Before I got into many of the home workout programs I’ve reviewed on this site, I was a runner. I continue to be a runner even as I continue to do the programs like P90X3 and T25. I find that running is the perfect way to keep my cardio endurance up, and it helps with keeping up with the cardio and core work that is required from many of the at home workouts I do. I have been experimenting with running belts, and the Flipbelt and Spibelt are the two best products I’ve found to keep my hydrating and gels with me on my runs. While they both have redeeming qualities (I actually use both still), there are a few key differences.
Flipbelt vs SPIbelt: Best Design
This is probably the biggest difference when it comes down to it. The Flipbelt is essentially one piece of elastic material with a single pocket, whereas the SPIbelt is like a modern and streamlined “fanny pack.” I use quotations because I don’t want you to get the idea that it is dated, as it looks much better than your dad’s beach fanny pack from the 80’s. Still, when I’m running, I prefer the way the Flipbelt holds my keys, wallet, etc. I can put my things on either side, and I don’t feel the “bounce” of my things when I am taking big strides.
Winner: Flipbelt
Best Value
While they’re close in price, the SPIbelt averages a a little less than the cost of the Flipbelt. While this might be a small price to pay for some, the reviews are pretty mixed when it comes down to which belt is the best. Because each has redeeming qualities the other doesn’t have, the SPIbelt is the best value due to the lower cost.
FlipBelt Men's FB0114-NEOP-XL.1, Neon Punch, Extra Large
Price: $37.00
1 used & new available from $37.00
Winner: Spibelt
Flipbelt vs SPIbelt: Most Comfortable Running Belt
As I mentioned earlier, the Flipbelt is a single elastic material that fits around your waist, while the SPIbelt has an adjustable strap and plastic buckle to secure it to your body. The Flipbelt comes in sizes, and for anyone who might want to share the belt with someone with a different body shape (my wife, who is 30 lbs. lighter than me and about 6″ smaller in the waist), it makes it difficult. The SPIbelt, on the other hand, can be adjusted so if you lose inches around your waist or want to share with someone, is much more comfortable. While I personally like the way the Flipbelt feels on just me, the winner isâ¦
Winner: Spibelt
Additional Considerations
All things equal, things like style and “washability” come into play. Personally, I like the way the Flipbelt looks, and it comes in plenty of colors. Both the Flipbelt vs. SPIbelt can be worn underneath your clothes, or on top of them. Personally, I like the way the Flipbelt looks, and blends better to my running clothes rather than the SPIbelt. The Flipbelt is also easier to wash, as I’ve heard people complain the the material doesn’t stand up to multiple washes with the SPIbelt.
Winner: Flipbelt
Best Overall Running Belt: Flipbelt
This is a tight contest between the Flipbelt vs SPIbelt. I think both have redeeming qualities. For me, I enjoy running with the Flipbelt more than the SPIbelt. I am also a sweaty runner who runs with the belt under my shirt, so I appreciate the fact the the Flipbelt stands up to washes after every use.
Winner: Flipbelt