Fluffy Velcro doesn't mean weaker Velcro – after detaching and reattaching the straps 100 times some became fluffy, but this didn't always mean they were becoming weaker. Some armbands were just as strong despite the fluffiness, making it more of a cosmetic issue rather than a serious practical one. Armbands worn over clothing are less secure – although some armbands stayed in place both on skin and over clothing, we found they were generally more prone to sliding down when worn over the top of a sleeve. They can get in the way – as running belts are larger and you'll likely be carrying more items in them, they can prove more cumbersome, especially if you're sprinting or running on inclines. I went in skeptical thinking it wouldn’t make all that much difference to my current solution of a waistband. I was wrong. It makes a huge different to making you feel you have a bit more freedom to move, whist keeping your phone safe, but easily accessible. It’s the traditional format used by joggers but there are some alternatives that could provide an even more convenient option for hardcore runners.

Best Running Armbands And Phone Holders - Which? Best Running Armbands And Phone Holders - Which?

Dehydration can give you a headache and ruin your run at best, and can cause some very severe health conditions, such as heatstroke or seizures, at worst. Not all screen windows are touch-friendly – there was a big mix in how responsive our phone touchscreen was through the screen window. With some armbands it was as responsive as when holding the phone in your hand, and for others the touchscreen wasn't responsive at all. However, if it's hot outside, you sweat a lot, or if you're just going for a lengthier run, carrying water is a very sensible thing to do.

Running belts

Spacing out your hydration equally over a longer period is a good way to ensure you get the most out of the water you're drinking. We found it comfortable on bare skin and despite a little wobbling it stayed firmly in place. Over clothing we found it average, though, as it was more prone to sliding down during use. If you’re looking for a phone holder for your daily or weekly jog in the park, you may have considered a running belt as an option for you.

Best running chest phone holders to stay connected on the go

We sprayed each armband 15 times with a spray bottle to simulate the sort of water exposure you might face when out in the rain and were pleased to find that almost all of them protected the phone from getting wet.

For example, if you'd lose one litre of fluid during a 60-minute run, you should aim to drink around 250ml every 15 minutes to keep optimally hydrated. lululemon’s Fast and Free Run Belt is a sleek and lightweight belt that can keep your smartphone safe and secure during your run. Chest phone holder – these are all about minimalism and easy access. Your phone is right there on your chest. Like arm holders, they don’t hold much else though – keys and a gel or two is about the limit. Unlike many standard phone armbands, this running armband grips your phone with a series of elastic bands. The benefit of this is that it can hold pretty much any smartphone up to 6.5in, while also giving you better access to your phone while you’re out on your run.