With an oversaturated market, choosing the right wireless headphones for sports can be a chore. Since each pair offers different features and specs, knowing what you want before diving into the options is advantageous.

That's because those who play sports need a little more from their headphones than regular listeners. Wireless earbuds are the most sought-after among athletes, and they must have a secure and comfortable fit, as well as some protection against sweat or inclement weather.

Here's a look at the best wireless headphones for sports available today.

The Bose SoundSport Free Earbuds are a fantastic choice for anyone who needs a secure and comfortable fit during workouts or other activities. Thanks to their soft-silicone StayHear tips, these buds mold perfectly to the shape of your ear and stay firmly in place. With their wing-like design, the included sports tips ensure an even more snug and secure fit for vigorous exercise.

While the SoundSport Free Earbuds don't have active noise-cancelation or a transparency mode, they go all in on delivering top-notch sound quality. It is truly exceptional, with rich and deep bass that is well-balanced with clear vocals and crisp highs. And, with the dual microphone array on the right bud, you can take crisp and clear audio calls.

They are rated at IPX4, too. So they can easily repel your workout sweat. If you’re running in light rain, you can be sure that your headphones will survive, but they are not suitable for water-based activities like surfing or canoeing. However, battery life is only average at five hours, with 10 hours more in the charging case.

Key Features
  • Find My Buds feature
  • 3x StayHear and 3x Sport tips
  • Built-in dual microphone array
  • Magnetic charging case
Specifications
  • Battery Life: 5 hours (15 hours with charging case)
  • Charging Case Included?: Yes
  • Microphones: Yes
  • Brand: Bose
  • Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.1
  • IP Rating: IPX4
  • Driver Size: Undisclosed
  • Case battery: 10 hours
  • Weight: 0.35 ounces (single bud)
  • Dimensions and weight (earbuds): 12 x 1 x 1.2 inches
  • Dimensions and weight (case): 1.5 x 3.9 x 1.9 inches
  • Noise Cancellation: No
Pros
  • Easy NFC pairing
  • Comfortable and secure fit
  • Sweat resistant
Cons
  • No ANC or transparency mode
  • Middling battery life
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Bose SoundSport Free Wireless Earbuds

Beats' Powerbeats Pro Earbuds are a sporting alternative to Apple’s flagship AirPods Pro. They maintain the same around-ear hook as the previous generation of Powerbeats earbuds, which offer you premium stability when playing and training. They also feature multiple ear-tip options for maximum comfort and an IPX4 rating to resist your workout sweat.

Setup is straightforward with Apple gadgets. The buds are also compatible with Android devices, but the setup process is more involved. Crucially, when working out, you can also find the essential listening controls without trouble. You can locate the ‘B’ logo on either earbud and use simple sequences to pause, play, skip, reverse, or activate Siri. You’ll also find the volume control at the top of each earbud.

Looking at the nine-hour battery life, you'll find these buds last as long as you do. When your workout is over and you're ready to cool down, you can set the Powerbeats Pro Earbuds in their charging case for up to 24 hours of total listening time.

Key Features
  • Adjustable ear hooks
  • Spatial audio support
  • Apple H1 headphone chip
  • Noise isolation
Specifications
  • Battery Life: 9 hours (24 hours with charging case)
  • Charging Case Included?: Yes
  • Microphones: Yes
  • Brand: Apple
  • Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.0
  • IP Rating: IPX4
  • Driver Size: 12-millimeter
  • Weight: 0.4 ounces (single bud)
  • Dimensions and weight (earbuds): 0.9 x 2.3 x 1.5 inches
  • Dimensions and weight (case): 1.7 x 3 x 3 inches
  • Noise Cancellation: No
Pros
  • Solid battery life
  • Secure fit
  • Sweat and water resistant
Cons
  • No ANC
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Beats Powerbeats Pro Earbuds

Whether running the trails or working out in the gym, the IP66 resistance rating that JLab’s JBuds Air Sport Earbuds offers is effective against dirt, sweat, and sudden downpours. The touch controls also maintain their sensitivity even when hands are wet or covered in dust, making them a true value for your money no matter your sport.

