8 best headphones for runners

Headphones for runners are specially designed to provide a comfortable and secure audio experience while you're on the move. These earbud headphones cater to the specific needs and challenges of running. Here's what you should know:

  1. In-Ear Design (Earbuds):

    • Earbud headphones are the preferred choice for runners due to their compact and lightweight design. They fit snugly in the ear canal and are less likely to fall out during physical activity.
  2. Wireless Connectivity:

    • Wireless Bluetooth headphones are highly recommended for runners. They eliminate the need for tangled wires and offer freedom of movement without the risk of accidentally disconnecting from your device.
  3. Comfort and Fit:

    • A secure and comfortable fit is crucial when selecting earbud headphones for running. Look for headphones that come with multiple ear tip sizes and secure-fit options to ensure they stay in place during your runs.
    • Some models offer ear hooks or wings that help keep the earbuds securely in your ears, even during intense workouts.
  4. Sweat and Water Resistance:

    • Given that running can lead to perspiration, it's essential to choose headphones that are sweat and water-resistant. Look for headphones with an IPX rating to ensure they can handle moisture without damage.
  5. Durability:

    • Since runners often face varying weather conditions and may accidentally drop their headphones, it's a good idea to select a durable pair that can withstand some rough handling.
  6. Battery Life:

    • Consider the battery life of your headphones, especially if you plan on using them for long-distance runs. Longer battery life ensures you won't run out of power during your workout.
  7. Sound Quality:

    • While many runners prioritize comfort and stability, sound quality is still important. Look for headphones that offer a balanced sound profile so you can enjoy your music while running.
    • Some models have features like noise isolation or noise cancellation to help you stay focused on your run.
  8. Safety Considerations:

    • When running outdoors, it's important to maintain situational awareness for safety reasons. Some headphones feature ambient sound modes that allow you to hear your surroundings while listening to music.
  9. Controls and Convenience:

    • Look for headphones with easy-to-access on-ear or on-bud controls for adjusting volume, changing tracks, and taking calls without needing to reach for your phone.
  10. Portability:

    • Compact and portable earbud headphones are ideal for runners who want to carry them in a pocket or small pouch when not in use.
  11. Price Range:

    • Earbud headphones for runners are available at various price points, so you can find options that fit your budget. Higher-priced models often offer more advanced features and durability.
  12. Brands and Models:

    • Popular brands known for their running-friendly earbud headphones include Apple (AirPods and AirPods Pro), Bose (Bose Sport Earbuds), JBL (JBL Free X), and Sony (Sony WF-SP800N), among others.

Selecting the right earbud headphones for running will depend on your personal preferences, comfort, durability, and sound quality.Consider these factors to find the perfect pair that enhances your running experience.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best headphones for runners on the market
  

Been There, On-Ear Bluetooth Headphones 14 Hour Playtime, Hands-Free Calling, Sweat and Rain Resistant IPX4 Rated, 50 ft. Range JAM Audio Black

Jam

Based on 70 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This lightweight, stylish design is perfect for your all-day listening. With its 14 hours of playtime, don’t worry about having to recharge between your 9-5. Yeah, we did that.

  • BLUETOOTH COMPATABLE: Be free from wires that keep you connected to your smart device. The Been There is Bluetooth compatible and allows you to roam within 50-feet of your connected device
  • ON-EAR DESIGN: This soft, light-weight, supra-aural headphone sits comfortably on your ears without any bulk. The sleek design provides a natural, open sound to your environment and small ear cups allow for easy portability
  • HANDS-FREE CALLING: Don’t interrupt your workout. You can answer the phone without disconnecting your earphones. Been There knows when a call is coming in and will pause the music before ringing. When you hang up, the music starts where the track left off. If you’re making a call, just start dialing from your phone and Been There does its hands-free thing
  • SWEAT AND RAIN RESISTANT: These specially designed, IPX4 rated earbuds allow you to combat the elements. Working out? Caught in a monsoon? Not a problem. These earbuds are ready for a challenge
  • AUX--IN PORT: No Bluetooth, no problem. The aux-in port allows you to hook your Been There to your device with a 3.5mm cable so you can enjoy your music wherever you are

User questions & answers

Question: Does the Been There headphones have a microphone or do you still have to talk into the phone for calls
Answer: Unfortunately, the Fairing Mount will not work on the 2002 Ultra Classic.
Question: Does the Been There headphones have a microphone or do you still have to talk into the phone for calls
Answer: Yes it will fit. I would go with the perch mount vs the fairing mount. Just my opinion. Call Rickrak for more info and check out all their cool Motorcycle Necessities! 716-969-1694 Rickrak.com
Question: Can you rename the bluetooth "been there" name? i have 2 of these and want to name them different names
Answer: Unfortunately, the 50217 fairing mount will not work on the 2020 Road Glide.

