Top workout headphones per personal trainers

To identify the best headphones for working out, we consulted Sherman and other fitness experts like Maggi Gao, NASM CPT, and Chloe Bardos, CFSC and CPT.

They advised on what shoppers should look for when choosing their next pair of workout headphones. Additionally, we considered headphones we commonly use during workouts.

Our Picks for the Best Headphones for Working Out

Best Wireless Earbuds for Working Out

Beats Powerbeats PRO Wireless Earbuds

For those seeking wireless earbuds that stay secure during workouts, Sherman recommends the Powerbeats PRO Wireless Earbuds from Beats, which are also featured on our list of the best running earbuds.

"These are my all-time favorite gym headphones," she says.

"They hook over your ear, combining the best features of headphones and earbuds. They are super secure, offer great sound quality, and provide enough noise cancellation to block out some of the gym's background noise."

They also boast up to nine hours of battery life per earbud and remain secure even for heavy sweaters, thanks to their water-resistant IPX4 rating.

Specifications:

• Headphone type: Earbuds
  
  
• Battery life: Up to nine hours per earbud
  
  
• Water-resistant: Yes (IPX4)
  
  
• Noise-canceling: No
  
  
• Return policy: Free returns in unused and new condition within 30 days (Amazon) and within 30 days (Target)
  
  
• Warranty: Warranty card
  
  
• Price at publication: $199.95
  
  

What we like:

• Batteries last up to nine hours per earbud
  
  
• Sweat-resistant
  
  
• Secure fit
  
  
• Adjustable ear hooks
  
  

What we don’t like:

• Bulky charging case
  
  

The bottom line:

While their charging case is bulky, Sherman recommends these wireless earbuds for their high-quality sound and support, thanks to adjustable hooks.

Best Budget Headphones for Working Out

KVIDIO Bluetooth Over-Ear Headphones

The KVIDIO Bluetooth Over-Ear Headphones are my go-to for working out, which I do three times a week.

Beyond their affordable price, I appreciate that they only need charging once a week or so. Although lightweight at 0.44 pounds, they remain securely on my head unless I move vigorously.

While they don't completely block external noise, they deliver crisp audio quality without causing ear discomfort, thanks to memory foam ear muffs that fold inward for easy storage in my gym bag.

Specifications:

• Headphone type: Over-ear headphones
  
  
• Battery life: Up to 65 hours
  
  
• Water-resistant: Not listed
  
  
• Noise-canceling: Yes (with noise isolation technology)
  
  
• Return policy: Free returns within 30 days of purchase (Amazon)
  
  
• Warranty: Not listed
  
  
• Price at publication: $27.99
  
  

What we like:

• Quick charging time
  
  
• Available in various colors
  
  
• Lightweight
  
  
• Foldable design
  
  

What we don’t like:

• May take a minute to connect
  
  

The bottom line:

Despite their lower price point, these headphones are ideal for gym-goers due to their lightweight design and foldability.

Best Headphones for All Kinds of Workouts

Senso Bluetooth Wireless Sports Earbuds

When it comes to the best headphones for various workouts, the Senso Bluetooth Wireless Sports Earbuds are my top pick.

I’ve used these earbuds for both cardio and strength training workouts, and aside from the occasional delay in connecting to my phone via Bluetooth, they’ve been flawless.

If noise cancellation is a priority for your workout headphones, these are a great option.

They feature CVC 6.0 noise-suppression technology, which effectively blocks outside noise.

While I don’t usually take calls during workouts, this noise-suppression technology makes answering calls through the earbuds' microphone a breeze without switching settings.

Additionally, I appreciate that the earbuds are connected by a cable, making it easier to keep track of them.

Specifications:

• Headphone Type: Earbuds
  
  
• Battery Life: Up to eight hours
  
  
• Water-resistant: Yes (IPX7)
  
  
• Noise-canceling: Yes (CVC 6.0 noise-suppression technology)
  
  
• Return Policy: Free returns within 30 days of purchase (Amazon)
  
  
• Warranty: One-year manufacturer's warranty
  
  
• Price at Publish: $24.96
  
  

Pros:

• High waterproof rating
  
  
• Includes carrying case
  
  
• Soft gel tips
  
  
• Easy to turn on and off
  
  

Cons:

• Can take longer to connect via Bluetooth
  
  

The Bottom Line:

These earbuds will keep your music going for up to eight hours during any workout. The cable connecting the two pieces ensures you won’t lose them.

