SPIbelt: http://www.spibelt.com/
I received an offer for a sample SPIbelt, a storage pouch invented by a woman named Kim Overton who had trouble transporting her keys during her runs. My SPIbelt arrived in October and I started using it during my long weekend runs when I wished to carry more than the ID and $5 bill that I'd slip into the small pouch of my running pants. Despite what you call it the SPIbelt is not much different than a fanny pack but the SPIbelt design is superior for athletics. I decided the real test would come during the Cape Cod Marathon Relay when I would run well over an hour with it but before I did that I wanted to get a feel for the device and make sure it wouldn't interfere with my run.
First Impressions
The SPIbelt is a pouch that connects to a stretchable/sizable belt that clips securely behind the runner's back. The pouch itself is made of a stretchable fabric that expands impressively to accommodate multiple items, some as large as a flip-style cell phone. The design of the belt holds the pouch close to the body and, with proper tension, the items are held securely to the body with no bouncing or movement to distract the runner. The zipper pull on the pouch is large enough to allow easy access while running and the position of the zipper is designed to open at the top to prevent items from falling out when the zipper is opened during a run. I found that I could place items collectively weighing up to ten ounces without noticing the unit during a run. It did take a few tries to find a balance in tension on the belt between too tight and too loose but it was simple to adjust and change to accommodate positioning, layers, etc. One properly positioned the SPIbelt was completely transparent to the experience and I've found myself forgetting to take it off after a run a number of times.
Experience in Use
My first impressions of the SPIbelt were positive, I could put a small package of energy chews, a compass and the remote FOB from my car into the pouch, along with an ID card, cash or a credit card. The position of the pouch and the fabric prevented any sweat reaching the items. I've had more than a few experiences where I've pulled damp, wet dollar bills from my running pants pocket to buy water after a vigorous run in Central Park so this was a welcome change.
I often run with my iPhone positioned in an arm band holder but occasionally I prefer to take along my other, smaller phone. I've found that placing that phone in the pouch does not impact my motion or balance and I suspect that it would be much easier to answer a phone that's in a zippered pouch than one that's tightly held on my arm within a sleeve. I experimented with the pouch a week before my relay during a hill training session where I ate energy chews during the workout and I found the process of accessing them very easy.
The Relay experience was similarly positive, I packed everything but a phone since I was using the iPhone with MotionX GPS to track my route. I forgot I was wearing the SPIbelt until I was making my way up a hill during my second leg and really felt I needed a boost. I remembered that I had a package of Luna Moons and after consuming a couple on the go I was good to go for the completion of the leg.
Conclusion
The SPIbelt is the best solution I've seen for runners who wish to carry small items during a run without distraction. The line of SPIbelts includes dual pocket belts, belts with inner pockets, water bottle holders and race number belts. There is a wide variety of colors including reflectives with prices ranging between $11.95 and $29.95. It's a useful item that has become part of my long run gear. Theses are inexpensive devices relative to their utility that would make a great holiday gift for any runner.
This review by The Emerging Runner
