BoulderRunning.com

Recently I had a question on Twitter from @ColRunner about how I carry my iPhone while running. I do some testing of iPhone Apps and like to take photos along my running routes, so I need to have complete access to it. The simplest option I have found so far is just holding it in my hands. It can be burdensome at times like when I am trying to do some speed work or drills, so I have started some research on armbands and other options to use with the iPod, iPhone, Blackberry Storm or any other touch screen device.

Most of the online reviews seem to come from the tech space and not from the fitness or running angle. So I have had to do some digging around this.

Here is what I know so far:

Armbands/Belts

Incase Sport Armband for iPhone / iTouch

Incase Sport Armband for the iPhone featuring iMapMyRun application

I had the opportunity to take this out for a trial run recently. Not being used to the armband around tension and the heavy flat item attached to my bicep, it was a bit awkward, at first. The lightweight, adjustable neoprene armband had reflective details, a removable Velcro tab that provides an option for headphone cord management. The armband is also washable by hand to get rid of the nasties.

Incase Armband

I was surprised to find out that the phone was as accessible through the plastic cover as it was. I had no issues accessing the controls to the phone and applications. As an added bonus, I was pleased to find I could do this with my gloves on.

What I didn’t like was that it was near impossible to take the phone out. Obviously something you don’t usually have to do when running. But for me, taking photos on the run is a must and since the neoprene backing covered the lens, I was in a quandary. If I am to continue using it, I might just have to create a “workaround” for this

Retails for around $34 but you can find it for $28 right now at Mapmyfitness.com
More Product Details » http://www.goincase.com/products/detail/cl56246

Other options

Throwing the question out to the twittersphere I got this response back after I noticed a tweet that he took waterproof armband out on a rainy run.
d_tw @boulderrunner “it’s made by Belkin. I couldn’t find a model number. Had for over a year now. Key holder is a little small. Otherwise great!”

Sport Armband Plus with FastFit from Belkin looks like it could be another nice option for wearing on the arm.

Chicrunner on her blog had this to say: “I carry my iPhone with my in my iFitness belt (which I LOVE and swear by)”

Gloves

Fingertip Chic from Dots Gloves in the D105 + D11

On the low end of the price range but the high end of cool factor, are the D105 + D110 from Dots Gloves

Features: Perfectly balanced warmth: tight-knit acrylic yarn. Superior style: chic fingertips, discretely folded ribbed cuff. There are some really nice product photos included in the review at iLounge.com

Currently they are sold out at their website and not available till January. Bummer

Only $15
http://www.dotsgloves.com/

Tavo Glove with Playpoint Technology

One promising option is the Tavo glove with PlayPoint technology in the fingertips. They are made of wind resistant fleece, boast a silcone texture in the palms for that no-slip grip and look to be perfect for those chillier fall and winter days.

They look to retail about $29.

http://www.tavoproducts.com/

180s UltraLite™ CRG™

I have an older version of these gloves and love them. This newer versions boast its Tec Touch fabric pods on the index finger and thumb allowing for operation of touch screen devices while keeping your gloves on. The retractable, windproof polyester hoods offers protection of your digits and I have found them to be a handy holder for my phone while running. You can also tuck awy into the cuff when not needed.

The hood and palm offer the no-slip grip I’ve been looking for in my next pair of gloves.

They retail for about $25.00 but You can use the 180s promotion code ADDICTS and you will get 10% off purchase till Jan 9th

http://www.180s.com/