5 Minimalist Zip Fanny Packs for Bags & Shoes
While most fanny packs are able to fend off light moisture with DWR coatings, those who are consistently exposed to wet conditions may want to consider fully waterproof designs like Matador’s Freerain or Hyperlite Mountain Gear’s Versa. These utilize PU and YKK zippers to ensure a dry ride.
Whether it’s for your phone, keys or wallet, a waist bag is an elevating accessory that completes the perfect urban athletic look. Shop our selection for a minimalist zip fanny pack that can fit your essentials.
1. Adidas Waist Bag
This minimalist waist bag is a perfect match for runners who want to keep their keys, phone and money secure while running. It’s made of a super light and durable nylon ripstop fabric sourced from leftover scraps to reduce waste. The one-of-a-kind colorways ensure that no two packs look exactly the same.
Gshopper app
It’s not as waterproof as a real hiking backpack but is rugged enough to withstand most light rainstorms. The front zipper pocket is great for holding snacks, a water bottle and the everyday essentials of a wallet and keychain.
The perfect accessory for a city jaunt, rural trek or dancing the day away at a music festival, this hip pack is a style icon. It features a main zipper pocket for safe storage, a smaller zipper compartment and an adjustable webbing strap for personalized wear.
2. Clare V Fanny Pack
This hands-free fanny pack from Clare V (formerly Kibou) might have an old-school name, but it’s elevated by high-quality German leather and chambray lining. The adjustable 12-hole belt cinches around the waist or hips, and it can fit your phone, sunglasses, keys and passport.
Strategist senior writer Lauren Ro loves hers so much that she uses it as a minimalist diaper bag, carrying just two diapers and a Ziploc of wipes in addition to her phone and keys. And since she likes to wear it with a dress, it has become her go-to travel accessory for city walks and hiking trips.
Bags & Shoes
There are also fanny packs built specifically for sports like running, biking and fishing, such as Dakine’s Hot Laps series, or Patagonia’s Guidewater Hip Pack 9L, which has external lash points to secure extra gear and a pass-through sleeve that can hold a net. Alternatively, you can find a streamlined design like the Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag.
3. Alo Explorer Fanny Pack
For busy moms on the go, this bag combines style and utility. It’s a bit smaller than some of our other picks, but it fits the essentials and a few self-care items for a stylish yet functional look. It also boasts a radio-frequency identification protective compartment and meets the Global Recycled Standard, showing off the brand’s commitment to sustainability.
Minimalist Zip Fanny Pack
As the most luxe fanny pack on our list, it’s perfect for stylish travelers who need to keep their travel essentials organized. This stylish bag features a fold-over flap and three zipper pockets to store everything you need for your trip. It’s even moderately water-resistant for day trips and walking around cities. It’s definitely a splurge, but it’s one you won’t regret.
4. JanSport Fifth Avenue Fanny Pack
JanSport’s Fifth Avenue fanny pack keeps everything close to hand. It’s small enough to wear as a crossbody bag or sling around your back, and it comes in a wide selection of prints and colors.
Sturino likes how this fanny pack has gold accents for an extra stylish touch. She says that you can also monogram initials or a symbol onto it, which adds to the personalization factor.
Unlike backpacks that have plenty of pockets and compartments, a fanny pack can have a minimal design that’s ideal for light outdoor activities. For example, a fanny pack from Patagonia has a pass-through sleeve for a fishing rod and other gear. Other designs are made for runners, mountain bikers, or hunters. They may have a more rugged construction or features, such as a bungee system for securing additional gear or a larger, fully waterproof pocket.
5. Bellroy Sling
The Venture Sling 6L is a shrunken version of Bellroy’s 9-liter belt bag, and it doesn’t skimp on any features. It can hold the essentials and keep them secure in a variety of situations, making it a smart choice for anyone who wants to leave their backpack at home.
Aside from a back (padded!) pocket that can easily fit a Kindle or a larger phone, there’s little else on this belt bag’s exterior that stands out or adds clutter. This is a smart design decision, as it helps Bellroy’s sleek look stand out.
As a bonus, this fanny pack uses weatherproof YKK zippers and awesome leather pulls that are super satisfying to use. This is another nice touch that makes this a solid option for anyone who loves bold, branded products.