Running relaxes your mind, allows you to take in the great outdoors and helps you stay, or get, fit. So, it’s easy to see why so many people use it as their preferred mode of exercise. And of course, another way to add to your enjoyment is by listening to your favourite record or podcast, or tracking your progress from a running app.
However, carrying a phone on your run can be risky, and cumbersome for your form. Step up running armbands! These simple pieces of kit will act as a secure phone holder, so all you have to do is concentrate on making it back home. Whether you’re lugging an iPhone 6 or the latest Samsung, our buying guide and recommended products are here to help you find your fit.
Quick List - Top Running Armbands
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There are a few factors to consider when purchasing a running armband. Clearly, they need to fit your mobile, but this isn't the only aspect! In this section, we'll explain some other key features to keep an eye out for when shopping.
First and foremost, phone compatibility. The whole reason behind this purchase is to have a reliable accessory that will keep your phone secure while you’re active. If your armband fails to do this, it’s going to leave you frustrated and your phone in a worse condition than when you set off.
Before picking up an armband, all you'll need to do is check that your phone is compatible. The company will either state which specific phone models it can hold, or provide you with the measurements. If the latter is the case, you’ll need to find out the dimensions of your phone so that you can be sure it fits.
There are two ways your phone can be inserted into a running armband, either through a pocket, where you’ll slide your phone into a casing, or a mount attachment. Each has their pros and cons and it’s generally down to personal preference which you choose.
Pockets are generally a much safer option. They’re capable of shielding your phone from the elements (if stated by the brand) and they will protect your phone if it does fall. One the other hand, they can be more difficult to access mid-run, which can be annoying if you want to change track or check your progress.
Mounted armbands provide you with much easier access, as there is nothing between them and your screen. However, they’re nowhere near as protective, so your phone is more likely to suffer from scratches or smashes should anything happen.
If you’re trying to lose weight or bulk up, the shape of your arms might end up changing over time. That’s why running armbands will come with either an adjustable strap or an elastic fit. This ensures they are flexible enough to stay with you through all the stages of your journey.
Adjustable straps are often considered more comfortable as they can be easily altered, and therefore do not dig into the skin as much. They also have less of a profile and are more ventilated. The downside is that you’re relying on Velcro straps, which can wear out over time.
Elastic fits tend to come as pocket-style armbands. They work kind of like a compression armband, but with additional pockets for your phone and sometimes other items like your keys. They often keep your phone more secure, but you won’t be able to quickly access it.
We don’t mean to remind you, but the UK can be a little wet at the best of times. If you’re a dedicated athlete or committed to running outside rather than in the gym year-round, then you won't want to let a bit of bad weather stop you.
The rain (and any sweat you work up, for that matter) can pose somewhat of a threat to your phone’s electronics, so due to this, it is worth looking for a water-resistant armband. As well as protecting your phone, these materials will also have the advantage of drying on the line nice and quickly.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Armpocket X | ![]() | An Armband That Has Everything | |
2 | VUP Running Phone Armband | ![]() | A Sleek and Stylish Mounted Armband | |
3 | E-Tronic Phone Armband Sleeve | ![]() | Match Your Running Armband to Your Workout Style | |
4 | Ronhill Large Phone Armband Pocket | ![]() | Keep Your Only Running Essential Secure and Close to You | |
5 | Quad Lock Run Kit for iPhone | ![]() | Probably the Most Secure Mounting System on the Market | |
6 | RevereSport Universal Exercise Armband | ![]() | You'll Never Need to Readjust Mid-Jog Again | |
7 | Yonzone Running Armband Phone Holder | ![]() | For Those Who Are Focused on Reaching a Flow State | |
8 | Nike Lean Armbands | ![]() | A Well-Made Armband With Additional Safety Features | |
9 | Yolispa Wristband Phone Holder | ![]() | An Innovative Design Allows for 360-Degree Rotation of Your Phone | |
10 | RevereSport Waterproof Armband for iPhone 11 | ![]() | A Premium Armband for iPhone 11 Fans |
Armpocket is a company that focuses all their energy on producing running armbands, so as you can expect, they're pretty exceptional at it. Their products have a padded mesh backing with sweat-wicking material, so it will always be comfortable and fresh behind there.
The smooth strap has plenty of tiny ventilation holes as well as small pockets for keys, a card or a little change. On top of this, it's water-resistant so it can stick by you no matter the weather. It not as cheap as some, but the likelihood is that your phone wasn't either, so it's probably worth forking out a little more to keep it extra safe!
