SwimCell Waterproof Key Holder Arm Band (Black)

£16.99

When it comes to water sports or even just going for a run, knowing where to leave your keys can be a big problem. I can leave my phone and my other precious belongings in my car, but then finding somewhere on your outfit to put your car keys can be an issue – especially if you don’t have a zippable pocket. For running, I’ve often opted for a small running bag or vest, where I can throw my keys and essentials to keep my hands free. However, this can feel a bit bulky, especially when the weather is warm. Therefore, I was interested to see how an arm band holder would work, as often I’ve worried they would slip down when moving.

The arm band I tested was the SwimCell Waterproof Key Holder Arm Band in black, which features a clear, waterproof pocket where you can keep your keys and even a card. This waterproof pocket then connects to a soft material arm band, which sits around your bicep. The pocket features SwimCell’s patented twist lock design, ensuring that everything inside is kept super secure and cannot be easily undone even with a lot of movement. The pocket is therefore IPX8 waterproofed, the highest possible rating you can get.

The pocket provides plenty of space for my keys, and I could easily fit both my house key and car key inside. I liked that the armband even comes with a key cover, which you can place over particularly pointy keys to stop them from breaking through the plastic pocket, which would make it no longer waterproof and could risk other things falling out. Whilst the plastic does feel super durable, this extra touch to protect the pocket from your keys harming it is a good idea. However, I’d have liked to see a few more key covers included with the arm band, as my keys have a few different ones on them, and I’d have liked to use the covers on them all. But you can purchase additional Silicone Key Blade Covers from SwimCell for multiple keys.

The arm band attaches to a Velcro adjustable arm band, which felt super soft when wearing. The band comes with an extra bit of fabric inside that extends to cover the buckle, which makes it more comfortable to wear and helps prevent skin irritation. The band can be adjusted from a 20cm circumference to a 38cm circumference to accommodate most arm widths. However, SwimCell also offer XXL armband straps if a larger circumference is needed. The armband strap was relatively easy to put on and adjust to the right size. I did have to try and few different tightness options, as I realised quite quickly after starting a run it wasn’t tight enough and started to slip down my arm. However, after a few adjustments, I found the right tightness, which made it stay in place well and hold my keys whilst I was running.

I didn’t mind the armband design for running, as it meant I was pretty hands-free and didn’t have the bulk of other key-holding options I’ve tried. However, the armband can also be used on the ankle or wrist if the bicep isn’t ideal for you, but for me, these felt a little more distracting. My only complaint would be that the arm band is quite thick and so can get a bit sweaty, and doesn’t dry super fast. Whilst this isn’t too much of a worry on my shorter runs, I do worry that for longer runs, or activities such as paddleboarding, swimming and surfing, where it is likely to get wet more often, it could become a little uncomfortable and weighty to wear. However, one of the benefits of the armband set is that it also includes a lanyard, so you can wear the waterproof pocket around your neck instead. This is great for activities where you think the armband design might not be as useful, whilst giving versatility to the use of the waterproof pocket.

Overall, the Waterproof Key Holder Arm Band is a good option for holding your keys and personal belongings that you want to keep safe from water, sweat or from dropping them during more physical activities. I like the included key covers and appreciate the overall functionality of the armband design. If you’re on the hunt for a key-holding solution, it's definitely worth giving the Waterproof Key Holder Arm Band from SwimCell a go.

Pros:

• Highest rating waterproofed pocket to protect your keys and personal belongings inside
• Includes key covers to protect the pocket from damage
• Soft and adjustable arm band to get the perfect fit for comfortable wear
• Available in 4 colours (black, blue, orange and white)

Cons:

• The arm band is quite thick and doesn’t dry fast, which may not make it ideal for situations where it will get wet intentionally