Best phone holders, armbands, and belts for running in 2026

Your phone has plenty of potential uses mid-run, whether you’re recording your stats, blasting some music to give you extra momentum, or finding your way with the GPS, but it can often be a hassle to carry.

Thankfully, there’s a range of phone holders available that will help you reap the benefits of your running apps while tucking your phone out of the way so you can focus on your form.

So if you like the idea of strapping your phone on your arm for easy access, storing it on your chest to balance the weight, or keeping it completely out of sight in a running belt, we’ve got you covered with our picks of the best phone holders.

All picks have been chosen based on in-depth research and analysis of user reviews.

Best phone holders for running

1. Ronhill Running Phone Armband

• £14.95

This Ronhill running armband is a lightweight carrier designed to hold most smartphones securely while you’re active. Available in both S and L sizes, it also has an adjustable arm strap so you can tailor the fit.

The armband has a clear touch-screen window that allows you to view and operate your device without removing it from the holder.

The design includes headphone points at both the top and bottom of the pocket for flexible cable routing, and reflective trim to add a touch of visibility to low-light runs.

2. Gritin Running Armband for iPhone

• £9.99

Keep your hands free on your next run while keeping your phone close by with this armband from Gritin. Made from Lycra and neoprene, it’s purported to be super soft and skin-friendly, with a flexible strap that’s designed to adjust comfortably to your arm without bouncing or becoming a distraction.

Gritin says the sensitive screen cover won’t get in the way of shuffling your playlist or launching your running app, so you can start and stop your tracker without any issues.

There’s even a small slot so you can store your house key, and if you’re heading out in low light there’s also a reflective strip on the phone holder for added visibility.

3. Runitude Phone Holder Vest

• £23.99 (Europe only)

If you’d prefer a chest strap for holding your phone, this vest from Runitude will fit a wide range of phone styles and sizes.

A lightweight item at a claimed 159g, it’s made from a neoprene material and frictionless Lycra in order to boost breathability and feel like it’s barely there on your next outing.

There are also additional pockets for any extra items you may have on you, such as cash and keys, with room on the straps to attach a light if you want to head out after dark and still stay visible.

4. Kiprun Running Armband

• £8.99

This adjustable armband from Decathlon has a Velcro strap, which means you can adjust it to get the ideal fit for your arm.

Your touch screen should be easy to see thanks to the clear pane and the holder itself is available in a variety of colours that range from a simple and sleek black to something more colourful like the brand’s light green or quartz pink options.

5. FlipBelt Classic

• £32.50

Designed to sit on your hips without riding up or bouncing while you run, the FlipBelt is said to have plenty of room for your phone, as well as other running essentials like gel packs come race day.

FlipBelt says it’s been made in a way that you’ll forget you’re even wearing the belt. The lack of buckles and straps is said to ensure pinch or aggravate the skin, while a moisture wicking material is also utilised to help manage sweat and keep you comfortable.

Take a look at our top running belts for carrying the essentials.

6. Nike Lean Plus Running Armband

• £19.20

With a clear window that’s said to protect your phone from the elements while giving you easy access to your screen, this armband from Nike could be a good companion for your next run.

It has a simple design, with a hook and loop closure that will adjust to the size of your arm. It’s been constructed in a way to help keep it in place whether you’re heading out for a quick 5k or have an intense workout planned.

7. Brooks Drive 3 Pocket Run Bra

• From £67

At a glance, this sports bra wouldn’t seem like it has much storage space, but it has several clever pockets that can hold onto your phone and other essentials.

There’s a slot made specifically for your phone on the back, which is tucked securely out of the way, as well as side pockets that are designed for your card, keys or money.

Features to look out for in a running phone holder

Secure fit and adjustability – The best phone carriers for running are ones that fit snugly without being too tight and restrictive, and can be adjusted to your body to prevent bouncing and irritation during movement.

Tactile window – A clear window that still allows you to operate your phone means you don’t have to remove it to change music, check your route, or see notifications.

Sweat and weather resistance – Materials that resist moisture help protect your phone from sweat and light rain on runs. This durability also makes the carrier last longer and keeps the phone functioning properly.

Headphone or cable access points – Having ports at both the top and bottom of the phone carrier gives you flexibility for wired headphones or charging cables. Less important now that most runners wear wireless running earbuds, this feature may still be something to consider if it’s useful to you.

Reflective elements – Reflective strips or accents on your phone carrier increase your visibility to drivers and other people when running in low light or early morning/evening conditions.

Lightweight and low-profile design – A carrier that’s minimal and light reduces the feeling of added weight that can prove both uncomfortable and be more effort to carry with you as you run. A low-profile design that stays close to your body, will be more comfortable for long distances and high-intensity workouts.

For more running storage options, check out our roundup of the best running vests and hydration packs.