I Tried 9 Phone Holders for Running—Here Are My Honest Thoughts on Each One

The Flipbelt is a classic for a reason, and it ranks as one of Iwanicki’s favorite running belts for its no-bounce fit, multiple storage options, and ease of getting your phone in and out. Though belts like this one can be more challenging to get on and off (you have to step in and out of it), Iwanicki says they often last longer and are less likely to bounce or get stretched out than models that include some sort of adjusting mechanism that could break, slide, chafe, or stretch over time. Of course, there’s a downside to belts that aren’t adjustable—if you get the wrong size, you’re out of luck, and some runners may find themselves in between sizes. In my experience, though, the Flipbelt fit perfectly, and was so secure and bounce-free that I forgot it was there. And though it may look small, it has more storage than you’d think—the super stretchy fabric can hold just about anything you could ever need on the run in its multiple pockets.

Phone sizes supported: Fits nearly all phones

Sizes available: XXS-XXL

Colors: 14, including patterned and reflective options

I’ve tried many belts similar to the SPIbelt before—essentially a pouch on a buckled strap—and have always experienced either bouncing or riding up. So I was pleasantly surprised to find that the SPIbelt Dual Pocket Pro did neither. Though the belt itself looks tiny, each pocket stretches to hold a decent amount of volume, though larger phones may feel like a tight squeeze, and it may be challenging to retrieve one item out of a pocket without the rest of the items falling out. But overall, the SPIbelt is a great option if having that adjustable fit is important to you. Plus, SPIbelt offers a Belt Extender for larger waists.

Phone sizes supported: Fits all phone sizes

Sizes available: One size (for waist sizes from 25 to 47 inches)

Colors: 3, including patterned option

A challenge even greater than figuring out how to carry your phone on the run? Finding a comfortable, not-annoying way to store hydration, whether you’re out on the trails or in the midst of a marathon training plan. Arcteryx’s Norvan Belt has you covered for both, with dedicated pockets for your phone and a 500-milliliter soft flask, which comes with the belt. The Norvan is a great alternative to a vest, whether you find those uncomfortable or prefer bottle hydration to vest hydration. And unlike many other running belts made of thick fabric, the Norvan is made of light nylon for maximum breathability on hot, humid days.

Phone sizes supported: All phones

Size available: XS-XL

Colors: 2

While tucking a phone into your existing running apparel—whether a bra, a jacket, or a pair of shorts—is often the easiest option, it isn’t always an option that’s available. Enter the Koala Clip, which is made to clip onto the back of your bra (usually inside of the bra for better security and less bounce). If you’d prefer to clip it on the outside of your bra, or even onto your shorts or pants, you can do that, too—just know that you may experience some bounce without your bra holding it in place. Iwanicki points out that while we do now have bras with built-in phone storage, we’ve still got a ways to go in terms of size inclusivity in sports bras, so the Koala Clip allows runners to turn whatever sports bra works best for them into one that can store a phone. Pro tip: Opt for the Lux version for more color options, nicer fabric, and stronger magnets keeping the clip secure and bounce-free.

Phone sizes supported: All phones

Sizes available: M-XL (based on phone size)

Colors: 3

Find yourself wanting to read a text message or skip to the next song without taking out your phone? The plastic screen on the Nike Pocket Arm Band Plus allows for full navigation while your phone is still attached to your arm. Should you need to take your phone all the way out, the Nike band’s design makes that a quicker, less fussy experience than with many other bands.

Phone sizes supported: Most large smartphones

Sizes available: One size

Colors: 1

Even with armbands that supposedly support all phone sizes, getting larger phones to fit can sometimes be a squeeze, especially if you want to leave your case on. Tunebelt’s AB92 model has extra depth, so it can hold even big phones in big cases. Plus, it has everything else you want in an armband: Screen visibility, soft, comfortable fabric, and a secure, no-bounce fit. As a bonus, Tunebelt sells an Armband Extender to accommodate larger arms.

Phone sizes supported: Most phone sizes

Sizes available: One size (fits arms from nine to 16 inches)

Colors: 1

Going for a run in the morning and to a music festival in the afternoon? Janji’s Multipass Sling Bag is versatile enough to do both. Store your phone and whatever else you may need on or off the run in its ample outer or more secure inner pocket. For errands, travel days or other adventures, choose between wearing the belt as a fanny pack, or as a more stylish cross-body bag.

Phone sizes supported: All phones

Sizes available: One size (comes with adjustable strap)

Colors: 7, including patterned options

The velcro on some armbands that strap on can cause chafing and discomfort. This one, from Sprigs, slides on, and is made of performance fabric that feels soft on skin and stays in place. And for an armband, it has relatively easy phone access, as the phone sticks out slightly and is strapped in at the top (though, as always, getting the phone back in is harder than getting it out). A major bonus: You can throw the Sprigs into the washing machine between runs.

Phone sizes supported: All phones

Sizes available: M-XL

Colors: 1

Typically, running with your phone in your hand isn’t a great idea—there’s the risk of dropping it, plus, if you happen to trip and fall, your instinct may be to try and protect your phone rather than your body. One exception: If you already run with a handheld water bottle, you might as well get one that can also store your phone. The Nathan Speedview Plus is Iwanicki’s pick, with a grip-free carrying strap to keep your hand available and a transparent plastic pocket so you can use your phone without taking it out.

Phone sizes supported: Most phone sizes

Sizes available: One size

Colors: 1