Finding the perfect pair of headphones for your workout isn’t easy. Anyone who regularly exercises will appreciate the frustration of earphones slipping out, cords getting tangled and fumbling through your pockets to try and change tunes.Those who like to hit the gym may wish to invest in a noise reduction option; meanwhile, those who run outdoors may want to let the sound in so they’re aware of passing traffic. Those who like to work out heavily may look for a sweat-resistant design, while those who jog outdoors may want water-resistance that protects against rain.
There are so many types of headphones on the market that it’s difficult to know which is best suited for you and your workout. However, we have attempted to make the selection process a little easier by listing what we believe are the ten best headphones for workout and why.
10. Philips ActionFit Sports
Philips’ headphones don’t quite provide as high quality as other products on this list. Some users have complained about the earphones not fitting as snug as other options; some have expressed their disappointment at the lack of replacement ear-caps. However, for those on a budget, the Philips ActionFit Sports headphones certainly get the job done. Despite the low price they sound great, look snazzy and are durable against all conditions. (Price: $20)
9. Polk Audio UltraFit 2000
Polk’s UltraFit 2000 headphones provide a solution to many of the problems people have listening to music while working out. They have a moisture shield technology on the surface that is resistant to perspiration and small amounts of rain.
Meanwhile, they fit securely in your ears ensuring they don’t pop out with any sudden movements. The only problem some might have is that those around you will be able to hear your music in a small, quiet environment. But, otherwise, you have a pair of headphones well worth investing in. (Price: $70)
8. Motorola MOTOACTV SF200 Sports
You can work out with no distractions by using Motorola’s gym headphones MOTOACTV SF200. With a built-in microphone, it lets you manage your tunes without having to constantly reach into your pockets and scroll through your mp3 device. They are also one of the best headphones for workout in terms of durability. They can withstand the toughest gym routines with a sweat-proof and resistant design. (Price: $50)
7. Sennheiser Adidas PX 685i Sport
Sennheiser teamed up with the immensely popular sports retailer Adidas for these headphones. Hooking over your ears and featuring a slide-to-fit mechanism, the MX 685 provides a secure fitting for when you are working out. They are a great option for those who like to exercise outdoors too. If rain suddenly begins to pour in the middle of your jog, the headphones have a moisture resistant coating that will protect them. If you’re out in the sweltering sun of summer, the MX 685 also has a sweat resistant finish. (Price: $80)
6. Meelectronics Sport Fi S6
Meelectronics have made their headphones especially for people who enjoy running. Every purchase comes with an armband that is the perfect size for carrying most mp3 players. Once it’s slotted in, the cord is so short that you can plug your headphones into the device and it’ll never get in the way. You can get an extension for the cord if you want to listen to them elsewhere though. The headphones also come with a “memory wire” that conforms to your ear and boasts a noise-insulated design for great audio quality. (Price: $60)
5. Beats By Dr. Dre Powerbeats
Beats have become one of the most popular makes of headphones in the world. There’s a good reason why as well; they are among the best options on the market in terms of sound quality. However, Beats aren’t ideal for working out. The big earmuffs are difficult to transport, they can weigh you down and you’d probably look a little stupid wearing them on a treadmill.
Powerbeats provide the excellent quality of Beats in a simple ear-fitting form. Made specifically for athletes and co-created by LeBron James, they are one of the best headphones for workout. (Price: $120)
4. Yurbuds Inspire Duro
Yurbuds Inspire Duro, created by a 24 time marathoner and triathlete, might not pack as much bass as higher end models. But what they lack in sound quality is made up in comfort and durability. Yurbuds Inspire Duro headphones come with “Twist Lock” technology meaning they fit tightly into your ears and do not fall out—but never without becoming too uncomfortable. They are also resistant to sweat, water and germs. At a modest $50, that’s quite impressive. (Price: $50)
3. Klipsch Image A5i Sport
Most headphones have a habit of slipping out of your ears when you’re working out. They will become loosened by the perspiration or thrown out with any violent movements. What makes the Klipsch model one of the best headphones for workout though is how they fit perfectly (and comfortably) for a very long time. They are designed to fit in and around your ears to ensure they never come out. The Klipsch Image A5i Sport has a sound that is rich and full as well. (Price: $120)
2. JayBird BlueBuds X
Many people who listen to music while working out will appreciate how infuriating cables are. They get in the way, they bounce against your body, and they always end up tangled at the end of it. The thing that makes JayBird BlueBuds X among the best headphones for workout is that it does away with the wires altogether. There is a short string connecting the earbuds, but otherwise this is a completely cordless device. Just connect it to the bluetooth on your smartphone or mp3 player and you are ready to go. You can wear them in whatever way is most comfortable for each particular workout activity. It will last for 8 hours before it needs to be recharged too. (Price: $170)
1. Aftershokz Sportz M2
There is a constant dilemma regarding headphones. Noise-reduction ones block out the sound allowing you to focus on the music, but they also make you unable to hear what’s around you. This is particularly dangerous if you’re running near a busy road. However, ordinary ones that allow outside sound in might impact the quality of the music. Aftershokz Sportz M2 manages to solve this problem. With state-of-the-art technology, these headphones don’t rest in or over your ears; they fit comfortably to your cheekbone through and project to your inner-ear. You won’t miss anything your friends at the gym may be saying and your music will sound awesome at the same time. Aftershokz Sportz M2 are also the best headphones for workout because of their long battery life of around 12 hours and ability to control volume and music through the headset without having to reach for your mp3 player. (Price: $120)
Featured photo credit: Sascha Kohlmann via flickr.com
