Sternum, chest, and waist straps are essential for comfort and stability, and especially so if you plan to run with heavier loads. The same goes for breathable fabric if you’re planning to embark on an intense run or tend to sweat a lot. How much should I spend? The material of the bag has anti-odour properties, so even when carrying sweaty gear in it regularly it won’t start to smell itself, and a water-repellent coating on the outside keeps showers at bay. Stolt also sell accessories to the bag including a garment box that you can use to keep your office gear crease-free while running in.

A running belt is a must-have accessory for fitness enthusiasts who need something to hold their bits and pieces. But belts are best suited to the sport of running, because most brands have designed them specifically to benefit the action of forward motion, while also minimising the risk of bounce and chafing which often comes with high-impact exercise. The ideal position for the bag, while depending on its weight and how you run, should be on areas used to being load bearing i.e. your shoulders and hips so try and get as snug a fit as possible on these point. Adjust the shoulders straps first, then the waist and then finally the chest.Weight: most running belts are lightweight, but if you're a particularly petite runner, or you're planning on wearing the belt over a long distance such as a marathon, the lighter the better.

Fabric: if you're a particularly sweaty runner or you're exercising in a hot climate, it pays to consider the fabric. 'It is essential that the material is breathable and doesn’t retain moisture,' says Anthony. 'You need the material to allow heat to escape, so you don't overheat.' Some materials are more water resistant, others completely waterproof, while others are focused exclusively on comfort and fit.

Lightweight running bags

And if you don’t intend on running in the rain, then find one with comfortable shoulder straps (and other straps) for a better fit and more comfort. 4. Purpose Access: there's nothing worse than struggling to unzip your belt to reach a gel at mile 20. Look for a belt that is easy to access on the move. Added extras like gels loops on the waistband are always handy. Often, external straps are implemented into the design of the bag to increase comfort, compressing the contents of the bag and providing a secure fit.

If you’re going to be running in all weather conditions, it would make sense to choose a completely waterproof design. Capacity: 15L; Weight: 360g; Dimensions: 42 x 24 x 20cm (HWD); Hydration bladder compatible?: Yes; Additional straps: ChestCapacity: 25L; Weight: 1.2kg; Dimensions: 15 (D) x 28 (W) x 46 (H) cm; Hydration bladder compatible?: No; Additional straps: Sternum, waist Generally, as with most things: you get what you pay for. The more expensive the bag, typically, the higher the quality and the more comfortable it will be to wear. This will make it last-longer, it’ll be more comfortable, and you’re sure to get your money’s worth. 3. Choice of material

They fasten around your waist to hold your belongings while you work out,' explains Anthony Langley-Smith, co-founder of sports brand Proviz. 'There are countless options out there, but most running belts are very similar. They usually have a number of compartments, they can be made of different materials and come in a range of sizes, depending on what you need it for.' What to look for in a running belt If you’re just looking for something to carry a few extra running gels and extra fluids, then a running vest is likely a better option – we’ve included one on our list. 2. Budget verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{