If you’ve been a runner for any amount of time, you’ve probably come across FlipBelt once or twice. I don’t know if this is entirely accurate, but my memory (which admittedly isn’t what it used to be) says FlipBelt was one of the first brands I encountered that was solely focused on streamlining the running belt. I’m pretty sure it was also the first running belt I owned that didn’t feel like some bulky, bouncing monstrosity.
Times have changed, and the market has evolved. Plenty of running brands now offer their own takes on the running belt—and many of them are quite good. Still, FlipBelt remains near the top of the category, backed by years of experience and a product that helped define the space.
But FlipBelt hasn’t stood still. In recent years, they’ve started expanding beyond belts and into broader running apparel. That includes shorts and pants with their signature storage system built in—and now, outerwear and tops as well. We recently got our hands on the Durango Softshell Jacket, a long-sleeve option that marks another step into that expanded lineup.
The Durango Softshell Jacket checks a lot of the boxes you’d want for those in-between conditions, starting with a DWR-treated shell that sheds light rain and cuts wind without feeling overly heavy. The athletic, low-bulk cut layers easily and stays out of the way, whether you’re running solo or throwing it under a hydration vest for longer efforts.
I do wish it was a little longer in the hem, but I do have a longer torso so this is constantly an issue for me anyways.
A few smaller details round things out in a smart way:
- Adjustable hem cinch to lock in warmth without getting in the way of gear access
- Thumb loop cuffs to keep sleeves in place and add a bit of hand coverage
- Integrated watch window for quick mid-run checks
It’s a thoughtful mix of protection, mobility, and just enough added functionality where it counts. And just as importantly—it looks good doing it. The Snow colorway in particular brings a clean, understated look that feels a bit more polished than your typical run layer, making it just as easy to wear out the door as it is mid-run.
At first glance, it’s a little funny to see a company called “FlipBelt” making apparel that doesn’t actually include a belt. But does that really matter? Not at all. As long as a brand sticks to its core ethos—making thoughtful, high-quality gear—the name on the label becomes secondary. A running shoe company could be called anything at all, but if the product delivers, that’s what counts.
And with the Durango Softshell Jacket, FlipBelt has put together something that feels like a strong step in that direction.
