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Music is a necessity for many of us to get up and get moving. Whether you're lifting weights in the gym or running out in the countryside, workout headphones can give you the push you need to go the extra mile. We tested several sports earbuds from the most popular brands to see which are worth your money.
News and Updates (August 2018)
- We are in the process of reviewing a slew of completely wireless running headphones (think Apple AirPods but sweat-proof) and headphones with voice assistants (like a personal trainer in your ear) to see which is worth buying. In the meantime, check out our reviews of wireless contenders Samsung's Gear IconX and Bose's SoundSport Free, and our review of the first pair of AI voice-coaching headphones, LifeBeam's Vi.
Here are our current favorite earbuds for sports and exercise.
The Sennheiser CX 686G Sports In-Ear Headphones get your head into the game. They boast high-quality audio worthy of the Sennheiser brand, and a slide-to-fit ear-wing design that makes it easy to get a precise, secure fit. At just $69, they're a solid, affordable pair of in-ears that will be your best companion on your next run.
Sennheiser CX 686G Sports
Best Overall Sports Earbuds
The Jabra Sport Coach earbuds do more than just provide the tunes for your workout — they control your workout. Guiding you through preset and customizable sessions, these wireless buds use an audible coach to usher you from one CrossFit move to the next. With at least 4 hours of battery life, these buds will carry you through multiple training sessions, and they have great sound quality to match. If you need some variety in your workout routine, the $149 Jabra Sport Coach makes an excellent personal trainer.
Editor's choice
Jabra Sport Coach
Best Wireless Sport Earbuds
If you don't feel like spending more than $20 on a pair of high-quality, sweat-resistant running headphones, Koss FitClips are the perfect accessory. These ultra-cheap earphones are super comfortable to wear running and also sound great, which is really all you can ask for from a workout companion. The only downside is that you need an adapter to use this wired headset with an iPhone 7.
Editor's choice
Koss FitClips
Best Cheap Running Earbuds (Wired)
It doesn't get any simpler or easier to use than Aukey's Latitude earphones, which are super affordable, easy to set up and offer well-balanced sound with three EQ modes for punching up the treble or bumping up the bass. The Latitudes are also extremely lightweight, which is perfect for running unencumbered.
Editor's choice
Aukey Latitude EP-B40
Best Cheap Running Earbuds (Wireless)
What to Look For
Since you'll be breaking a sweat in these headphones, you'll want to look for water- or sweat-resistant devices. Some simply say they can withstand water and sweat, and some are IP-certified. If you want to know you are protected, look for headphones with at least an IPX7 rating, meaning they're resistant to water and sweat.
You'll also want to look at the design of the headphones and consider how you want to wear them while working out. They should not only be easy to wear, but also stay on your head without the need for constant readjustment. For earbuds, look at how many ear inserts and wings the pair comes with, to give you the best fit option. Some people may prefer over-ear or on-ear headphones because they tend to do a better job of blocking noise, but some prefer earbuds for their secure fit and lightweight portability.
Be sure to check for an inline remote, which will let you easily control your music without pulling out your smartphone. Completely wireless fitness earbuds allow you to control your music with taps on the earpiece rather than a remote. Some headphones are device-specific; make sure you get a pair that's fully compatible with Android and iOS.
If you're considering wireless sport headphones, make sure they have the endurance you need. Some people need headphones with only 6 to 8 hours of battery life to last through a week of workouts, while others might want a device with extended longevity to get through long runs, bike rides and hikes.
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