RUNNUR - like a utility belt for your torso

The RUNNUR is a sort of belt for your upper body. More like Batman's utility belt than the average leather pants-hiker, the RUNNUR offers all kinds of storage compartments for everything from your cell phone to your water bottle. Its look is questionable, but its storage capacity isn't.

You know something's wrong when you decide to "bring the concept of the fanny pack into the 21st century." The fanny pack really should stay in the 20th century ... and even then, we might just want to pretend it didn't exist, ever. You could argue that the RUNNUR is a little less heinous than the fanny pack, but you could also argue that it's a lot bigger and more in your face. Style is in the eye of the beholder (sort of), so we'll leave the final call up to you.

Whatever your thoughts are about the RUNNUR's 'messenger bag without the bag' look, it does offer some serious gear and accessory storage. The idea was born from the inadequacy of standard pockets in holding all the electronics, gear, accessories and provisions of modern living. Its designers were looking for something that split the difference between a full backpack and a set of pants pockets. They weren't comfortable enough in themselves to go all in on a fanny pack or man purse, so they got to work on something new.

What the designers came up with is a messenger-style strap that eliminates the separate pack and integrates all storage. It includes a series of purpose-designed compartments for all the gear you'd typically stuff in your clothing pockets, purse, backpack or bag. There's a padded sunglasses pouch, cell phone sleeve, MP3 player pocket, license/ID sleeve, cash and credit card compartment and elastic water bottle holder. There's also a carabiner for attaching keys and an extra storage pouch for things like a camera or snacks. A reflector on the back adds some visibility at night.

The RUNNUR includes a foam core and mesh lining for comfort. A contoured, no-slip shoulder strap keeps it secure on your shoulder.

The name is a bit of a misnomer. Having somewhere to store your music, water, keys, etc. would be invaluable when running in a pocket-less t-shirt and exercise shorts, but RUNNUR says that the only time you probably won't use the belt is when you're actually running. Looking at the design, it's easy to see how having a strap bouncing against your chest and back for an entire run would be maddening.

The RUNNUR comes in numerous colors. The retail price is US$39, and the company says that your shirt size should equate to RUNNUR size.

RUNNUR says the strap-pack is good for cycling, hiking, travel, fitness and other activities. The video below shows that it's also good for dancing to weird music and doing air karate in the park.

Source: Runnur