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? However, it’s a streamlined product that offers a practical solution for anyone who wants to bring their phone on a run or workout. 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. 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.

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. The Freetrain V1 Vest made life much easier. I was able to access my running app within seconds or conveniently skip a song on my playlist without grinding to a halt. Price And Where To Buy 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. 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. The Freetrain V1 Vest elevated my running experience. It felt comfortable to wear and makes you feel like an athlete.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 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.

It’s the traditional format used by joggers but there are some alternatives that could provide an even more convenient option for hardcore runners. 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.The LifeProof LifeActiv armband solves the problem of having to change your armband every time you upgrade your phone. For the traditionalists reading this article, we’ve included an armband option in our roundup on the best phone holders for runners. 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.