This elasticated and stretchy armband fits arms from 12.5 - 38 cm, which means, statistically, it comfortably fits most average Joes or Janes out there. The mounted design again uses a 360-degree rotational phone holder, making it perfect if you're always changing tracks or checking your progress while you're out and about.
We actually think this is quite stylish compared to the other models available, with its simple black design and web style strapping that goes around the phone. Plus, it's completely machine washable, so you've no excuse to slack off.
We're pretty sure this compression pocket sleeve case from E-Tronic will happily home even the largest of phones, or maybe even a small tablet! It has an elastic fit with a slimline design that's secure and completely flexible, so you should be comfortable no matter the size of your arms.
This band comes in a variety of different colourways – we've gone with the classic black here, but we also loved the fluorescent yellow which is great for added safety if you're running in the dark.
This armband from Ronhill helps you keep the only essential you need when running close to you. It has a simple slide-in envelope style pocket, and the large screen cover makes sure you can change your tunes whenever you need that little burst of energy.
The product is designed for larger phones, and will therefore comfortably fit the latest iPhone and Samsung models. There'll likely be a little room to spare, so you'll be able to leave the case on when sliding it in which is nice.
This offering from Quad Lock uses a mounting system to connect the phone, which in turn provides a lower profile against the skin to reduce sweating. Additionally, the kit has a dual-stage locking system so you can be sure your phone will stay put no matter how bumpy the road gets.
While the dual-stage locking may sound techy, that's not the case as it uses a simple twist and lock mechanism to attach the phone. Yes, it's a little pricey, but if you're keen on a mounting armband, this is probably the most option available on the market at the moment.
Our first elastic fit running armband is secure and capable of accommodating phones that are up to 16 cm in size. The product comes in five different sizes which go from 17 - 48 cm, so be sure to check the sizing charts provided before purchasing.
The elastic fit ensures you never have to worry about readjusting when you're mid-jog again. Additionally, RevereSport is so sure of their product's reliability that they offer a lifetime warranty.
If you're more interested in reaching a flow state when you're running, then you'll have absolutely no intention of checking your phone. If that's the case (no pun intended) you could pick up this solid and secure running armband. It's made from materials that are water-resistant, durable and lightweight.
This band has one of the largest sizes on our ranking, so it's worth checking out if you're the owner of a large-screened device. Our only qualm is that it may get a bit sweaty under there, so you'll need to keep on top of washing or airing it out.
Use this armband to secure your smartphone to you whilst you're working out. It's capable of fitting mobiles up to 15 cm in height, and has a reliable Velcro strap. The classic Nike logo is also a reflective strip, which is handy should you be out running later in the evenings.
We do wish that the company would specify the measurements that the strap is capable of accommodating, though. Reviewers also think that the pocket size could have been make just a little bigger, as you'll probably have to remove your phone from its case to be able to fit it in.
Who said we always need to keep our phone strapped to our upper arm? Yolispa turns the running armband on its head with this wristband design. It isn't the only part getting spun around either, as the mount allows for 360-degree rotation of your phone.
We find that the sizing is somewhat on the small side, however, so you'll want to measure your wrists before you go ahead and purchase. Plus, the weight is going to feel strange and slightly unbalanced initially, so it's a product that will take a little getting used to.
This premium sports armband from RevereSports has headphone access and key storage, and will even let you use facial recognition without ever having to take it out of the case. The material has a waterproof coating so you can rest assured that no water will run into your phone.
The downside is that this armband is for a very specific type of phone – strictly the iPhone 11 or its variants – which isn't ideal as you'll need to upgrade it if you decide to change your phone.
Getting serious about your time on the pavement or out on the trails? Don't let annoyances like flyaway hair, losing your keys or running out of water stop you, check out our related articles instead!
Whether you're fretting about the first jog on your running journey or tackling your next marathon, with our recommendations you'll never have the additional worry of your phone's security. We're sure if you give the different styles and features some thought, you'll be able to pick up your ideal purchase.
Author: Lewis Clark
No. 1: Armpocket|X
No. 2: VUP |Running Phone Armband
No. 3: E-Tronic|Phone Armband Sleeve
No. 4: Ronhill|Large Phone Armband Pocket
No. 5: Quad Lock|Run Kit for iPhone
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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