Product Review: The Free Train V1 Running Vest

With it's sleek design, comfortable fit, and quick-release phone access, this running vest breathes new life into the running "belt" game.

The V1's slim fit prevents any bulky material bunch-ups or sloshing while in motion. Plus I look like a badass heading into battle.

NOTE: This review is NOT sponsored or endorsed by Free Train. I purchased this product on my own and the opinions expressed are as a genuine consumer.

I’m a DJ when I run. I can’t simply hit shuffle and go — I’ve got to change my songs constantly to match my mood or pace. So, if you see me on the streets, I’m almost always fidgeting with my phone in my hands or with a running belt.

I’ve tried a few different running belts, but the sloshing of the weight make them too uncomfortable and keeps spinning around, or riding up my hips. I had been using the FlipBelt, but as the size of cell phones only continues to increase every year, these slimmer belts are just too constricting.

I wanted something narrow, comfortable and easy to access my phone, while still having the space to store essentials such as keys and gels. My answer has come with a near-perfect solution — the Free Train running vest.

The minimal design makes clever use of shoulder spaces to provide surprisingly spacious pockets.

Designed to keep your phone close and easy to view without being distracting — the star feature of this vest (now with two versions — the V1 and V2) is the snap-secured clear touch-friendly pouch that is large enough to carry nearly every phone in the market, as well as a smaller inner pouch for cards. The pouch folds down from the snap, displaying your screen toward you while keeping it secured to the vest and behind a protective plastic screen — butter-fingers, rejoice!

“My answer has come with a near-perfect solution -- The Free Train running vest.”

In addition to holding your phone and cards, this vest features two surprisingly spacious shoulder pockets. I was able to comfortably fit two gels in the velcro mash pocket and my bulky car key fob in the other zipper pocket. The two adjustable non-slip straps and breathable fabric material make this vest a comfortable, snug fit that stays in place while on the run.

Adjustable side straps create a custom it that doesn't loosen while running.

I took it out with me this morning on my run and was beyond pleased. I was able to quickly access my phone without slowing down to shove it back into a too-small pocket. It has a secure fit without being too tight and I had no issues with it twisting or bunching up my shirt. The only drawback this vest has is that most phones will not fit if you’ve got them in a phone case. It can be a slight pain, but pretty trivial compared to the benefits the vest has.

Overall, I’m really satisfied with this product! I’m looking forward to taking it out on the course for my upcoming half marathon and as far as phone fidgeting goes, my V1 and I will happily leave that in the dust.

Check it out for yourself here and be sure to follow along for more reviews!

-C