Packlite Belt

Your Best-Fitting Running Belt

The Packlite Belt is a precision-fit, low-profile running band designed for both long trail efforts and everyday training runs. This MYOG pattern includes two optimized variations:

• Trail Belt: A full-featured belt with a removable foam back panel for added structure and soft flask support, ideal for long outings and variable terrain.
• Training Belt: A streamlined option without the foam insert, slightly narrower at the back for comfort and simplicity during daily runs.

Made for athletes who value comfort, performance, and minimal bounce, the Packlite Belt is constructed from technical stretch fabrics like Lycra mesh or wicking knits such as Polartec Power Dry. It sits comfortably against the skin and can be worn discreetly under a t-shirt or over a light layer, supporting any distance with minimal bulk.

Features

• Custom-fit sizing in 1" increments from 28" to 40" (71 to 102cm) waist for secure, bounce-free performance
• Two distinct belt styles: full-featured Trail Belt and simplified Training Belt
• Curved, anatomical shape conforms to the body for a secure, ergonomic fit
• Foam back panel (Trail Belt) improves structure and comfort while carrying a soft flask
• Breathable, moisture-wicking stretch fabric construction for next-to-skin comfort
• Sits flat under a shirt to prevent shifting, sagging, or chafing
• Multiple front and rear storage zones for phone, soft flask, nutrition, and small essentials
• Accessory webbing loops to secure a jacket or poles with additional shock cord

• Fully Illustrated Instructions: Step-by-step construction guidance for both belt variations
• Precision-Drafted Patterns: Includes 12 sizes for a tailored fit, evenly graded in 1" (2.5cm) increments
• Two Variations Included: Trail Belt with foam panel and Training Belt for everyday runs
• Multiple Print Options:
  • Print at home on 8.5"x11" (Letter) or A4 paper
  • Large-format print shop files: 36"x48" or A0
  • A0 PDF is projector-friendly, tested for PatternProjector.com compatibility
• Colored & Layered Sizing: Unique line styles for each size, with layers for printing only the sizes you need
• Seam Allowances Included: Patterns are ready to sew with clearly labeled allowances and construction notes

With clean grading and comprehensive instructions, this pattern offers a rewarding make for intermediate sewists looking to elevate their running gear.

Trail-Ready Combo: Purchase the Packlite Vest, get this Packlite Belt pattern free. Limited time only!!
Already purchased Packlite Vest? Game on. Find the discount code in your email.

$10

All LearnMYOG patterns are for personal, non-commercial use only.

As always, if you have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re here to help!

Sewing Skill Level – Confident Beginner

The Packlite Belt is a great project for confident beginners looking to expand their skills with technical fabrics. With modest materials and minimal sewing, it’s a rewarding make that teaches essential techniques for stretch performance gear.

You’ll sew with stretch mesh and lightweight wicking fabrics, apply fold-over elastic (FOE) for clean edges, and reinforce high-stress areas with bartacks. A zigzag stitch on a basic domestic sewing machine is all you need. A walking foot attachment helps feed layers more smoothly, but it’s not required. A serger can speed up construction, though it’s completely optional.

This pattern is approachable with patience and preparation. It’s a great step toward making your own high-performance running gear.

Fabrics & Notions

The Packlite Belt is to be sewn with knit fabrics with 30-40% stretch. This section provides a quick overview of what's required. Full details, yardage charts, and vendor links are included in the pattern download.

• Belt Mesh Fabric (1 yd): Lycra Stretch Mesh or Power Mesh
• Breathable, Wicking Shell (1 yd): Breathable, moisture wicking performance 30-40% stretch fabric that is comforable against the skin. Polartec Power Dry, knit jersey, "dry fit" tshirt fabric, etc. A well-loved race tshirt is a great option.
• Notions:
  • 3 yds of 3/4 - 1" (20-25mm) Fold Over Elastic (FOE) for belt binding.
  • 1/2 yds of 3/8" webbing for pull and attachment loops
  • 3-4mm Closed Cell Foam sheet approximately 12" x 5" (30.5 x 12.7 cm)
  • Plastic KAM snap for the optional rear pocket securing snap
  • Mitten hook for the optional key loop

Suggested needle and thread pairing for this project is:

• 🪡 Ball or Stretch 80/12 needles
• 🧵 Gutermann MARA 100 - 70 Tex 35-40 polyester thread

Bottle Compatibility You Can Trust

With support from HydraPak, this belt was tested using a range of off-the-shelf, belt-compatible soft flasks to ensure secure fit and easy access. The rear pocket accommodates bottles up to 10" (25 cm) tall, and are optimized for the following HydraPak models:

• SoftFlask Speed 500 mL
• UltraFlask+ 500 mL
• UltraFlask Speed 500 mL