Best noise canceling over-ear headphones for working out

JBL Tour One M2 Wireless Over-Ear Noise Canceling Headphones

For those who need complete silence or prefer listening to music while working out, the JBL Tour One M2 Wireless Over-Ear Noise Canceling Headphones are ideal.

"The noise canceling feature is incredible," says Sherman. "You can only hear your music, making it perfect for staying in the zone during workouts."

With up to 50 hours of playtime, you won’t have to worry about distractions interrupting your exercise routine.

Specifications:

• Headphone Type: Over-ear headphones
  
  
• Battery Life: Up to 50 hours
  
  
• Water-resistant: No
  
  
• Noise-canceling: Yes
  
  
• Return Policy: 30 days
  
  
• Warranty: Limited hardware warranty
  
  
• Price at Publish: $299.95
  
  

Pros:

• Includes carrying case
  
  
• Four microphones
  
  
• Adaptive noise cancellation
  
  

Cons:

• Expensive
  
  

The Bottom Line:

These over-ear headphones are perfect for those who prefer a quiet workout environment, offering adaptive noise-canceling features.

Best bone conduction headphones for working out

SHOKZ OpenRun Open-Ear Bluetooth Bone Conduction Sport Headphones

SHOKZ’s bone conduction headphones are an excellent choice for workouts. With their open-ear design, they are ideal for outdoor workouts or situations where you need to stay aware of your surroundings.

“They’re low-profile, comfortable, and provide clear music,” says Gao. “I like using them for runs or bike rides so I can stay alert to my surroundings.”

Though not suitable for swimming, these headphones have an IP67 rating, making them sweat and rain-resistant.

Specifications:

• Headphone Type: Bone conduction
  
  
• Battery Life: 8 hours
  
  
• Water-resistant: Yes (IP67)
  
  
• Noise-canceling: Yes
  
  
• Return Policy:
  
  
• Free returns within 30 days (Walmart)
  
  
• 15 days (Best Buy)
  
  
• Free returns if unused and in new condition within 30 days (Amazon)
  
  
• Warranty: Manufacturer’s two-year warranty (parts)
  
  
• Price at Publish: $129.95
  
  

Pros:

• Built-in microphone
  
  
• IP67 rating
  
  
• Moisture detection alert when charging
  
  
• Includes charging cable
  
  

Cons:

• Can only pair from 33 feet or fewer away
  
  

The Bottom Line:

Although they offer a shorter battery life, Gao recommends these bone conduction headphones for their open-ear design, which promotes awareness during workouts.

Best Headphones for the Gym

Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Premium Noise-Canceling Overhead Headphones

If you're looking for durable headphones to last through any length of workout, consider the Sony WH-1000XM4.

These over-ear headphones, listed among the best headphones of 2024, offer an impressive battery life of up to 30 hours.

Gao praises their exceptional noise-canceling abilities, courtesy of their Dual Noise Sensor technology.

Plus, they're Alexa-compatible, allowing you to control your music and messages hands-free.

Specifications:

• Type: Over-ear headphones
  
  
• Battery Life: Up to 30 hours
  
  
• Water-Resistant: No
  
  
• Noise-Canceling: Yes (Dual Noise Sensor)
  
  
• Return Policy:
  
  
• Free returns within 30 days if unused (Amazon)
  
  
• Within 14 days (Best Buy)
  
  
• Warranty: One-year warranty (Walmart and Best Buy)
  
  
• Price at Publish: $278.00
  
  

Pros:

• Compatible with Alexa voice control
  
  
• Equipped with Dual Noise Sensor technology
  
  
• Touch controls
  
  

Cons:

• Higher price tag
  
  

Bottom Line:

These over-ear headphones are a worthwhile investment for their noise-canceling capabilities and comfort.