They feature the over-ear hook design that many sports earbuds have nowadays but make no mistake, they fit securely and form a proper seal. However, the BeAware noise isolation also ensures you can still hear oncoming traffic. You can turn it on with a simple touch and turn it off when relaxing and listening to your tunes or podcasts. If you download the JLab Sound app, you can customize Noise Control settings, touch controls, and the graphic equalizer.

At around four and a half hours, battery life is less than premium when it comes to earbuds. However, with about five and a half charges from the case via the integrated USB cable, you can get up to 30 hours of listening time while you work out.

Key Features
  • Stereo audio calling
  • 3x gel tips and 1x cloud foam tip
  • 3x EQ presets
  • BeAware noise isolation
Specifications
  • Battery Life: 9 hours (35 hours with charging case)
  • Charging Case Included?: Yes
  • Microphones: Yes
  • Brand: JLab
  • Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.0
  • IP Rating: IP66
  • Driver Size: 8-millimeter
  • Weight: 0.3 ounces (single bud)
  • Dimensions and weight (earbuds): 0.9 x 1 x 2.1 inches
  • Dimensions and weight (case): 3.5 x 2.5 x 1.55 inches
  • Noise Cancellation: No
Pros
  • Great water and dust resistance
  • Easy-to-use touch controls
  • Secure and comfortable fit
  • Affordable
  • Lightweight
Cons
  • No ANC
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JLab JBuds Air Sport Earbuds

If you don’t like the look of the ear hook design, yet still long for secure earbuds, check out the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro. At around 5.5 grams per earbud, they offer the same featherweight design but feature larger air vents than the first iteration. Your ears won’t feel clogged, but the buds will remain secure.

With an IPX7 resistance rating, water and sweat are of little concern. In fact, you can even wear them in the shower after your workout without any problem. Using the intuitive controls on the touch panels, simple taps and presses are all it takes to get skip songs, control the volume, adjust the noise cancelation setting...the list goes on.

The second-edition Galaxy Buds Pro offer some of the best active noise-cancelation you can find. While you shouldn’t use it when out running in the streets for safety reasons, it’s an excellent feature to use during downtime. Alternatively, you can use the effective Transparency Mode when out running. It lets just the right amount of ambient noise through to help keep you aware of your environment.

Key Features
  • Active noise-cancelation
  • HD Voice Technology
  • 360-degree audio
  • Intelligent Conversation Mode
Specifications
  • Battery Life: 8 hours (29 hours with charging case)
  • Charging Case Included?: Yes
  • Microphones: Yes
  • Brand: Samsung
  • Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.3
  • IP Rating: IPX7
  • Driver Size: 10-millimeter
  • Weight: 0.19 ounces (single bud)
  • Dimensions and weight (earbuds): 0.8 x 0.85 x 0.7 inches
  • Dimensions and weight (case): 2 x 2 × 1.1 inches
  • Noise Cancellation: Yes
Pros
  • Comfortable and secure fit
  • Hi-Fi sound quality
  • Excellent water resistance
  • Featherweight design
Cons
  • Meager battery life with ANC on
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Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro

With a more a hook design as stylish as this one, you may think the JBL Endurance Peak 3 Wireless Headphones are all style and no substance, but don’t be fooled: these headphones don't compromise on quality a bit, especially for their price range. They have an IP68 rating for starters, meaning they laugh at sweat and rain, and running on dusty terrain is never problematic. They're perfect for cross-country runners and even surfers, thanks to their ability to handle saltwater.

Using the Peak 3s' AmbientAware feature, you can stay alert to your surroundings while you keep the BPM pumping. What's more, TalkThru technology allows you to take calls from anywhere without struggling to understand the person on the other line. Even when the wind howls, your voice will still be clear and crisp thanks to the dual beamforming mics in each ear.

