FlipBeltElite Lightweight Tubular Running Belt for Phone & Running Storage, USA Company

I bought my first FlipBelt Running Belt a little over one month ago (Elite model). I was looking to replace my New Balance armband phone-holder that I've used for the last few years. The Flipbelt is very comfortable and fits my phone (Samsung S24 Ultra, without the case), a 5oz FlipBelt water bottle, my keys and a couple other small items. The design is very well thought-out with a side zipper that makes it easy to put on and take off as well as multiple pockets (zipper and 2 open access points) that make it easy to access my items, with one hand, while running and/or handling my dog. Unlike my old armband, there is very little bounce/movement as everything is strapped around my waist. I have not used it yet in heavy rain or snow to know if the water-resistant pocket and zipper keeps out all the elements. I have a 34-inch waist and the medium size fits just right. I'm very happy with this purchase.

I believe this is one of the BEST belts out there, and the front zipper pocket is much sturdier and has less shake than the rest of the belt (worth it to get this Elite series vs the original)...HOWEVER, the zipper and the zipper stops are hard plastic and metal components resting against your phone screen or cameras. This has the potential to cause scratches. I put rubber padding between these stops and my phone to prevent any touching.Please re-do this product to have the zipper on the TOP EDGE of the belt, not in the center, this way there is no way any phone can get scratched.

I am very happy with this running belt, it definitely is WAY more comfortable than some of the other run belts out there that kind of bounce on you. Since this is really thick, you don't feel the pressure of thin straps. I also run with an iphone promax in an otterbox case, which is big, bulky, heavy. It fits in the front or back pocket with no issue, and once again feels comfortable and no bounce.The side zip is both good and bad. I like that you can just zip this belt on vs having to step into it. But also it means you kind of lose a large side storage that typically is availble if the zip is not there. The zipper on the side has not unzipped on me during a run yet, I've used it for about 10 total 2-4 mile runs, a small sample size, but no issues. The grippers also prevent this thing from moving up or down my body.It is a more weatherproof material, so I am guessing in the summer, this could end up feeling more warm than the other flip belts, but for spring, winter and fall it seems perfect.

Background: This is my third flipbelt, and my first "Elite". I run 40-50mi a week, always with a belt.TL;DR - The front zipper on the "Elite" is an upgrade over the past, low-quality ones on the classic. However, the side zipper adds more problems than it's worth.Since this is my third Flipbelt, I thought I'd go with the Elite. In the past, I've had nearly no problems with these belts. They fit comfortably, hold my belonging well, don't bounce, and there's zero irritation. The only issue I had with my previous "classic" belt was that the front zipper frayed fairly easily. The "Elite" model seemed to have a higher quality front zipper, so I upgraded, thinking it would be an improvement.And it was. The front zipper has, in fact, held up a lot better. However, it's the side zipper I have a problem with now. I thought it might be nice to have that side zipper as a way to remove the belt without stepping out of it. But it turns out that it's much more pain than it's worth; It's a chafe problem, and the first time that I've had a Flipbelt that actually has made me bleed. On my last marathon, the top two teeth on the side zipper very slowly came undone and rubbed at my waist, slowly creating a large rash. It's somewhat unavoidable, unfortunately, unless the belt is maybe looser than I'd prefer it to be.My advice: Don't get the "Elite". Stick to the "Classic". I've gone back to my old "Classic" and just dealt with the zipper that sometimes sticks. It's not worth getting a side rash IMOI hope FlipBelt keeps the subtle changes on the Elite but removes the side zipper. Until then, I'd stick to the original.

Very soft and comfortable to prevent chafing. Plenty of capacity for gels or water. Cell phone pouch kept my phone from being doused during my first marathon. Paired with a handheld water bottle carrier and pouch for maximum storage and convenience.