Why a Running Belt is Better Than an Armband
Runners are passionate about their runs and feeling the ground beneath their feet and the wind through their hair. Runners love to run free, unimpeded. And, the sleek running outfits with little or no pockets reflect this.
However, in today’s world, carrying a cell phone in the event of an important call is the norm. And let’s not forget the keys which also accompany most runners on a run. Should a runner not want to hold these items in their hands or pockets (where they might bounce, cause discomfort, or even fall), they need to transport them with the proper running accessory.
A great running accessory helps runners attain the best performance possible, and runners use the different accessories to fit their running needs and style. And while running accessories range from special watches to socks, the primary concern for runners is the transportation of personal effects. Running belts and armbands are the main accessories used to achieve this.
What’s the Difference Between an Armband and a Running Belt
The differences between the armband and running belt start with the location on the body on which they are worn. The armband straps around the upper arm and the running belt straps around the waist. And while the armband is great for carrying a smartphone, that’s primarily all it can carry. The running belt, on the other hand, functions the same but can easily stores phones plus more.
What Makes a Running Belt Better Than an Armband?
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Comfort– As touched on above, running belts and armbands rest on different parts of the body. The running belt’s location around the core is more ideal than the armband’s location on the arm because 1. During runs, an armband may rub against the arm’s bare skin causing chaffing or slippage due to sweat. Armbands may impede performance by weighing down an arm and the body with one-sided weight– possibly affecting gait.
The running belt, not usually worn on bare skin, avoids the first issue. Furthermore, the running belt’s placement around the core is less intrusive and keeps weight evenly distributed. A running belt allows runners to move arms as rigorously as needed without constraint. For these reasons, many runners find running belts to be more comfortable and less distracting. - Capacity– Running belts have more space and can hold more. This is important for the times a runner wants to store more than a cell phone and keys. For example, longer runs may require a runner to transport water or even a snack. And more vigorous runs or terrain (like the woods), may prompt a runner to carry first aid essentials as well. Furthermore, a runner may need to adjust to the environment and pack a small amount of sunscreen or insect repellent, etc. or these days, store COVID-19 items like sanitizer. A running belt can easily accommodate these: an armband cannot.
- Versatility– Running belts are versatile, functional and some have style. Because of this, they can be worn outside of runs and used to carry non-run related items, while, for example, on vacation or commuting for work. Furthermore, running belts are practical for everyday activities and errands. Hydration running belts can also be great for carrying water bottles for hydration. Instead of carrying water bottles in in your hands, you can simply clip them to your running belt.
Whether to use a running belt or an armband is a personal decision. However, to effectively hold personal items and maximize performance, utilizing a running belt makes more sense. A running belt offers greater comfort, utility, and versatility for the runs ahead.