The Battery life will buy you 10 hours of listening, with four times that if you use the charging case. If your Endurance Peak 3 Headphones do run out of juice, a quick 10-minute Boost Charge will give you an hour of motivating tunes to get you through the rest of your session.

Key Features
  • AmbientAware Technology
  • TalkThru Technology
  • 2x dual beamforming microphones
  • JBL Pure Bass Sound
  • Powerhook and Twistlock design
Specifications
  • Battery Life: 10 hours (40 hours with charging case)
  • Charging Case Included?: Yes
  • Microphones: Yes
  • Brand: JBL
  • Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.2
  • IP Rating: IP68
  • Driver Size: 10-millimeter
  • Weight: 0.45 ounces (single bud)
  • Dimensions and weight (earbuds): 2 x 1.6 x 1.2 inches
  • Dimensions and weight (case): 6.5 x 4 x 2 inches
  • Noise Cancellation: No
Pros
  • Hands-free calls
  • IP68 Water resistance
  • Stylish design
Cons
  • On the heavy side
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JBL Endurance Peak 3 Wireless Headphones

Another excellent option from Apple is the Beats Fit Pro Wireless Earbuds. Their design is a little different; they feature secure wing tips that tuck into the upper ear and offer all-day comfort and stability, perfect for your workout. With an IPX4 resistance rating, you don’t need to worry about the sweat you work up, either. However, they aren’t resistant enough to wear in the shower or for aquatic sports like kayaking or surfing.

Audio-wise, they are excellent. The sound is balanced and features spatial audio that gives depth and space. Meanwhile, the Dynamic Head Tracking feature means the sound follows your head movements. An immersive musical experience awaits anyone using these buds while working out. They also feature decent active noise-canceling for your downtime. And, when in the gym or out running, you can switch to Transparency Mode to hear the surrounding environment.

You get around six hours of listening time, ample for most workouts. If you need more power, the pocket-sized charging case will give you up to 24 hours, which is an excellent choice for hikers. However, as Apple manufactures them, Android users miss out on some premium features. These include spatial audio and hands-free Siri support.

Key Features
  • Apple H1 headphone chip
  • Secure fit wingtips
  • Spatial audio with dynamic head tracking
  • Adaptive EQ
  • Transparency Mode and ANC
Specifications
  • Battery Life: 6 hours (24 hours with charging case)
  • Charging Case Included?: Yes
  • Microphones: Yes
  • Brand: Apple
  • Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.0
  • IP Rating: IPX4
  • Driver Size: 9.5-millimeter
  • Weight: 0.19 ounces (single bud)
  • Dimensions and weight (earbuds): 0.75 x 1.1 x 0.9 inches
  • Dimensions and weight (case): 1.1 x 2.4 x 2.4 inches
  • Noise Cancellation: Yes
Pros
  • Compatible with Apple and Android devices
  • Respectable sweat and water resistance
  • 3x soft-silicone eartip sizes
  • Lightweight build
Cons
  • Bass-heavy sound
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Beats Fit Pro

JBL offers a lot with its Endurance Race headphones at a surprisingly affordable price. They are designed with an active lifestyle in mind, so they're ideal for athletes and those who are just looking to add some get-up-and-go to their routines. They feature a twist-lock design which eases pressure-point discomfort and forms a good seal.

Performance-wise, they're equipped with an excellent IP67 rating. This makes them a great choice for surfing and kayaking (or any other water-surface sports aside from swimming). With that rating, you can also go running on the beach without worrying about sand finding its way in and ruining your buds.

You won't find any full ANC for safety reasons, since a high level of activity is the primary target with these excellent-value earbuds. Like their Endurance Peak 3 counterparts, they have AmbientAware and TalkThru features. These allow you to keep your surrounding environment in check and make crystal-clear calls no matter the noise around you, whether howling winds or chattering gym-goers.

