Gear · 2017
Naked Running Band review: no bounce, three litres, and some loose threads
The rare piece of gear that does the one thing every competitor claims and fails to do.
The pitch on the Naked Running Band was a waistbelt that carries a serious load without bouncing. Every waistbelt claims this. The review’s opening position was scepticism, having worn four or five belts that all bounced the moment a full flask went in.
First impressions
Minimal and streamlined, with a step-through design that removes buckles and attachment points entirely. Weight: 2.3oz. The 4-way power mesh stretches substantially in every direction and looks as breathable as it is.
What the review rated highly
The simplicity. Four pockets wrapping the full circumference of the belt, two elastic storage straps with silicone grippers on the underside, and two bib attachment points. Nothing overbuilt. The note on the bib tabs is characteristic: if you never race with a bib, cut them off and save the weight.
Capacity. The belt swallows 3 litres of kit — as much as a minimal race vest — because the mesh expands and the designers used essentially every centimetre available.
No bounce. This is the finding that made the review. Load a 500ml soft flask or bottle into the front pocket, the back pocket, or both, and it stays put. Nothing is included in the box; the belt is designed around bottles you already own.
Drying time. The fastest-drying waistbelt the reviewer had used. You can swim in it.
What it got marked down for
The stitching. Loose threads were present on arrival, and after three runs one of the pull tabs was working its way free. The review raised it directly with one of the co-founders, who confirmed it was being addressed in the next production run. That single issue moved the $45.99 price from “good value” to “fair value, with reservations” — the reviewer’s point being that a belt this good deserves construction to match.
When to use it
Almost always, per the review — the reviewer reported reaching for it on nearly every run because he stopped noticing it was there. It carries an oversized phone, flasks, food, keys, and a rolled jacket under the rear straps.
Compared with what
Nothing, according to the review, which is a strong claim and was made having owned or used several Ultimate Direction belts among others. On storage-to-weight, fit, breathability and price, it had no equal at the time.
Verdict
Buy it, and keep a needle handy.
The belt was supplied for testing. No payment was offered or received.