Active Wear for Diabetes Devices

By: SaRene Brooks

Did you know there are many options to make

carrying a diabetes device easier?

I have raised two boys with type 1 diabetes, educated many insulin users and have several friends who also use pumps and CGMs. This technology is amazing. When my oldest son was diagnosed, CGMs were not readily available and pumps had only basic features compared to today. I remember him being hesitant to get a CGM when they were an option because it was “just one more thing” to have attached to his body. Now his CGM is viewed as a valuable tool to help with his diabetes management. I have heard both of my boys share tips with each other how they manage their pump and tubing while they are sleeping, exercising and just moving about in their daily life.

Years ago, I was having a conversation with a friend. She had had diabetes for about 12 years and was working full-time. As part of her professional attire, she frequently wore a dress. Some of you who are reading this right now may have experienced the same dilemma, “Where do I put my pump?” She showed me a “thigh-band” she had made out of stretchy fabric to hold her pump in place. A note for those who don’t wear a dress, there is no waistband to pull the pump and tubing through and usually no pockets to put it in.

I want to share some ideas with you that I have learned from “the experts”. These come from people living with diabetes who have found ways to manage their tubing while sleeping, wearing a pump when they don’t have pockets and simply navigating life with diabetes devices attached.

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Bands

These are my personal favorite because they are said to be comfortable and can be used for almost any situation. Bands are made of a comfortable stretchy material with a pocket that holds the pump tightly in place. There are a variety of choices including bands for the waist, thigh and upper arm. These are great when you are being active and want your pump to stay secure. The waist bands work particularly well for sleeping. It not only holds the pump but it also keeps your tubing protected. No more wrestling with the tubing when you are trying to get a good night’s rest. It also prevents that awful time when your tubing catches on something as you are walking by.

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Holsters and Cases for Pumps

These have been around for a long time but they are improving in quality and personalization. The holsters are made of a strong thermoplastic material and can hook on a belt or waistband. They work great for someone who wears their shirt tucked in and needs easy access to their pump. It holds the pump securely with no need for pockets. There are companies who will personalize your pump holster which would be a fun addition to your diabetes ensemble. Look for one that holds your specific pump. There are also soft cases that enclose the pump. They have a belt loop for vertical or horizontal use as well as a metal clip to go over a belt.

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Active Wear for Men, Women and Children:

Below are some examples specifically for men, women and children. I recommend you search online where you will find a wide variety of choices.

Men: compression shorts, tank tops and briefs

Women: Leggings, thigh bands, tank tops and compression shorts

Kids: Tank tops, waist bands, compression shorts, underwear

The above items are made in a variety of colors, sizes and truly are very fashionable. Think of how nice it would be to go for a walk or run with your pump securely fastened. One really nice thing is that securing your device in something such as a band or pocket is it decreased the chances of dropping your device or snagging your tubing. This is great for kids and adults alike.

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Tape and Patches:

You may be looking for ideas to hold your tubeless pump, infusio nsite or CGM in place. There is adhesive tape and patches available to fit over specific CGMs the tubeless pumps. They come in clear as well as a variety of fun colors. They are waterproof and sweatproof which would really help for someone who is particularly active. They also work great for the person who has a difficult time getting their CGM, infusion site, or tubeless pump to stick to their skin.

Coban tape is another good solution when you just need to protection for a short time such as during a sporting event. Coban is an elastic-like bandage that comes on a roll. It only sticks to itself. For example, it can be wrapped around the arm, covering the CGM or tubeless pump and then overlap on itself. This provides protection to the device, preventing it from being torn off in the event of contact. It also comes in a variety of colors. It is water-resistant, lightweight, and comfortable.

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Other Options:

Clothing made to hold a cell phone is also an option. These would include running belts, sport bras, tank tops, compression shorts, athletic pants and leggings. Just make sure it will accommodate your pump and tubing.

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Everyone has their own unique situation but hopefully this will give you some ideas of something that will work for YOU.

You may have some ideas of your own and I would sincerely LOVE to hear them.

Please send them to me through the “chat” feature on our website at

Goal Nutrition and Diabetes Specialty.

I am always open to ideas that I can share with others.

SaRene Brooks is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) and Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES). She is a mom of 3 boys who are now married which added 3 girls to her family. 2 of her sons live with type 1 diabetes (T1D). She specializes in helping families who are impacted by type 1 to adjust and make it a part of their everyday life , while enjoying the things they love.

She is the wife of an avid outdoorsman and loves spending time with him in the mountains. She is a grandma, creative cook, educator and loves to help individuals and families meet their health and nutrition goals.