Key Features
  • JBL Pure Bass Sound
  • Speed Charge (provides 1 hour of battery life)
  • Twistlock for secure fit
  • Dual beamforming mics
  • AmbientAware and TalkThru technologies
Specifications
  • Battery Life: 10 hours (20 hours with charging case)
  • Charging Case Included?: Yes
  • Microphones: Yes
  • Brand: JBL
  • Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.2
  • IP Rating: IP68
  • Driver Size: 6-millimeter
  • Weight: 0.4 ounces (single bud)
  • Dimensions and weight (earbuds): 1.2 x 0.8 x 0.8 inches
  • Dimensions and weight (case): 1.2 x 0.8 x 0.8 inches
  • Noise Cancellation: No
Pros
  • Compatible with Apple and Android devices
  • Solid dust and water resistance
  • Compatible with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa
  • Various tips for the ideal fit
  • Simple touch controls
Cons
  • Average mic quality
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JBL Endurance Race

The Soundcore by Anker Sport X10 Wireless Earbuds offer much more than a pair in this price range normally does. Not only do you get powerful bass-centric audio with an adjustable in-app graphic equalizer, but you're also protected by a sturdy IPX7 water resistance. If that level isn’t enough, the added SweatGuard Technology ensures your steamy workouts do not affect the internal workings.

With their secure design, you can be sure these buds won’t move anywhere while you run, jump, lift, or otherwise exercise. They are perfect for cycling, running, surfing, hiking, and many other activities. However, as they aren't dustproof, you should avoid beach activities and dusty conditions. Whatever sports you partake in, these buds will sit securely in your ear thanks to the hook function. These hooks are rotatable, and you can twist them until you find the perfect fit for your ear.

The ANC these buds offer is also pretty impressive, considering the affordable price tag. The Transparency Mode, which many prefer to use over full ANC, is also excellent at letting just enough important audio through. You can easily toggle between the modes on-ear or via the app. Additionally, with an eight-hour battery life, these buds will get you through long sessions, while you can get three more full charges from the charging case, making them an excellent choice if you like to take your activities to remote locations.

Key Features
  • 210-degree rotatable over-ear hooks
  • Fast Charge feature (10 minutes for two hours of battery life)
  • SweatGuard Technology
  • Transparency Mode
  • In-app breathing exercises
Specifications
  • Battery Life: 8 hours (32 hours with charging case)
  • Charging Case Included?: Yes
  • Microphones: Yes
  • Brand: Anker
  • Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.2
  • IP Rating: IPX7
  • Driver Size: 10-millimeter
  • Weight: 0.23 ounces (single bud)
  • Dimensions and weight (earbuds): 2.5 x 1.2 x 1.6 inches
  • Dimensions and weight (case): 3 x 1.8 x 1.2 inches
  • Noise Cancellation: Yes
Pros
  • Powerful bass
  • IPX7 water resistance
  • Lightweight design
  • Customizable EQ with 22 presets
Cons
  • Bass-heavy sound won't suit everyone
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Soundcore by Anker Sport X10 Wireless Earbuds

The Shure AONIC 215 TW2 Earbuds are a pair of comfortable and securely-fitting over-ear true wireless buds perfect for athletes and fitness enthusiasts. This is the second generation of these popular buds, and Shure has made a couple of welcome additions.

They now have an IPX4 rating giving protection against splashes and sweat. You also get excellent audio passthrough via Environment Mode, which you can turn off and on with a simple button press. You can even control its level in-app, which ensures safe running around busy areas. The sound-isolating technology can block up to 37dB, limiting distractions when needed. Additionally, no matter your activity, they fit securely in your ear thanks to their sturdy over-ear hooks.

The app also gives you access to an excellent graphic equalizer. There, you can manually adjust the settings or choose from presets such as "bass boost." Single tap-and-holds on each ear will control the volume level.

The microphone quality is also excellent for wireless earbuds—no surprise given it’s Shure—providing crystal-clear calls and video chats.

Shure markets the headphones as having an eight-hour battery life. However, this may be reduced to around five or six hours, depending on volume. The bulky charging case will give you an extra three full charges via a USB cable for an advertised total of 32 hours.

