Looking for the best running phone holder vest that ticks all the boxes? Most of us runners don't want to leave our phone at home, but are not ready to sacrifice comfort or convenience. The perfect solution does exist, it’s called ZelaFit.

This is a collaboration with ZelaFit. As always, this review reflects my honest opinion and I only recommend products and brands I personally use and genuinely like.

What are the advantages of a running phone holder vest?

There are plenty of good reasons to run with a phone holder vest.

• A phone holder vest allows you to always carry your phone on your runs (whilst staying hands free). Whilst it’s getting easier to find running leggings and shorts with pockets that are big enough for your phone, your wardrobe choices are limited. If all your leggings with pockets are in the wash pile, you can find yourself having to choose between leaving your phone at home or holding it in your hand.

• Phone holder vests are designed with comfort in mind, limiting the risk of chafing and distributing the weight more evenly across your upper body than if you’re wearing an arm band for instance. They’re also able to accommodates a wide range of phone sizes and models.

• This is a very handy storage solution, not only for your phone but also other essentials such as your keys, cards and energy gels.

• From a safety point of view, I personally find it reassuring to know that my phone is readily accessible. In case of emergencies, you can quickly make a call or use location services. Additionally, some vests have reflective elements, enhancing visibility during low-light conditions.

• If you’re running in the middle of a work day, you may still need to check notifications or take calls, and it’s much easier to reach for your phone at chest level.

And whilst they are primarily designed for running, nothing prevents you from wearing a phone holder vest for various outdoor activities such as hiking or cycling!

ZelaFit running phone holder vest

Have you Googled “phone holder for running” and ended up not ordering anything because you didn’t know which vest to go for? Let me introduce you to ZelaFit vests and tell you why I’ve been using them.

About ZelaFit

Born in the UK out of dissatisfaction with existing products, ZelaFit thrives to improve the freedom and comfort of everyday athletes during their training.

The young company recently launched their very first product: the ZelaFit running phone holder which blends functionality, comfort and aesthetics.

Why choose the Zelafit running vest?

My first ever experience trying a running phone holder vest (from another brand) was disappointing. The phone pocket was too small, the waistband felt too tight (although I wouldn’t say that I have a wide torso) and I only used it twice.

At first, I wasn’t sure whether I’d want to try ZelaFit because I thought this type of product was simply not for me. Turns out, I simply tried the wrong product first, and my experience with ZelaFit has been the complete opposite. Here are all the things I love about these vests:

• Patented phone pocket

  The most important element has been designed to ensure a secure fit with zero bounce.

  It opens effortlessly with a pull cord zipper and can accommodates all major smartphones, including iPhone 15 Pro Max and Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra.

• Weather-ready design

  The vest features a waterproof phone pouch and water-resistant neoprene material, which come in handy when you live in the UK!

• Light, comfortable and breathable

  Featuring heat dissipation holes, the vest doesn’t leave you soaking in sweat.

  The adjustable waistband (or chest sizes from 28-52 inches) is suitable for a wide range of silhouettes, without making you feel restricted in any way.

• More than just a phone holder

  The phone pocket contains a small internal card and cash, whilst both shoulders also feature additional storage options.

  On the right, you’ll find a key holder to attach your keys. On the left, another small pocket allows you to slide in your an energy gel, key fob, earbuds, inhaler or any other small essentials.

Are you often running in the dark or low light conditions? Zelafit have released a “Ghost” version of their running vest with highly reflective detailing on the front and back to make you more visible.

I try to run in the daylight, but in the Winter it can get tricky and the Ghost version will for sure come in handy.

Where to buy your ZelaFit running vest?

You can easily order your ZelaFit vest on Amazon for a hassle-free online experience and speedy delivery.

RRP: £29.99 and currently on offer for £23.99 - Find the Original vest here and the Ghost reflective vest here.

ZelaFit running phone holder vest vs armband phone holder

It all comes down to personal preference, but many runners including myself would rather wear a vest over an armband, firstly because it’s more comfortable to wear especially over long distances.

Plus, wearing your phone on your arm can significantly impact your arm swing and balance, causing unnecessary muscular tension on one side.

Not to mention that the ZelaFit vest offers better stability, minimizing bouncing or movement of the phone during the run. This can be particularly beneficial for those who find bouncing or shifting of an armband distracting or uncomfortable.

You can also store more than your phone in your vest, whereas storage options are pretty limited with an arm band.

Finally, what I love the most about my ZelaFit running vest is the easy access to my phone, which is super convenient and can come in handy in case of emergency. If you’ve ever tried to pull your phone out of your armband whilst running, you know that it’s not an easy task!

As for running belts, whilst they’re great to carry gels, they often start bouncing and feeling uncomfortable once you try to fit your phone.

Final words

To conclude, I couldn’t be happier with my ZelaFit running vests. I can’t imagine running without my phone and I used to only buy running leggings and shorts with side phone pockets, which really limited my options. Now, I can just wear my phone holder vest and carry everything I need!

When running, I completely forget that I'm wearing it, it doesn’t bounce and I don’t feel restricted at all. It’s been a game changer.

If you’re looking for a running phone holder vest (that does more than just carry your phone) for yourself or to gift a running enthusiast, head over to the ZelaFit store on Amazon!

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