Raide LF 2L Running Belt
For most, there is a distinct line where running stops and other adventures begin. The LF 2L Running Belt from Raide Research was made for athletes whose aspirations take them on the road less traveled. Raide's LF 2L can carry loads that would crumple lesser belts, so take that 30m line and ultralight harness. As the day progresses and fuel diminishes, the inner bungee system allows the belt to tighten around the smaller load, keeping it bounce-free. Seven strategically placed pockets provide an efficient layout, so there's easy access to what's needed when needed. A pair of bungees in the rear will secure a pair of poles, an ice axe, or many other things because Raide knows there's more to your exploits than running, and the LF 2L is your no-bounce belt to bring the proper tools along.
SkyRun Fit Tip: We recommend going one size up from what the size chart prescribes.
- 3x3mm UHMWPE (Dyneema) is durable, flexible, and puncture-resistant.
- Four inner stuff pockets are perfect for nutrition.
- Three outer stretch pockets carry the essentials.
- Pole carry bungees; not restricted to poles!
- 650mL Locking-Cap Flask included
- Plastic supports keep the LF 2L from bunching.
Update Summer '25: The 'Sage' colorway is a limited-edition collaboration belt with Norda, featuring an adjustable hook and loop system and pale rose bungee accents. Nab one while supplies last!
Specifications | |
Weight |
155g [M] |
Volume | 2L |
Pockets | 4 inner stuff 3 outer stretch |
Pole Attachment | Yes |
Hydration Included | x1 650mL locking soft flask |
Specs Verified | Yes |
SkyRun Says | |
Usage | Technical adventures |
Notes | Inner tightening system for a no-bounce ride |
Bottom Line | Game-changing, versatile, and pretty darn swell |
Compare to other Running Belts |
Related Products
Questions & Reviews
It doesn’t bounce around or move at all once you have it on and adjusted it.
It does take a little getting used to putting it on as you have to slide it up over your hips, but that’s not a big deal for me.
For starters its extremely stiff and lacks any real give. I think it's supposed to be a feature but I certainly disagree there. For something going over your hip bones and staying connected to your body for long hours, that lack of stretch is simply not comfortable and non-conforming. I thought this would make bottle caps in the back pocket less noticeable/chafing, but this wasn't the case either.
Moreover it doesn't have more capacity than a Naked band. And it's much harder to get stuff in and out of it than a stretchier material. I can overstuff a Naked like mad and if the band is fit right, it wont bounce at all. You can't really overstuff this Raide belt by contrast.
It's also a pretty warm / not breathable material...all in all I'm not 100% sure who this belt is for or why it exists. I still give it 3 stars because even though it doesn't suit my needs, it's clearly a very high quality product and we need more of this quality in the gear world.
I have no affiliation with Raide and believe reviews can be subjective—but they can also be incorrect. At first, I was skeptical that this belt could replace my beloved UD Utility Belt. I actually discovered Raide when I saw Anton running with it and asked on Instagram if it was a new UD belt. He replied, and that’s how I found out about Raide.
I’ve used Naked, Salomon, and UD Utility Belts for years and loved them. I own S-Lab and UD Ultra Vests too, but they mostly sit in my closet. I prefer a belt with flasks in hand, a water filter, light layer for cold ascents, gels, electrolytes, and my phone.
Living in Tucson, Arizona, at the base of the Santa Catalina Mountains, I spend countless hours running in the Sonoran Desert, often in 110°F+ heat. This Raide Belt is all I use now unless I’m fast-packing with a larger pack. For the record, calling this a “warm” belt is absurd. It has never felt warm, even in extreme heat. The waist isn’t even a primary heat-release zone.
Chafing? Never. I often run shirtless with it and haven’t had a single issue. The belt being “non-conforming” or “stiff” also hasn’t been my experience. Sure, it feels different from stretch-mesh belts like Naked or UD, but I quickly adjusted. When it first arrived, I didn’t wear it for a week because I loved my UD so much. Looking back, that seems funny.
Regarding capacity: yes, it requires strategy, but it’s highly capable. For 20–30 mile runs, I carry a Sawyer Mini filter, gels, phone, earbuds (Sony XM5), inhaler, electrolyte capsules, an OR wind shell (or sometimes an Alpha Direct hoodie), and even an InReach. I’ve strapped a GoPro tripod to the back, too. Compared to other belts, nothing bounces or falls out—thanks in part to internal Velcro straps, which haven’t worn out over time.
The reviewer questioned who this belt is for. In my opinion, the Raide Belt is in a league of its own. The gap between this and other belts is immense. Other belts rely on stretch-mesh designs, which are great but come with compromises. I’ve had items fall out of them, including soft flasks. Raide’s build avoids these pitfalls.
Speaking of flasks: Raide’s 650ml flasks are a good deal, but I’ve had a few develop pinholes over time. It’s not a dealbreaker (I’ll still buy more), but I wonder why, as my older flasks from other brands are still intact.
I’d love to see Raide release a V2 of this belt or a 20–30L fastpack. As for the belt’s two small internal pockets—they’re fine for keys but not much else. Still, I haven’t felt limited.
Ultimately, my advice: Alfredo (the reviewer) should actually use the belt before critiquing it. For others considering it—buy it. $150 for a belt might seem steep, but when you’re in the canyons and mountains, function matters more than price. This belt exceeded every expectation and allowed me to forget it’s even there—a sign of truly exceptional gear.
Sorry to hear about the struggles, it shouldn't be difficult when using a 650mL or smaller flask. Send us an email at skyrun@skimo.co and we can dive into the details. Thanks!
Earn store credit by writing reviews. Learn more.