Best Headphones for Running

JBL Reflect Aero TWS Earbuds

For runners seeking new headphones, Bardos suggests the JBL Reflect Aero TWS Earbuds.

They feature an adjustable active noise-canceling setting, allowing you to control how much ambient noise you hear.

"It's crucial to be able to hear your surroundings while doing outdoor sports, so the ability to turn off noise cancellation is important," says Bardos. Each earbud includes three microphones, making it easier to take calls hands-free.

Despite not having ear hooks, their oval tube design ensures they stay in place. They're also dust- and waterproof, suitable for running in adverse weather conditions.

Specifications:

• Type: Earbuds
  
  
• Battery Life: 8 hours (7 hours with active noise-canceling)
  
  
• Water-Resistant: Yes (IP68)
  
  
• Noise-Canceling: Yes
  
  
• Return Policy:
  
  
• Within 30 days (B&H)
  
  
• Free returns within 30 days if unused (Amazon)
  
  
• Warranty: Limited one-year manufacturer warranty
  
  
• Price at Publish: $149.95
  
  

Pros:

• Adjustable active noise-canceling
  
  
• Quick charge (four hours of battery in 15 minutes)
  
  
• Three microphones per earbud
  
  

Cons:

• No ear hooks
  
  

Bottom Line:

Runners will appreciate these water-resistant JBL earbuds with adjustable noise-canceling and robust design.

Best Over-Ear Headphones for Working Out

Raycon Wireless Over-Ear Headphones

For those wanting over-ear headphones that maintain situational awareness, consider the Raycon Wireless Over-Ear Headphones.

While they feature advanced noise-cancellation technology, they also offer an "Awareness" mode, allowing you to stay alert to your surroundings.

Specifications:

• Type: Over-ear headphones
  
  
• Battery Life: Up to 45 hours
  
  
• Water-Resistant: Yes (IPX4)
  
  
• Noise-Canceling: Yes (active noise-canceling)
  
  
• Return Policy:
  
  
• Free returns within 30 days (Amazon)
  
  
• Within 30 days (Raycon)
  
  
• Warranty: One-year limited warranty
  
  
• Price at Publish: $119.99
  
  

Pros:

• "Awareness" mode
  
  
• Interchangeable cushions
  
  
• Connect to two devices simultaneously
  
  

Cons:

• Must manually turn off via a side button
  
  

Bottom Line:

These Raycon headphones are perfect for athletes who need to stay focused on their workout while being aware of their surroundings.

Best Headphones for Apple Users

Apple AirPods Pro 2nd Generation

Gao highly recommends the Apple AirPods Pro 2nd Generation for Apple users.

"They offer excellent connectivity, come with various earbud sizes for a better fit, and deliver great sound quality," says Gao.

"You can also toggle between noise-canceling and surround sound settings." Their top-tier sound quality makes them my go-to choice for strength training workouts.

Specifications:

• Type: Earbuds
  
  
• Battery Life:
  
  
• Up to 6 hours without case
  
  
• Up to 30 hours with case
  
  
• Water-Resistant: Yes (IP54)
  
  
• Noise-Canceling: Yes
  
  
• Return Policy:
  
  
• 14 days (Best Buy)
  
  
• Free returns within 30 days if unused (Amazon)
  
  
• Within 14 days (Apple)
  
  
• Warranty: One-year limited warranty
  
  
• Price at Publish: $239.99
  
  

Pros:

• Multiple earbud sizes
  
  
• IP54 rating for both AirPods and case
  
  
• High sound quality
  
  

Cons:

• Shorter battery life
  
  

Bottom Line:

Gao recommends these AirPods for their excellent sound quality and versatile settings, making them suitable for various environments.

Best Budget Wireless Earbuds for Working Out

 JLab Go Air Sport Wireless Workout Earbuds

If you're searching for affordable wireless earbuds for your workout sessions, the JLab Go Air Sport Wireless Earbuds might be the perfect fit.

Priced at just $24, these earbuds offer up to 32 hours of playtime and are water-resistant with an IP55 rating.

