Which Hands-Free Dog Belt Should I Choose?
A hands-free dog belt is an ideal accessory for South Africans who love walking, running, or even hiking with their dogs across the country’s scenic landscapes. These belts allow you to move freely without needing to hold onto a leash, making outings more enjoyable for both you and your dog.
Choosing the right belt depends on the activities you and your dog enjoy together. Whether you’re out for a daily walk, a hike in the Drakensberg, or a trail run, the belt should be ergonomically designed, adjustable, and able to absorb the force of a pulling dog. A well-designed belt will transfer the pulling force across a broader area, which is easier on your back.
How Should a Belt Fit?
Even though they’re often called “waist belts,” the best belts for running, hiking, and other activities with dogs should sit lower on your body. This position helps distribute force over your hips and lower back, which is crucial for keeping comfortable and preventing injuries, especially if you have a large or energetic dog.
We recommend belts with leg straps, which help keep the belt secure and prevent it from sliding around. Most of our belts come with detachable leg straps, allowing you to use them with or without the straps, depending on your preference.
Belts for Walking and Hiking
The Trekking Belt 2.0
Perfect for everyday walks or light hikes, the Trekking Belt 2.0 is a versatile, padded option suitable for most activities. You can even use it for a jog or short hikes with your dog. It has convenient loops on the sides for attaching items like waste bags. If you need extra space, add the Belt Bag, which provides room for essentials such as a water bottle, snacks, and your phone.
The Ferd Belt
For the more adventurous South African dog owner, the Ferd Belt offers a durable, high-performance option. This belt is great for longer hikes and outdoor excursions where you need robust equipment. Designed to distribute pulling force evenly, it features a secure carabiner for attaching your dog’s line, rated to handle up to 300 kg, making it ideal if you have a strong or large dog. It also has attachment points for extra gear, such as a pulk for heavy loads, and loops for lighter items.
The Trail Light Belt
Ideal for versatile use, the Trail Light Belt suits both hiking and running, with or without your dog attached. It includes multiple pockets for essentials like snacks, a phone, or a mini first-aid kit. Its lightweight HexiVent padding ensures ventilation, making it comfortable on warm South African days.
Running Belts
The CaniX Belt and CaniX Belt Pro
For dog owners who love to run, especially if you’re training for canicross or competitive events, the CaniX Belt and its pro version offer excellent support. Designed to promote proper running technique while minimizing strain, these belts allow your dog’s leash to glide freely along a carabiner, ensuring even pressure on both hips. The Pro model is stripped down for competition, featuring a lighter and more breathable design.
Trail Light Belt
Also suitable for trail running, the Trail Light Belt has five pockets to carry everything you’ll need without requiring a vest or backpack. This belt is perfect for carrying essentials while keeping your dog securely attached.
Skiing Belts (for Adventurous Trips)
The Løype Belt
If you’re planning on snow excursions or have access to skiing, the Løype Belt is the top choice. Co-designed with athletes, it’s perfect for skijoring (cross-country skiing with dogs), allowing free hip movement and smooth control. It also has a quick-release snap hook for added security and HexiVent padding for comfort.
For a versatile skiing belt that doubles as a hiking companion, The Ferd Belt is another great option, with robust padding and D-rings for pulka attachment, perfect for multi-day trips.
Why Choose Non-Stop Dogwear?
Since 2009, we’ve developed high-quality gear for active dogs and their owners. Our gear is tested with professional athletes to meet durability and comfort standards. We’re proud to be the world’s first pet brand to become a bluesign® SYSTEM PARTNER, ensuring that our materials are sustainably sourced.
Our belts, harnesses, and gear are made with long-lasting materials and come with spare parts, allowing for years of use. We also donate used gear to shelters and youth athletes, supporting dogs and communities in need.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use the same belt for multiple activities?
Yes, but for optimal performance, use a belt designed for the specific activity. - Which belt is best for strong dogs?
The Ferd Belt, with its durable materials and 300 kg rated carabiner, is the best choice for dogs with strong pulling power. - How do I find the right size?
Measure your hip circumference and check the size finder on our product page. - Can my partner and I use the same belt?
Yes, our belts are adjustable to fit different sizes. - Can I attach a Belt Bag?
The Belt Bag is compatible with the Trekking Belt 2.0 and the Ferd Belt.
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