The Over-Packer’s Guide to Storage-Rich Running Gear
Unashamed over-packer here with the running apparel guide you never knew you needed. Yes sure, the internet is filled with guides to find the best shorts, sports bras, and shoes for runners; but what about the stuff for runners who like to be prepared? Where is our little corner of the internet? Well, huzzah! You’ve found it!
Let’s face it, pockets aren’t just a nice-to-have; they’re a need-to-have. So, here is a tried and tested guide to the best running gear with built-in storage for stashing essentials like energy gels, your smartphone, lip ice, water, and more.
Shopping for running kit with storage solutions: What to Look for
Here’s what to keep in mind when you’re shopping for running apparel with storage:
- Phone Pockets: Look for secure, zippered or envelope stretch pockets that can fit your smartphone without it bouncing around.
- Gel Storage: Energy gels are a runner’s best friend, but they’re useless if they’re not easily accessible and you’re unable to reach for them mid-stride. Opt for waistbands with small, easy-access pockets or gel storage sleeves designed specifically for gels or chews.
- Hydration Solutions: Some running shorts, belts, and vests come with pockets for small soft water flasks or collapsible cups. Whether you run long distances or are just perpetually thirsty, this is a game-changer for any runner.
- Key Storage: Because losing your car key mid-run is the stuff of nightmares, find gear with a tiny, secure pocket for your house key or car fob. Bonus points if there’s a built-in bungee cord with a carabiner to fasten your key.
Brands that get it
Not sure where to start? Here are a few brands that nail the storage game. All the gear mentioned below has been tried and tested and comes with the over-packer’s stamp of approval.
With the right running apparel, you can hit the road with all your essentials right where you need them. So, go forth, find your perfect gear, and run like the wind — because you’ve got pockets now, and you’re ready for anything!
Puma Velocity 3″ Running Shorts
Unleash your running potential with these running shorts built for storage. Featuring dryCELL technology, ergonomic cutlines for ultimate movement, and a tunnelled drawcord for a perfect fit, these shorts are ultra-comfortable for long or short runs.
Storage details: A mesh back pocket is built into the internal brief and is big enough to store a large smartphone or keep gels secure and easily within reach. This functional feature has proven to be a game-changer on my short runs where I need a secure, out-of-sight place to store my phone.
Adidas Adizero Running Gel Short
Whether you’re logging mileage or going for a personal record, this pair of Adidas running shorts has pockets for days. Heat.Rdy technology keeps you cool and comfortable when you turn up the intensity, while stretchy yet supportive fabric and an elastic waist move with you through every stride. Thoughtful pocket placements make these running shorts the ultimate over-packer’s friend.
Storage details: Stash your essentials in the back zip pocket so you can focus on your pace, not your stuff. The back pocket features a bungee cord with a key clip for extra peace of mind. Upping the ante on the storage front is a series of inner envelope pockets along the waistband. With a large pocket in the front that’s big enough to store your phone or a small soft cup and side pockets in various sizes for gels and other must-haves, these shorts were undoubtedly designed by runners, for runners.
Puma x HYROX Mid Impact Bra
I know what you’re thinking; doesn’t every bra double as a place to store things? Technically yes, but not many bras have an actual pocket where you can securely stash things like Puma’s HYROX-branded Mid Impact Bra. This ultra-comfortable running bra is also available without the HYROX branding for those looking for other colourways. Take your training to the next level with this high-performance bra featuring sweat-wicking DryCell material.
Storage details: Full disclosure, I’m not sure if this bra was designed with storage in mind but the bra does feature an internal breathable lining for “enhanced versatility”, which I’ve interpreted to mean optional storage. The internal liner of the bra creates a large front pocket that doubles as a super handy and secure place to store tissues, bank notes, and gels, I’ve even stashed my car key in there when I realised the shorts I was wearing had no place to store my key safely.
Rock Rabbit running belt
Do you NEED a running belt for your next marathon? No. Should you have one? Yes. A marathon takes a lot of energy to complete and a huge part of doing it in a reasonable time is getting in proper nutrition. Wearing a running belt during your training runs and a marathon is a great way to guarantee that you have enough fuel to make it the distance. I like this South African-made one from Rock Rabbit because it’s competitively priced, not too bulky, jamp-packed with storage options, and it rests comfortably on my waist. It’s also made with sweat-wicking mesh fabric that will help keep your lower back (where the pouch sits), cool. The belt sits securely in place even when it’s fully loaded so there’s no concern of it bouncing around during your run.
Storage details: This genius running belt features 3 fold-over envelope compartments for all the storage options you could ever need. The main compartment is 20cm long and can hold a 500ML soft flask. The two side compartments are 17cm long and are big enough to hold an iPhone 11 Pro. The belt is made from a stretchy elasticated fabric to ensure there’s no bouncing and your items stay secure.
Rock Rabbit V2 4-Litre Running Vest
The final boss in storage, a running vest solves all your storage needs. If you need a lightweight pack for a run or hike then a running vest is a great solve. I like this lightweight option from Rock Rabbit as it’s versatile and it fits snugly against the chest while adjusting to the rest of the body easily. I like that it comes with the option to add two 500ml soft flasks, so that you don’t have to find a water bottle that fits with your new vest. The pack is made with breathable eyelet mesh and a stretchy fabric for the pockets. The stretchy fabric and elasticated top keep everything in place while allowing for easy access while on the run.
Storage details: This 4-litre pack is ideal for trail runs up to 3 hours as it has a 1-litre water capacity and another 3-litre capacity for everything else. This pack has 4 front pockets for maximum storage and ease of use. This includes 2 stretchy pockets to hold 2 x 500 ml water flasks, 2 large front pockets on each side for your essential items like food bars, a large cell phone or a rain jacket that isn’t needed anymore. There is an elastic loop in one of the big pockets to secure a car key. The back has 1 pocket. This large pocket can hold a rain jacket, first aid kit, extra food or another water flask.