Key Features
  • Good sound isolation
  • Environment Mode
  • In-app customizable EQ
Specifications
  • Battery Life: 8 hours (32 hours with charging case)
  • Charging Case Included?: Yes
  • Microphones: Yes
  • Brand: Shure
  • Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.0
  • IP Rating: IPX4
  • Weight: 0.28 ounces (single bud)
  • Dimensions and weight (earbuds): 0.8 x 0.8 x 0.9 inches
  • Dimensions and weight (case): 7 x 7 x 3 inches
  • Noise Cancellation: No
Pros
  • Premium microphone
  • Secure over-ear fit
  • Sweat and water resistant
  • Easy-to-use touch controls
  • Very lightweight
Cons
  • Design won't appeal to everyone
Buy This Product
Shure AONIC 215 TW2 Earbuds

If you’re a sports enthusiast looking for more control over your workout audio, the Anker Soundcore Liberty Air 2 Pro Earbuds are well worth your consideration. With HearID, you get personalized audio. It determines your sensitivity to different frequencies and then adjusts the output accordingly. This feature gives you an accurate sound experience that compensates for any hearing deficiency.

With Targeted Active Noise-Canceling, you can also choose which frequencies you wish the earbuds to reduce. This feature is crucial for hearing the traffic or people around you when out on a run. While recovering from your workout, you can immerse yourself in audio with complete ANC.

In the app, there's also the chance to adjust the equalizer or choose from 22 presets to get your tunes to the exact sound you prefer. You can also enjoy the Anker Soundcore Liberty Air 2 Pro Earbuds' water resistance repelling sweat and rain, along with the stalwart seven-hour battery life.

Key Features
  • Targeted ANC
  • PureNote Technology
  • LDAC Technology
  • Adjustable EQ or 22 presets
  • HearID for a personalized audio experience
Specifications
  • Battery Life: 7 hours (26 hours with charging case)
  • Charging Case Included?: Yes
  • Microphones: Yes
  • Brand: Anker
  • Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.0
  • IP Rating: IPX4
  • Driver Size: 11-millimeter
  • Weight: 0.28 ounces (single bud)
  • Dimensions and weight (earbuds): 1.5 x 0.9 x 0.9 inches
  • Dimensions and weight (case): 4.6 x 2.4 x 4.7 inches
  • Noise Cancellation: Yes
Pros
  • A range of eartips
  • Wireless Qi charging
  • Sweat and rain resistant
  • Comfortable and secure fit
Cons
  • Bulky design
Buy This Product
Anker Soundcore Liberty Air 2 Pro

FAQ

Q: What Are Sports Headphones?

In theory, you can use almost any set of headphones while working out. The design makes a difference in how practical it is to use them during physical activity.For instance, if the headphones aren't waterproof or water-resistant, you can't use them in rainy conditions or sweaty environments. Generally, cables can get in the way and may even cause the headphones to fall from your ears.Sports headphones are designed with workouts in mind and have many features to make them suitable for physical activity. Some sets will be expressly labeled as sports headphones, although you will find plenty of options with similar features but without a sports label.

Q: Can You Run With Big Headphones?

Over-ear headphones are far larger than in-ear alternatives. However, you can still use them for exercise, although they might not be quite as practical. For instance, during intense workouts, the headband may make you too hot or get sweaty. This is a similar consideration for the earpads or ear cushions.That said, many people prefer the stability of the over-ear headphone. Aside from vigorous shakes of the head, your headphones aren't likely to slip. You can always adjust the size using the sliders along the side of most sets to make them tighter.

Q: Are AirPods Good for the Gym?

The Apple AirPods are widely considered a great pair of earbuds for most activities. However, for physical workouts like heading to the gym, you'd be better opting for the AirPods Pro. These in-ear headphones come with multi-sized tips for a tighter fit, are water-resistant, and come with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC).There's also a Transparency Mode, which allows you to keep an ear on what's happening around you. As AirPods are a variety of True Wireless Headphones, many of the same points apply to this style of earbuds.