We research the market, survey user reviews, speak with product managers and designers, and use our own experience running with our phones strapped to our arms (over shirts and jackets and right against our skin) to determine the best. How We TestedĮvery armband on this list has been evaluated and vetted by our team of test editors. The Koala Clip Original forgoes the band altogether and uses a magnetic clasp that hooks over the back of your sports bra. Most running armbands attach via a stretchy strap with a Velcro closure, but some, like the Sprigs Banjees Armband and E Tronic Edge, simply slip over your arm. And some bands, like the VUP model we've included below, use a rubber web that stretches over your phone to hold it in place, meaning the only protection between your phone and the sidewalk is whatever your phone case has to offer. With the latter design, however, keep in mind that this often means you have to attach the included adaptor directly to your case, which you may not want to do (one solution is to buy a second phone case to be used only with the armband). Some armbands have space to carry extra items like cash, cards, and a key, while others are so minimalist in their design the only thing they’re meant to carry is your phone.ĭepending on how often you find yourself accessing your phone during a run, you might choose an armband that uses a mount that attaches your phone directly to the band rather than one with a pocket that you slip your phone into.

Phone card pocket