Product features

Been There

This lightweight, stylish design is perfect for your all-day listening. With its 14 hours or playtime, don't worry about having to recharge between your 9-5. Yeah, we did that.

Our Philosophy

Jam Audio is about your everyday experience with sound. We provide the speakers, the stylish design, and the pop of color. You Just Add Music.

Bluetooth Compatible

Be free from wires that keep you connected to your smart device. The Been There is Bluetooth compatible and allows you to roam within 15m/50-feet of your connected device.

On-Ear Design

This soft, light-weight, supra-aural headphone sits comfortably on your ears without any bulk. The sleek design provides a natural, open sound to your environment and small ear cups allow for easy portability.

Hands-Free Calling

Don't interrupt your workout. You can answer the phone without disconnecting your earphones. Been There knows when a call is coming in and will pause the music before ringing. When you hang up, the music starts where the track left off. If you're making a call, just start dialing from your phone and Been There does its hands-free thing.

Sweat and Rain Resistant

These specifically designed, IPX4 rated headphones allow you to combat the elements. Working out? Caught in a downpour? Not a problem. These headphones are up to the challenge.

Aux-In Port

No Bluetooth, no problem. The aux in port allows you to hook up your Been There to your device with a 3.5mm cable so you can enjoy your music wherever you are.

Available Colors

Express yourself in bold colors or chill tones. Patterns and shades for every personality.

AfterShokz Titanium Bone Conduction Wireless Bluetooth Headphones, Black

Aftershokz

Based on 15 reviews Check latest price
  • BONE CONDUCTION TECHNOLOGY - Our bone conduction technology and Open Fit design delivers music through your cheekbones, ensuring your ears remain completely open to ambient sounds for maximum situational awareness during long-term wear.
  • Bluetooth connectivity - modern wireless headphones with Bluetooth V4. 1 connectivity and convenient multipoint pairing compatible with your iOS and Android Bluetooth-ready smartphones or tablets and Mac and PC computers and laptops.
  • Designed for long wear - Titanium wraparound headbands are lightweight and flexible to ensure maximum comfort during extended wear. Combined with a long battery life, This compact, slim fit allows you to enjoy continuous music and calls for six hours at a time.
  • QUALITY SOUND - Innovative Aftershocks headphones deliver a premium audio experience. With Premium Pitch technology that delivers a wide dynamic range and rich bass, and Leaks layer technology to significantly reduce natural sound leakage, you are ensured the best on-the-go audio.
  • Ultimate durability - our IP55 certified Sport headphones repel sweat, dust and moisture throughout your indoor or outdoor exercise routine. These sturdy workout headphones withstand your most strenuous running, cycling, and more! Eq presets reduce vibration.

User questions & answers

Question: Will these stay on while working out
Answer: 1, but reversible
Question: How do these fit while wearing thick prescription glasses
Answer: Only one, but two colours because it is reversible.
Question: what are the significant differences w/ M3? I'm hearing impaired & looking for a headphone for music I can wear at the beach without my hearing aid
Answer: I measured mine, which when flat measures about 7 inches on one side. The circumference when unstretched measured about 17 inches. Given that it stretches what I would say is fairly significantly, it's fair to say that it will stretch well beyond the approximate 17" baseline. I hope that's the width you were referring to. -Autumn survivorathletics.com
Question: My daughter only has 1 eardrum. Will she be able to hear music through both ears with these headphones
Answer: No - I have a small head and it was so small, that I knew a headache would be forthcoming if I continued to wear it. I returned it.

