Raide LF 2L Running Belt Review: Batman would be Jealous

What You Need To Know

Introduction to the Raide LF 2F Running Belt

TAYLOR: Because of where I live and run, I’ve converted to almost only wearing running belts. I’m very lucky that I can get away with using a handheld for most runs, even in the middle of summer. If I’m going longer, it is easy to add a couple of extra gels and replace my handheld with a filter bottle, thanks to the luxury of fresh mountain streams cascading nearly everywhere.

This goes for races, too. Running belts make it easy to fit the essentials, carry them comfortably, and feel minimalistic.

I typically run into a couple of problems, though — Running belts don’t always suffice when I want to do big adventures, and the main reason for that is that waist belts often lack the space and/or ability to carry a few extra items without flapping around like a bulldog’s jowls.

That’s where the Raide LF 2L bridges a gap like no other product on the market currently. It’s obvious that the designer of this belt is very in tune with mountain movement, as both the fit and storage are spot-on.

Does the Raide LF 2F Running Belt fit comfortably?

TAYLOR: The Raide LF 2L Running Belt is slightly wider and uses thicker materials than most, which will be different for those used to wearing belts. However, both components contribute to the high-performance fit and extreme durability.

No matter what size you get, the fit will be snug. It’s a true zero-bounce piece of gear that is mapped really specifically. I’m a true medium in most clothing and gear, and the medium belt fit me well, especially after a few sessions. Kyle Siegel (the designer of the belt) recommended putting it around my knees and giving it a few stretches upon getting the belt. I would recommend the same. You’ll hear a few threads stretching, but you won’t harm anything. The overall structure will soften just a bit.

Raide’s LF 2L Running Belt has a reverse funnel design. It’s slightly wider at the hip side (bottom) of the belt and slimmer toward the waist (top). The front and rear take on a similar element as the front is slightly shorter than the back. Even though I’m fairly “square” in that region, I thought the design was quite comfortable. I found that it actually stayed put better than any other belt I’ve used, even though I don’t fit an “hourglass” physique.

An internal suspension creates an extra level of security unlike any other belt. It uses a dual hook-and-loop strap system that can be accessed from the front pockets. Most often, I had it on the loosest setting. Even with a full belt, I still had zero issues with bounce. Honestly, this is the only feature that I would categorize as “non-essential,” but it makes incremental differences. The internal suspension will really matter for those who are looking for a single percentage point of performance.

For those worried about fit, the risk of going up a size is very minimal. This is where I think the internal suspension system adds more value.

How durable is the Raide LF 2F Running Belt?

TAYLOR: I’ve cycled through a few belts of different brands over the years. Not because something new came on the market that wowed me (until now), but mostly because of durability issues. Seams lost touch, mesh stretched out too much, and so on.

That will not be the case with the Raide LF 2L. Its combination of elastic ripstop material, internal suspension system, and softer insulation provides equal structure and strength no matter the load.

The back panel contains three millimeters of foam, which acts as a cushion and provides more structure to hold an optimal shape and stay close to the body.

These thoughtful supports and materials should ensure years of use even after the 5-year warranty. I’m confident that the Raide LF 2L Running Belt will be one of those lifetime purchases.

How much storage does the Raide LF 2F Running Belt offer?

TAYLOR: With bounce completely handled, it became my mission to stuff the Raide LF 2L Running Belt full of crap to see how much weight could be run with comfortably. There’s a complete set of seven pockets to fill. Raide also claims that the belt can take the place of a running vest. In my mind, that means it should be able to carry just as much and just as comfortably.

The rear contains a two-layer pocket that consists of a smaller zippered pocket inside of a larger rear pouch. Of course, most of my stuffing happened here. It was actually easy for me to stuff a 500ml soft flask (with filter top), a light windbreaker, and a couple of gels just in this rear pouch.

A 650ml Raide soft flask comes with the purchase and fits perfectly inside. Even though the pocket was virtually full, I was able to keep it closed tight with the single clasp. To my surprise, there was no bounce on the technical uphills or on the speedy downhills.

The front also has a pouch-style pocket that could fit a flask if desired. I would most often stuff my phone up front (when a bottle was in the rear). I didn’t love that my phone’s screen was pressed against the internal suspension system’s plastic loop, but it always seemed to come out just fine. There was still room to easily stow shed items like gloves and/or a buff as needed.

To either side of that main front pocket are a couple of “gel pockets.” They are on the body side of the belt, which makes organization simple. They are sizable enough for the average gel but not quite big enough for some of the larger packets unless you fold and cram them. Doing so caused some weird bulges. This was only a real issue if I was carrying something sizable for firm up front at the same time.

When all is said and done, could the Raide LF 2L hold as much as a pack? The real test came when I threw a pair of poles in the mix. And would you believe that the verdict remained the same? Good on you, Raide. Mission successful.

Would we keep wearing the Raide LF 2F Running Belt?

TAYLOR: Minimalism doesn’t have to be a crutch. Raide’s LF 2L Running Belt proves that. There are plenty of pockets to mindfully stuff the necessary gear, plus a couple of extra items. If you catch me running for more than 90 minutes on trails, runs that require a couple of extra pieces of gear, or races, I’ll definitely be wearing this belt.

Even though it has a hefty price tag, the Raide LF 2L is worth considering due to its extreme performance, lifespan, and 5-year warranty.

You can pick up the Raide LF 2F Running Belt and a 650mL soft flask for $150 on Raide’s website using the button below.