For many of us, our smartphones have become an essential part of our fitness gear, whether we use them for running apps, music, or contacting others in an emergency.
But running with a phone isn’t always comfortable, particularly if it’s not well secured, and you can feel it bouncing with every step!
The answer is a good running phone holder – one designed to keep your device firmly in place, so you can focus on your training.
In this guide to the best phone holders for running, we’ve listed some of our favorite products on the market and the features that make them so comfortable to wear.
But before we get to our recommendations, let’s take a look at the things to consider before making your choice.
What to Look for in A Running Phone Holder
In this guide, we’ve listed 3 different kinds of holders – armbands (the most popular), a chest strap, and a belt that you simply slide up to your waist.
The type you choose will depend on personal preference, but we’ve mainly focused on armbands as these tend to be lightweight and make it easier to access your phone on-the-go.
Other things to think about include:
#1: Items you like to take on your runs
Some phone holders in our guide will hold JUST a phone, with no space for other items. This type of holder will obviously be the lightest in weight and sleekest in design.
But if you like to bring along other essentials like cards, a wallet, or gels, then you will either need to opt for a bulkier holder with extra pockets, or treat yourself to a good running vest, too.
#2: Screen accessibility
If you want to carry your phone for safety reasons but don’t actually need to see the screen, then a simple holder with a pocket is ideal.
But if you need to check data in an app, take calls, or control your playlist as you run, then you’ll need your phone’s screen to be fully accessible.
Some holders come with a touchscreen-sensitive window that allows for this, and others give direct access to the screen, with no protection. Keep in mind that this type of holder will leave your device open to the elements!
#3: Comfort
This, of course, is a priority. The holder shouldn’t pinch, chafe, or move around and should fit you snugly, without being too tight. It should also be made of a breathable fabric that won’t become itchy as you perspire.
All the best phone holders for running in our guide are highly rated for comfort – so much, in fact, that you’ll barely notice you’re wearing one!
The 9 best Phone Holders for Running in 2023
#1. Sprigs Phone Armband Sleeve
– Lightweight, machine washable, and suitable for all types of phones
– Best phone holders for running in warm weather
Available in a wide range of cool colors and designs, this simple armband fits snugly on your bicep and will stretch to fit any phone, with or without a case.
It’s easy to use – just pop your phone into the pouch, secure it in place with the Velcro closure, then pull the band up your arm.
It feels tight, but comfortably so, and there’s no bouncing at all. We also like the grip dots on the inside that prevent the band from sliding.
You’ll need to measure your bicep before buying, as there are 4 different sizes to choose from.
And there is no space in the pouch for anything besides your phone, so this won’t be ideal if you want to bring along gels, keys, etc.
Nevertheless, this armband is so breathable and comfortable it’s easy to forget you’re wearing it.
#2. E Tronic Edge Running Phone Holder
– Breathable, compatible with all smartphones, 100% water-resistant and sweat-proof
– Ideal for storing extra items too
If you don’t need access to your phone as you run, this stretchy and comfortable sleeve-style armband is another great choice.
Soft and breathable, it comes in 4 different sizes and a range of colors.
It’s a bit roomier than the Sprigs band, so you can take along extra items like keys and money, plus there are two handy openings for your headphone cord.
The reflective detailing helps increase your visibility when running in low light conditions, whilst the phone pouch is big enough to accommodate any model.
It has an easy-to-use zipper which we actually prefer to a Velcro closure as it makes your phone feel more secure.
#3. LifeProof LifeActive Armband With Quickmount
– Use in portrait or landscape mode, with click-and-go action
– Best choice if you need access to your phone during runs
If the idea of simply tucking your phone into an armband makes you nervous, then you’ll love the extra security provided by this unique model from Lifeproof.
There’s a little work involved in setting up and you’ll need to permanently attach an adapter to the back of your phone case.
We’d recommend buying a second case just for this purpose. Once installed, you simply clip your phone securely to the armband, where it stays safely in place.
There’s no storage space for anything else, and your phone screen is completely open to the elements.
But the entire band is very lightweight, and the adapter can be used with other Lifeproof products, including their car/bike mounts and belt clip.
#4. Athlé Reflective Vest with Phone Holder
– Highly reflective, fully adjustable, with extra storage space
– Best chest running phone holder
If an armband doesn’t appeal, then this is one of the best phone holders for running hands-free.
