If you run with your phone, you've probably tried a few ways to carry it: in your hand, strapped to your arm, or bouncing in a belt around your waist. Each one has a catch. Here's an honest look at the common options, what each is good for, and how to carry your phone comfortably without a belt.
What are the ways to carry a phone while running?
1. Holding it in your hand
It's simple and free, but it throws off your arm swing, your hand gets sweaty, and one stumble can mean a cracked screen. It's fine for a short jog but tiring on longer runs.
2. An armband
Armbands keep your hands free, but they can slip down or pinch, and getting your phone out to check your pace or take a photo usually means peeling off the band. Bigger phones also make armbands heavy and awkward.
3. A running belt or fanny pack
Belts hold more than an armband, but many runners find they bounce or ride up, especially with a heavy phone. You also have one more thing to buckle, adjust and wash.
4. Leggings or shorts with pockets
Built-in pockets work well when your clothes have them, but many running clothes don't, and side pockets are often too small for today's larger phones. You're also limited to the outfits that have a pocket.
5. A magnetic waistband pocket
A magnetic pocket like the RooSport slips over the waistband of whatever you're already wearing and holds in place with hidden magnets. There's no belt or strap, so it moves with you instead of bouncing, and it adds a pocket to clothes that don't have one.
How do you carry your phone while running without a belt?
The easiest way is to add a pocket to your waistband. Slip a RooSport over the waistband of your leggings, shorts or skirt, let the magnets click together, and drop your phone inside. It sits snug against your body, so it doesn't bounce, and you can reach your phone in a second.
Most runners wear it at the front or side; some prefer the back. Because it's worn inside the waistband, the fabric against your skin is soft Lycra, and the magnets hold it so firmly that it doesn't rub.
Which size do I need for my phone?
- RooSport Large (7.5" × 4.5"): fits every size smartphone, including Pro Max and Ultra models with a case, plus 8–10 energy gels.
- RooSport Small (6" × 4"): fits a smaller phone, or keys, cards and 4–6 gels if you leave your phone at home.
Will the magnets hurt my phone?
No. Today's smartphones don't have a magnetic hard drive, so the magnets don't affect them. Chip and tap-to-pay cards are fine too. Only older cards and hotel keys that rely on a magnetic stripe can be affected.
What else can I carry on a run?
Along with your phone, a RooSport Large holds keys, a card, cash, energy gels, an inhaler or two EpiPens. The hidden zipper pocket keeps small things secure, and the waterproof fabric keeps sweat and rain off your phone.
The bottom line
If armbands slip and belts bounce, try adding a pocket right to your waistband. It's the most comfortable way we've found to carry a phone on a run. That's why I designed the RooSport after years of marathon running. Have a question about which size is right for you? See our FAQs or contact us.