Burly Belt Could Replace Your Running Vest: Raide Research LF 2L

I was halfway into my 4-hour mountain run in Alaska’s Chugach Range as I crested the next ridge on my route. My run had taken me from sea level, up a 4,000-foot climb in 2 miles, and off-trail into an alpine valley, where another ridgeline, summit, and multi-thousand-foot descent separated me from completing my loop. It was September, and while still warm down low, a stiff fall breeze picked up on the ridgeline.

I quickly put on a long-sleeve shirt and a wind jacket and kept moving. An hour later, darkness had fully arrived. I pulled out my headlamp and donned a buff and gloves as I made the final descent.

I was back at my truck hours after leaving, without needing a pack or running vest. Equipped with my Raide Research LF 2L, I managed to fit everything I needed for a multi-hour adventure into a waist belt.

Made with supportive foam and plastic stays to enhance its structure, the LF 2L’s design eliminates almost all bounce, no matter how much I’m carrying. After many miles of use, this running belt has fully replaced my running vest for runs of 4 or 5 hours or more, requiring no resupply. Its 2L capacity provides enough room to store everything I need for daily mountain runs.

In short: The Raide Research LF 2L ($149) is a high-capacity running belt that comes at a premium price. It’s got seven pockets, internal adjustment straps, a trekking pole/ice axe carry system, and an included soft flask. With a 2L capacity, it has a generous volume. Accordingly, its price more resembles that of a running vest. However, this belt is perfect for multi-hour runs where resupplies aren’t available.

Compare the Raide LF 2L Running Belt with others in GearJunkie’s guide to the Best Running Vests and Packs.

The Raide Research LF 2L Review

Design & Construction

The Raide LF 2L is a high-capacity running belt that combines the functionality of a vest with the lower profile of a belt. It can carry as much as some vests, but avoids bouncing or sagging when fully loaded.

The LF 2L is constructed from 70-denier stretch-woven 78% nylon, 16% Lycra, 6% UHMWPE ripstop fabric. Not only is this material highly elastic, but it is also incredibly durable and long-lasting. It shows no signs of wearing or stretching out after nearly 100 miles of testing.

To achieve its no-bounce performance, the LF 2L incorporates an internal strap system. This puts tension across the back and sides while securing to the Velcro tabs in the front. The LF 2L is also built with a 3mm-thick foam back. It makes the belt more comfortable, adds some structure, and also acts as insulation (so your body heat won’t warm up your bottle).

The LF 2L weighs just 5.5 ounces. Compared to the vests and packs on GearJunkie’s guide to the Best Running Vests and Packs, it would have the second-lowest volume but would be the lightest by far.

Features

The LF 2L is loaded with thoughtful features and design quirks. With seven total pockets and 2 L of storage, it has a generous volume for storing on-trail necessities. I could fit everything I needed for multiple-hour runs easily into this belt.

One of the most unique features is the LF 2L’s secure tool carry system. This is the only belt on the market that advertises an ice axe carry option. The 2.5mm elastic cord is easily cinched down with a cord lock. An additional snap closure secures an ice axe horizontally across the back. This also serves as storage for collapsible trekking poles, eliminating the need to carry them in hand at all times.

The included 650mL flask even has its own innovative flair. While most running flasks are 500mL, Raide increased the volume of its flask to 650mL to fit more securely in the belt. That also provides more hydration capacity. There’s even a locking cap to prevent spilling when pressure is applied to the nozzle while in the belt.

Finally, 3mm thick rigid foam provides structure and rigidity, giving the belt support when fully loaded. This foam has the added benefit of insulating the bottle from your body heat. Four flexible vertical stays provide additional support vertically.

In the Field

I tested the Raide LF 2L on the trails and in the mountains surrounding my home in Anchorage, Alaska. My first testing run involved multiple hours off-trail in the Chugach Mountains. I loaded it up with everything I needed for multiple hours of movement. I brought bars, warm layers, and a headlamp for running in the dark.

The LF 2L was tested over the course of nearly 100 miles on runs between 4 and 5 hours in length. From steep mountain adventures to outings on my local trails, the LF 2L was tested in a variety of conditions and settings.

During those testing runs, I experimented with different aspects of the belt. I compared running with the adjustable straps loose versus tight, as well as using the belt under different loads. This ranged from nearly empty to bursting at the seams with weight and bulk.

I intentionally overloaded the belt to find its limits for mitigating bounce, even when carrying unreasonably dense loads. I also tested this belt running at different intensities to see how different movements affect its performance.

What I Loved

Upon first holding the Raide LF 2L, it was immediately evident that this is a high-quality piece of outdoor equipment. The ripstop material is thick and durable, and the belt itself has a lot of stretch.

After multiple months of testing, I can confidently say that the LF 2L is built to last. I’ve repeatedly stuffed its many pockets to the gills and pushed the stretch fabric to the limit. It always rebounded without showing any signs of stretching out. It is also the most feature-packed and versatile belt of any I’ve ever used.

After nearly 100 miles, it has replaced my vest for everything but the biggest adventures. Its variety of pockets provides ample storage for the necessary fuel and equipment required for runs up to 4 or 5 hours in length without resupply. It has an excellent, no-bounce carry system even while heavily loaded, making it a go-to for carrying lots of gear but without being encumbered by a vest.

Room for Improvement

To me, the biggest detractor for this running belt is the price point. At $150, it is by far the most expensive running belt I’ve come across. It’s the same price (or more expensive) as much larger vests and packs on GearJunkie’s guide to the Best Running Vests and Packs.

In warmer temperatures, I also found the belt to be thick and warm, causing more sweat than anticipated. Compared to other belts on the market, the thick and durable fabric is significantly warmer than smaller belts that are made entirely of mesh. While it’s still more breathable than wearing a running vest, I did notice some increased sweat buildup around the waist and lower back while running in the LF 2L on warmer days.

Raide Research LF 2L Running Belt: Conclusion

The Raide Research LF 2L is a high-capacity running belt designed for moving fast in the mountains. Its volume and bounce-free design make it an extremely capable piece of gear for most daily runs. However, its high price makes it less accessible as a casual option or for those on a budget.

For runners looking for a belt to simply throw a cellphone and some snacks in for your neighborhood jog, this might be overkill. However, if you’re looking for a technical and durable piece of equipment for short runs, day trips, and even alpine strike missions, the price point is well worth it. This is an extremely well-made and thoughtfully designed piece of running gear.

During my inaugural run with the LF 2L, I carried gloves, a buff, a long-sleeve shirt, a wind jacket, a headlamp, multiple bars, and my cellphone, all while still having room for more. Since then, this purpose-built belt has replaced my running vest as my daily driver for running in the Anchorage area.