For the traditionalists reading this article, we’ve included an armband option in our roundup on the best phone holders for runners. All of which would be fine if the Freetrain succeeded at its main purpose, which is to make your phone easier to access on the run than any other product, but it doesn’t. While it might be better than an armband, I certainly found it less easy than using a belt. I found armbands and running belts frustrating because it would take 10-20 seconds to access my phone and pause my live workout on my fitness app.

Some joggers don’t like to be without their phone despite the opportunity to take a break from your screen to work on your fitness and wellbeing. Compared to some rival products that I’ve tested, the Freetrain Hydro 1 Vest is the best option on the market for athletes who want a versatile workout vest. What Are Customers Saying?If you’re looking for a phone holder for your daily or weekly jog in the park, you may have considered a running belt as an option for you. It’s the traditional format used by joggers but there are some alternatives that could provide an even more convenient option for hardcore runners. lululemon’s Fast and Free Run Belt is a sleek and lightweight belt that can keep your smartphone safe and secure during your run. The addition of a bottle holder sounds good, but actually it serves to reduce the efficiency of phone access. And that’s not to mention the complementary water bottle, which – unlike the rest of the vest – feels like it’s made from fairly cheap plastic.

I was really impressed with Freetrain’s latest running vest – the addition of a water bottle holder makes this an even more versatile product. The Hydro 1 Vest – made from the same comfortable, high-stretch fabric as the V1 – aims to step the practicality up a notch, with the addition of a water bottle holder, sitting to the right of the phone pouch. Running in the countryside means I have to stop frequently to allow the occasional car or tractor go past. However, it’s a streamlined product that offers a practical solution for anyone who wants to bring their phone on a run or workout. But what is it like to use? The basic concept is Freetrain V1 holds your phone by your chest, in a pouch with a plastic window that lets you use it when you undo the popper clasp that keeps it in place. But there’s no chance of then dropping it, as it’s still attached.The all reflective print and material adds the element of safety so that you may be seen in the dark. The Freetrain V1 Vest elevated my running experience. It felt comfortable to wear and makes you feel like an athlete. The LifeProof LifeActiv armband solves the problem of having to change your armband every time you upgrade your phone.

The appeal of the V1 (which, we should say, is still available at freetrain.co.uk) is its minimal design. It’s so lightweight you barely notice it’s there, and the central location of the phone pouch (rather than just to the right, as with the Hydro 1) is more convenient, especially when you’re on the move. First of all, I found it unexpectedly difficult to get the phone in. The makers boast that they “can confidently say that the pouch will fit 99% of modern phones”, but my iPhone 12 Pro was a tight fit even after removing its In fact, the bottle holder is so big that I was able to store a small face towel along with my bottle so I could dry off when I took some respite during my run.The vest has straps on either side so you can adjust it to meet your personal preferences, whether you like a tight fit like me or a slightly looser fit. If you’re like me, you may use your phone so you can listen to some adrenalin-inducing tunes or an inspiring audiobook or podcast. Of course, there’s also personal safety to consider. Having your phone with you on your run allows you to call for help in the case of emergency.