The shoulder straps and waist belt can both be adjusted for a custom fit, meaning this can be worn over anything from a vest to your running jacket.
It’s very lightweight, too, and holds your phone comfortably in place, without bouncing.
The pouch is big enough to hold any smartphone model and there’s plenty of extra space for your keys, wallet, or cards.
There’s also an opening for your headphones, so you can listen to your playlist as you train.
#5. Tribe Running Phone Holder
– Wide choice of colors, touch-sensitive screen cover, and an extra wide band
– Most affordable option
This is a great running phone holder for the price.
It features a water-resistant TPU screen cover that protects your phone but still allows you to use the touchscreen with ease.
The band is super-comfortable, made from a stretchy, moisture-wicking plush fabric that feels soft against your skin.
There are three different sizes to choose from – the manufacturers recommend sizing up if you use a thicker case – and two nylon buckle loops to accommodate most arm sizes.
You also get a headphone organizer to stop your cord from tangling and a handy built-in pocket for your key.
#6. Armpocket Mega i-40
– Made from recycled materials and weather-resistant, with three different strap sizes
– Best choice for versatility
This may be one of the pricier running phone holders in our guide but it has some great features that make it worth the investment.
For one thing, it’s roomy – big enough to hold your phone, key, wallet, gel, and more! The dual-locking zippers are easy to use and ensure everything is kept safe and sound.
You have full access to your screen and complete touch control, without removing it from the holder. There are also 3 audio ports for connection to any device.
This is a comfortable armband, too, with memory foam padding, a non-slip patterned backing, and a fully vented strap.
We also love that it can be worn 4 different ways – on your forearm, bicep, hand, or attached to your bike.
Our only (small) complaint is that all that extra storage space makes this one of the bulkiest armbands we tried.
#7. VUP Running Armband
– 360° rotation, breathable lycra, and dual buckle loops for a great fit
– Makes it easy to use touch ID and face ID on-the-go
The recent upgrade from 180° to 360° rotation makes this one of the best phone holders for running if you like to check the screen often.
Unlike the Lifeproof model that requires you to permanently attach an adapter to your case, this one features stretchy silicone straps that you simply pull over the edges of your phone.
It doesn’t obstruct any features of the phone or screen and works well with lots of different models, even able to accommodate a popsocket if you use one.
The comfortable armband feels soft against your skin, with an extra layer of fabric for sweat resistance.
There’s a cord holder to keep your earphones tangle-free, but no extra storage for anything other than a key.
#8. Flipbelt Classic Running Belt
– Unisex, fits XXS to extra large, with slide-in pockets
– Best alternative to an armband
If you don’t need access to your phone at all but just want to carry it as unobtrusively as possible, this lightweight, tubular band is the answer.
It is exceptionally sleek, with no buckles or straps, and has 4 roomy pockets for your phone and other running essentials.
Once you have everything you need, you simply turn the waist pouch belt over to close all the openings and keep your items in place.
The belt’s snug position against your body prevents any movement from your phone and makes it easy to forget you have it!
If you want a little more security, there’s also a zippered version, although this is slightly more cumbersome and has a Velcro closure.
There are lots of bright colors to choose from – some with reflective detailing – and the high-quality fabric holds its shape well, even after extended use. It’s also machine washable.
#9 . Tune Belt AB91 Cell Phone Armband Holder
– Durable, water-resistant, with a flap for excess cord
– Our top choice for a secure fit
The Tune Belt was probably the most snug fitting of all the armbands we tried.
The company offers a comprehensive Armband Fit Guide to ensure you get the perfect size for your particular phone and case, which is key to eliminating all movement as you run.
Access for the lightning cord or other connectors is provided, and the protective window is touch-sensitive, so you can view and control your screen on the go.
The moisture-wicking fabric is flexible enough to move with you and feels durable, with high-quality stitching.
There are no openings at the back, so you can feel confident on long runs that your device is well protected from perspiration.
The best Phone Holders for Running: Key Takeaways
Running with a phone is essential for many of us, so the holder you choose needs to be as secure and comfortable as possible.
Whether you’re looking for a minimalist style like the sleeve from Sprig or need screen access with an armband like the Tube Belt, we hope you’ve found a suitable option here in this guide.
Staying Warm on Winter Runs
Motivating yourself to run on cold days may be a struggle, but the right gear can make all the difference when temperatures plummet.
Check out our favorite running jackets, ear warmers, and gloves to keep you cozy throughout the winter months.