Product features

Titanium Headphones
Drawstring Carrying Case
USB Charging Cables
Earplugs

Amnis Stream Swim Bluetooth Headphones

FINIS

Based on 17 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Stream is designed to bring the experience of listening to your favorite music underwater – all you need is a smartwatch! The entertainment industry is constantly evolving, and now subscriptions are more popular than ever. People no longer have the need to download MP3 files and upload them to a device – It's all about streaming services! FINIS is excited to bring that same experience to the water. With the Stream Underwater Headphones, swimmers can now pair their smartwatch to listen to offline music, podcasts and more!

  • BLUETOOTH PAIRING: Pair these swimming headphones with a waterproof smartwatch clipped to the headphone strap or goggle strap; Clips work with Apple Watch (3 & newer), Garmin (Foreruner 645 Music, Vivoactive 3 Music, Fenix 5 Series)
  • YOUR CHOICE OF MUSIC: Through your preferred smartwatch app, download or select "offline" on your favorite music playlist, podcast, or audio book to listen while you swim; Tip - this is the same process as "Airplane Mode"
  • BONE CONDUCTION TECHNOLOGY: Provides crystal clear sound underwater, without the use of ear buds; Place the speakers on your temple bones to optimize the audio
  • WATERPROOF: Up to 3 meters (IPX8); Performs best underwater
  • LONG-LASTING CHARGE: Enjoy up to 5 hours of continuous music on a single charge

User questions & answers

Question: Can you just use a phone instead of an apple watch? My apple watch is 1st generation and cannot get wet. Can you just pair with a smart phone
Answer: It may be due to the file format of the song. Apple’s digital store uses AAC which is not supported by the earphones. Amazon uses MP3 which is supported. You could try converting your Apple/iTunes files to MP3. In theory (I have not tried this) you can do this in iTunes by going into the advanced Preferences and selecting MP3 as the output format instead of AAC, then doing File > Convert to MP3.
Question: Seeing lots of comments about apple devices... could i use this to listen to pandora on my android? (galaxy s
Answer: It doesn't work while in the water at all. It has that information buried somewhere in a description but doesn't say that on the sales page (unless they updated it). None of the Bluetooth waterproof headsets work in the water and most of them say it plainly but this product does not. I returned mine and got a AGPTEK S12 which has a better battery life.
Question: problem keeping headphones synced with Spotify. Watch attached head. My watch ends up saying oops something went wrong. Does anyone know why this is
Answer: Songs have to be converted to mp3. It is not drag and drop.
Question: Can I just use my watch on my wrist and still be able to listen to music while swimming or my watch has to be attached to the headphones
Answer: I've been to the bottom of a 6 foot deep pool and didn't have a problem with them I don't know that I would go much deeper with them, I wouldn't wear them scuba diving. as far as how long can you have them on?? I think the battery life is about 6 hours. I love them because I can put them on at te Gym, do a work out then hit the Jacuzzi, the steam room and the pool and never have to worry about them.

Product features

The way we listen to music has changed so shouldn’t underwater headphones adapt as well?

FINIS Amnis Stream allows you to listen to amazing quality, bone-conducting audio while you swim! Just connect the Amnis to your smartwatch and start listening to Apple Music, Spotify, Audible or any other compatible audio provider today!

UP TO 5 HOURS PLAY TIME
WATERPROOF TO 3 METERS (IPX8)
BLUETOOTH PAIRING
BONE CONDUCTION AUDIO
1.SYNC YOUR MUSIC, PODCAST, OR AUDIO BOOK TO YOUR SMARTWATCH

Hint: This is the same process you use for listening during “airplane mode”

2.ATTACH THE AMNIS STREAM HEADPHONES TO YOUR GOGGLES

The headphones are designed to fit snuggly below your google strap but clips are provided for additional, extra security

3.CLIP YOUR SMARTWATCH TO YOUR GOGGLES OR SLIP UNDER YOUR CAP

Watch clips are provided for Apple Watch Series 3-5, Garmin Fenix 5 Plus Series, Vivoactive 3 Music, and Forerunner 645 Music

Powerbeats Pro Wireless Earphones – Apple H1 Headphone chip, Class 1 Bluetooth, 9 Hours of Listening time, Sweat-Resistant Earbuds – Glacier Blue