Unlike some other options, these earbuds come with extra sets of gel tips for cleanliness or replacement.

Specifications:

• Headphone type: Earbuds
  
  
• Battery life: 32 hours of playtime
  
  
• Water-resistant: Yes (IP55)
  
  
• Noise-canceling: No
  
  
• Return policy: Free returns within 30 days if unused and in new condition (Amazon) and free returns within 30 days (JLab)
  
  
• Warranty: Two-year warranty
  
  
• Price on publish: $29.88
  
  

Pros:

• Affordable
  
  
• Includes three sets of gel tips
  
  
• Comes with a charging case
  
  
• Wireless
  
  

Cons:

• Lacks active noise cancellation
  
  

Bottom Line:

At under $30, these earbuds are an excellent choice for those seeking budget-friendly workout headphones.

What to Consider When Choosing Headphones for Working Out

Features

When selecting headphones for workouts, it's crucial to pay attention to features.

One of the most important is water and sweat resistance.

This ensures that your headphones remain secure and functional during intense workouts without risk of damage.

The IP (Ingress Protection) rating is key; for workouts in rainy conditions or heavy sweating, look for IP ratings with the last digit as close to eight as possible, indicating better water/liquid resistance.

Another important feature is battery life. Ideal headphones offer long battery life with short charge times.

Battery life varies by settings, but top workout headphones typically range from six to 50 hours of playtime.

Some even come with charging cases, extending their usage without requiring frequent recharges.

Sound Quality

Sound quality is non-negotiable, whether you prefer wired or wireless headphones.

High-quality sound enhances your workout experience by allowing you to focus more on the music rather than struggling with poor audio.

Many workout headphones, like the Lab Go Air Sport Wireless Workout Earbuds, come with multiple sound settings, including enhanced bass.

Top workout headphones also feature multiple microphones on each earpiece, enabling seamless call answering and messaging without needing to pick up your phone.

Design

Design is a significant factor when choosing workout headphones.

Earbuds with adjustable hooks are preferable for secure fitting, especially during running or high-movement exercises.

Consider ease of cleaning, especially if you frequently sweat or use them at the gym.

Some headphones come with interchangeable muffs or tips, which are useful for maintaining hygiene. If not, consider purchasing extra sets.

For those who travel with their headphones, especially over-ear types, consider their weight and whether they can be folded or come with a carrying case.

How We Selected the Best Headphones for Working Out

To compile our list of the best workout headphones, we consulted fitness trainers on essential factors such as features, sound quality, and design.

We also conducted online research, examining product specifications and customer reviews.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it Better to Work Out With Headphones or Earbuds?

Whether to use headphones or earbuds depends on personal preference and the nature of your workout.

"You may want to opt for headphones during especially sweaty sessions like cardio, where earbuds might slip," says Sherman.

"But if you're lifting weights, earbuds may offer a more secure fit as you move through various exercises."

Are Wired or Wireless Earphones Better for the Gym?

When it comes to choosing between wired and wireless earphones for the gym, it really boils down to personal preference.

Many individuals, including myself, find that wireless headphones enhance the workout experience.

They eliminate the hassle of detangling wires and reduce the risk of accidentally disconnecting from your device or getting caught on gym equipment.

If you prefer wired earphones, Sherman suggests using an armband to securely hold your phone and keep the earphone wire out of your way.

Which Headphones are Good for Sweat?

For workouts, it's essential to choose headphones that are sweat- and water-resistant.

This information is usually available in the product specifications or can be confirmed by contacting the brand or retailer.

Sherman advises considering headphones with removable, washable covers to protect the headphones and maintain clean, clear skin.

Is it Safe to Wear Earbuds While Running?

Wearing earbuds while running can be safe, depending on your environment and the safety features of the earbuds.

We recommend opting for a pair with an "Awareness" mode, such as the Raycon Wireless Over-Ear Headphones.

This feature allows you to stay alert to your surroundings while enjoying your music, podcast, or other audio content.

 

Source: time

The opinions shared in the GymNation blog articles are solely those of the respective authors and may not represent the perspectives of GymNation or any member of the GymNation team.