I am a workout junkie and I regularly listen to the music on my iPhone while exercising. Unfortunately, smartphones and other portable music players were not exactly designed with the exacting gym environment in mind, and I always fumble to keep my iPhone close to me while avoiding sweat and all the heavy objects that could damage it. Even the small dedicated “waterproof” pockets in many of the shorts that I use are far from ideal. In my experience a dedicated armband or a pouch is the best option for keeping your smartphone safe and accessible while working out.

This URGE Basics armband is one the most sophisticated and durable sports armband that I’ve come across. The armband is thick and comfortable, and it grips your upper arm very securely. The smartphone pouch is very large, and can fit almost any smartphone on the market right now. I’ve tested it with Galaxy S3 and iPhone 4S. The iPhone that I have actually has a very thick case, and I was still able to put it in. This is probably one of the nicest things about this URGE armband – most armbands are designed with a single device in mind that can only fit in without the protective case. The smartphone case also houses an additional small pocket which can be used to keep a credit card/ID, some cash, keys, or the coiled up headphones when they are not in use. The protective screen is very well made, it’s sweat-proof, and it allows you to still use the touchscreen of your phone. The bottom of the case has a small hidden opening that allows you to run the headphones cord through. In terms of its design, attention to details, and quality of materials this armband is second to none.

A unique feature of this armband is its inclusion of bright LED lights. This is a great idea, and very nice safety feature for people who like to run outdoors, especially in lower visibility. The LED lights run off of two included button cell batteries. The batteries are easy to install and replace, but the battery compartment requires that you use a coin to pry it open. The lights are pretty bright, and although I have only tested them a couple of times, they seem to work as intended. They provide three lighting modes – solid, flicker, and flash. I personally prefer flicker – it seems to grab most attention.

I really like this armband and intend to use it as one of my primary gym accessory from now on. I would recommend it to anyone who doesn’t mind the extra bulk, but especially to the outdoors runners.

**** Product sample provided for review purposes. ****