Beats

Based on 43 reviews Check latest price
  • Totally wireless high-performance earphones
  • Up to 9 hours of listening time (more than 24 hours with charging case)
  • Adjustable, secure-fit ear hooks for lightweight comfort and stability
  • Reinforced design for sweat & water resistance during tough workouts or running
  • Volume & track controls on each earbud, voice capability, and auto play/pause
  • Features the Apple H1 Headphone Chip and Class 1 Bluetooth for extended range and fewer dropouts
  • Compatible with iOS and Android

JVC HA-AE5TA AE Sport Truly Wireless Earbuds - in Ear Bluetooth Headphones, 27 Hour Battery Life with Charging Case, Touch & Talk, Touch Sensor Control, Waterproof IP55 (Blue)

JVC

Based on 7 reviews Check latest price
  • FEATURES: Wireless Bluetooth 5.0 in-ear headphones with Aero Slim Design that reduces drag and wind noise. Features New Stress-Free Ear Pieces for Runners' Comfort suppresses landing noise and wind noise, so you can concentrate and run without stress.
  • FEATURES: Waterproof (IP55) – rain proof, washable, withstands sweat, dust proor. Designed to withstand rain and sweat of your workouts
  • FEATURES: 27 hour rechargeable battery (10-minute charge for 1 hour playback) and a portable and light charging case
  • FEATURES: Touch Control with Beep Feedback allows for one-touch operation to reduce volume and take in ambient sounds. You can quickly have a conversation whenever you need. Hands-free mic & Voice Assistant compatible
  • IN THE BOX: Regular and open type stress free ear pieces (3 sizes each), supporting fins (3 sizes), charging cable (Micro-USB)

Product features

INDEPENDENT TRANSMISSION

With Qualcomm TrueWireless Stereo Plus, the left and right earbuds will independently connect to any compatible smartphone or device. This enables stable connectivity and low latency, as well as the ability to use the earbuds independently. It is even possible to use only one earbud while the other is in the charging case.

AERO SLIM DESIGN

The low-profile design reduces air drag and wind noise for added comfort and better performance. The units are unobtrusive and won’t stick out of your ears. This improves stability and they won’t hit against your arms while stretching. Stylish cosmetics even for normal daily use.

WATER AND DUST PROOF (IP55)

These earbuds are rated IP55, featuring water resistance to splashing, sweat, unexpected rain showers and they are also dust proof as well. Don’t worry about getting them wet or dirty!

LONG BATTERY LIFE

Total 27 Hours of operation time with the included charging case (9H+18H). Enjoy long training periods without running out of battery life. Also, a quick 10-minute charge provides 1 hour of playback.

TOUCH CONTROL

The touch control feature with beep feedback makes it super easy to control your music while running. The function you want to control depends on the number of touches, left or right. Also, maintain a stable fit unlike push-button operation.

TOUCH & TALK

One-touch operation to reduce volume and take in ambient sounds. Now you can have a quick conversation without removing your earbuds. Hands-free mic & Voice Assistant compatible.

adidas RPD-01 in-Ear Wireless Bluetooth Sport Headphones - Night Grey

Adidas

Based on 53 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The RPD-01 keeps up with a life grounded in sports. They come with four different sizes of tips and wings, so you can find the perfect fit. All the controls you need are on the supportive silicone band, which sits comfortably around your neck from warm-up to recovery.

  • Ergonomic eartips & earwings: Comes with extra eartips and optional wings
  • Supportive neckband: The supportive neckband keeps everything stable.
  • Three button remote control: Three buttons put your music at your fingertips.
  • 12 h playtime: With 12 hours of playtime, these headphones can go all day on a single charge.
  • No sweat: IPX4 rated water resistance with sweatproof, splashproof construction.
  • Create custom shortcuts with the action button.

Product features

adidas RPD-01 Bluetooth In-Ear Sport Headphones
Get a perfect fit

These headphones come with extra eartips and wings, so you find the right fit for you. Don’t like the wings? You can go without them.

Keeps everything stable

These headphones are designed to move like an extension of your body, with a neckband that sits comfortably along the collar for a stable fit.

Keep it simple

Three buttons are all you need to skip tracks, hit pause or seamlessly switch over to a phone call.

