ZelaFit Running Phone Holder Vest
Using the brand’s patented no-bounce technology, ZelaFit’s harness will make sure your phone stays in place while you’re going to distance. With easy access, weather-ready credentials including a waterproof phone pouch as well as water-resistant neoprene fabric all over, it’s a lightweight and breathable option which drys quickly, leaving you able to focus on the exercise at hand.
Buy now £22.95, Amazon
Simket Running Phone Holder Vest
If you like to run after dark and visibility is a concern, Simket’s chest pack is the design for you. With a flashlight on the front, which is powered using rechargeable batteries, and reflective details on the back, you won’t be missed when you’re running at night. Weighing only 130 grams, it’s ultra-lightweight, adjustable, and comfortable - what more could you want?
Buy now £19.99, Amazon
Running belts
Osprey Duro Dyna Belt
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.
With 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.
Buy now £40.00, Osprey
Proviz Refelct360 Waist Belt
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.
Buy now £16.99, Proviz
Under Armour Flex Speedpocket Run Belt
Take the weight off your shoulders and out of your hands when running with this fluorescent-accented 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, sports gels, and zip safely shut in the front compartment. The adjustable buckle fastening means that one size fits most.
Buy now £18.90, Under Armour
Gymshark Running Belt
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.
Buy now £15.00, Gymshark
Lululemon Fast and Free Running Belt
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 pink, black or neon yellow, all with reflective detailing.
Buy now £35.00, Lululemon
Salomon Active Unisex Belt
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.
Buy now £28.00, Salomon
Flipbelt Classic Premium Running Belt
There is a reason why the Flipbelt is one of the most popular running belts on the market. When you first look at the product, you will be surprised to learn about all the hidden pockets that tuck your possessions away tightly and securely. It has a secure fit to your body without bounce but does not chafe thanks to the soft fabrication and the lack of any buckles.
Buy now £39.98, Amazon
Eono Running 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.
Buy now £8.49, Amazon
Armband Phone Holder
E-Tronic Armband Sleeve
Secure your phone in place on your arm with this sleeve-like holder that offers a lightweight and slim-fitting alternative to bulky phone storage. The material is comfortable and breathable, crafted specifically not to chafe or irritate your skin. The stretchy fabrication leaves enough space for all phone sizes as well as any other essential that you need while you are clocking in the miles. It is available in a range of colours and sizes.
Buy now £8.99, Amazon
Nike Lean Plus Neoprene Armband Phone Case
This classic armband takes a no-fuss, no-frills approach. It is designed to fit all phone sizes, even the XL models with a touchscreen window for ease. The product is made from a smooth neoprene fabrication that won’t rub or chafe and has a secure velcro fit.
Buy now £20.45, Amazon
Phone Running Armband
Taking the traditional running essential to the next level, this band has a 360-degree rotatable construction to make it easier than ever to be able to change the song, check maps or whatever else without needing to put a pause on your strides. The bands are made from rubber and so can fit phones of all sizes, while also leaving all the capabilities like FaceID, volume and more intact.
Buy now £10.99, Amazon
WEIQILE Running Armband Phone Holder
If you like to use running as a way to clear your head and get away from the constant screen time, you may be reluctant to actually bring your phone with you. However, for music, maps or security, it is essential.
This band will help you store all your running necessities like your keys, cards or whatever else in a secured pocket without the touchscreen window that may tempt you to constantly be checking your texts. It is also water-resistant and sweat-proof with a breathable construction.
Buy now £6.59, Amazon