Add a couple of miles onto your run

Go straight from work to the gym. With 12 hours of playtime, these headphones can handle all the detours of your day.

Keep up with a life grounded in sports with these supportive, perfect-fit headphones

Built to stay put through long days, the RPD-01 offers 12 hours of playtime in a design that keeps up with a life grounded in sports. The supportive silicone neckband stays put through city runs, weight training, and morning commutes. It comes with four sizes of eartips and wings so you find the right fit for your workout. Use the controls on the side to skip tracks and adjust volume. Tune in and tune out. Because sports are constant, and so are you.

JLab Audio Epic Air Sport ANC True Wireless Bluetooth 5 Earbuds | Headphones for Working Out | IP66 Sweatproof | 15-Hour Battery Life, 55-Hour Charging Case + Cloud Foam Mnemonic Earbud Tips

JLAB

Product description

Offering the ultimate true-wireless experience for any fitness-loving audiophile, JLab Epic Air Sport ANC offers customized sound and active noise canceling plus industry-leading 70+ hours playtime. Transition from gym to calls, work to a run effortlessly with features like wear-detect, movie mode, wireless charging and more. Also included, JLab's Cloud Foam eartips which provide additional comfort to the many styles of earbuds. Why use these? Cloud Foam is ideal for long wears, such as traveling, marathons, or even a long day at work. It provides less ear fatigue than standard eartips.

  • BEST-IN-CLASS PLAYTIME / WIRELESS + USB CHARGING CASE: Epic Air Sport ANC features 15+ hours of Bluetooth playtime in each earbud and 55+ additional hours from the charging case. That’s 70+ hours of Bluetooth 5 playtime. Plus, use ANC to tune out noise around you, you’ll get 50+ hours of Bluetooth ANC playtime. Dual charging options: Use any wireless pad to charge your case so you stay powered. Plus use the integrated charging cable and plug into any USB-A charging port.
  • SMART ACTIVE NOISE CANCELLATION: Control how you hear outside noise with three noise control modes in the hardware: ANC On, ANC Off and Be Aware (pass through outside noises). Six microphones work together to cancel out noise and provide uninterrupted audio – wherever you GO. Further customize the noise around you with the JLab Air ANC app.
  • DUAL CONNECT AND C3 CALLING: Use either earbud independently or use both and experience a seamless connection no matter the situation. Both earbuds auto connect to your device so no need to worry about switching or missing a connection. Experience clearer phone calls with C3 Calling. One mic picks up and eliminates surrounding noise while the other picks up your voice for clear conversations anywhere, anytime.
  • ENHANCED SOUND: These earbud tips are designed to provide the optimal listening experience with deep, enhanced bass and vibrant high tones. Cloud Foam technology provides long-lating comfort for super audio listening
  • PERFECT FIT: Cloud Foam technology is designed to expand after being placed in your ear to never slip out. Choose from 3 different sized eartips, compatible with any earbud, to leave behind ear fatigue.

Sony MDRAS400EX Sports Headphones with Adjustable Ear Loop (Black)

Sony

Based on 153 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Elevate your workout listening to your music with Sony Active Sports Headphones. You've got the right shoes and workout gear; now take your music to the next level with the MDRAS400EX headphones. The high efficiency, 9mm drivers units deliver extended frequency response and powerful bass while the hybrid silicone ear buds and adjustable ear loop ensure a secure fit.

  • Driver Unit : 9 mm, dome type
  • Sensitivity (db) : 103 dB/mW
  • Frequency Response : 5 - 24,000 Hz
  • Plug : Gold-plated, L-type stereo mini plug
  • Cord : 47 1/4 in. (1.2 m), Litz cord Y-Type

User questions & answers

Question: does it has mic
Answer: Hi J Mal, Bluetooth wireless technology operates within a range of about 10 m (30 feet). You may refer to page 70 of this link for more information (On Bluetooth communications): https://docs.sony.com/release//Help_4730303112.pdf ~Ralph
Question: Do these go in your ear
Answer: No batteries the have batteries inside them.
Question: What is the battery life on these
Answer: No, they have to be connected/attached to the music source.
Question: does this has mic
Answer: It’s not too bad

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