David Bridges
No matter your preferred type of exercise, investing in a pair of wireless workout headphones is essential for enhancing your experience. These headphones provide the freedom to move without the hassle of tangled cords during intense activities such as weight lifting, running a 5K, or spending time at the skate park. With a plethora of options available, it’s crucial to consider specific features tailored for exercise environments, such as water resistance, battery life, and overall comfort to ensure they can handle your sweat sessions.
At Engadget, our team has rigorously tested numerous fitness headphones and earbuds to curate our top recommendations, along with valuable tips to consider before making a purchase. Each of our selected models is versatile enough for use both in and out of the gym, allowing you to streamline your audio gear to just one reliable pair for daily use. For dedicated runners, be sure to explore our selection of the best headphones specifically designed for running.
Discover the Best Workout Headphones for 2025
Beats
Connectivity: Wireless | Style: In-ear with wingtip | Assistant support: Google Assistant, Siri
Read our complete Beats Fit Pro review
The Beats Fit Pro stands out as an exceptional choice with their comfortable, secure design, impressive sound quality, and a highly effective transparency mode. As noted by my colleague Billy Steele in his in-depth review, the unique wingtip design of these earbuds differentiates them from other options and enhances their suitability for activities like running and vigorous workouts. They are compact and lightweight, with a flexible wingtip that snugly fits your ear without applying excessive pressure. This ensures they stay securely in place during various activities, whether you’re on a morning jog or engaged in a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) session. Additionally, the earbuds boast an IPX4 rating, providing sufficient resistance against sweat and moisture, making them reliable even during the most intense workouts.
Throughout my sessions, the Beats Fit Pro remained firmly in place, although I encountered a minor issue: accidental presses on their onboard controls while adjusting their fit. Many times, I inadvertently paused my music when trying to reposition them due to the sensitivity of the buttons.
In terms of audio performance, sound quality is commendable, particularly for exercising, characterized by punchy bass and an overall balanced audio profile. The spatial audio support is an added bonus, and while the Adaptive EQ feature limits manual adjustments, it consistently delivers excellent sound quality. Users looking for a straightforward audio experience will appreciate this feature, as it minimizes the need for adjustments right out of the box. The active noise cancellation (ANC) is robust, and the transparency mode is particularly beneficial for outdoor activities like running and cycling. I found it to be the most natural-sounding transparency mode among the earbuds I tested, easily toggled on and off using onboard controls or through the control panel on iOS or Android devices.
For iPhone users, the Beats Fit Pro pairs seamlessly thanks to the built-in H1 chip, while Android users can benefit from the companion app for quick pairing, customizable controls, and battery status updates. Although I didn’t delve into the setup process in detail due to its simplicity, I was surprised by the somewhat flimsy feel of the charging case compared to the quality of the earbuds. While the case provides an extra 21 hours of battery life in addition to the six hours promised by the earbuds, its construction feels less premium. Despite this, the Beats Fit Pro delivers a comprehensive package for fitness enthusiasts, suitable for all-day use beyond just workouts. With a standard price of $200, they remain accessible, especially since discounts are frequently available.
- Comfortable IPX4 design
- Exceptional sound quality with Adaptive EQ
- Highly effective ANC and useful transparency mode
- Multipoint connectivity
- Reliable battery life
- Onboard controls are prone to accidental presses
- Charging case lacks premium feel
$170 at Macy’s
JLab
Connectivity: Wireless | Style: In-ear with hook | Assistant support: None
For budget-conscious shoppers, the JLab Go Air Sport+ priced at just $30, offers remarkable value. This latest iteration builds upon the previous model, the Go Air Sport, and I was pleasantly surprised by the level of comfort and audio performance it delivers. Many workout headphones feature a design that includes a hook wrapping around the top of your ear, and this design helps the Go Air Sport+ maintain a secure fit during your activities.
The Sport+ retains the same reliable design, featuring flexible hooks with a soft-touch finish that enhances overall comfort. While this design may require some adjustment for first-time users, it provides significant stability during high-intensity workouts, ensuring they won’t fall off during your sessions.
Sound quality on the Go Air Sport+ is commendable, although it may not match the balanced audio profile of higher-end models. One of the appealing features is the ability to switch between three different EQ modes — Signature, Balanced, and Bass Boost — using the onboard controls. This eliminates the need for any app, making it a straightforward option after using more complex models.
Expect over nine hours of playtime from the Go Air Sport+, with an additional 26 hours available through its charging case. JLab has addressed a previous issue by replacing the outdated built-in USB-A charging cable with a more modern USB-C option. While the case is somewhat bulky, it can still fit into a backpack or purse without much hassle, even if it isn’t as sleek as those found with pricier earbuds.
- Incredibly affordable
- Impressive sound quality given the price
- IP55-rated durability
- Good battery life
- Bulky charging case
- Hook design may not suit everyone
$30 at Amazon
SHOKZ
Connectivity: Wireless | Style: Open-ear | Assistant support: None
The Shokz OpenFit 2 represents the latest evolution of open-ear headphones, enhancing the experience of listening while remaining aware of your surroundings. This design allows for situational awareness, enabling external sounds to be heard instead of being blocked out, which is particularly beneficial for outdoor activities. In my experience, the OpenFit 2 excels in sound quality and comfort, proving to be a worthy option for those who prefer a non-intrusive earbud style.
The unique construction of the earbuds allows them to rest comfortably on the outer ear without excessive pressure, thanks to Shokz’s innovative “dolphin arc” hook design. This flexible hook wraps securely around the top of your ear, ensuring a stable fit during various activities, from running to strength training and indoor cycling. While I recommend caution against using them for activities that involve vigorous head movements, such as headbanging while listening to music.
Sound performance is impressive for open-ear earbuds, with the OpenFit 2 achieving substantial volume levels. Utilizing Shokz’s Direct Pitch technology, these earbuds optimize sound waves to enhance audio delivery while minimizing sound leakage. During my tests, they provided the best sound quality and volume of all the open-ear models I tried, although cranking the volume to the max may result in those nearby hearing your audio. These earbuds are an excellent choice for individuals who prefer to remain alert to their surroundings while engaging in workouts.
- Comfortable open-ear design
- Design promotes situational awareness
- Strong sound quality and volume
- Lacks active noise cancellation
- Not as secure compared to in-ear or hook-style earbuds
$180 at Amazon
H2O Audio
Connectivity: Wireless | Style: Over-ear | Assistant support: None
For those who prefer wearing over-ear headphones daily, it may be beneficial to consider a model specifically designed for workouts. The H2O Audio Ript Ultra is an excellent option for individuals who experience wear and tear on their regular headphones due to sweat and prolonged use.
These wireless headphones, while not explicitly rated for water exposure, claim to be “100 percent sweatproof,” thanks in large part to their removable and washable earcups. I tested them during some of my most demanding runs and strength-training sessions, and they performed admirably, with the earcups easy to detach for washing when necessary. Notably, a second pair of earcups is included for replacement when the original pair eventually wears out.
While the sound quality is acceptable, it could be improved given the $250 price point. The Ript Ultra features custom 45mm drivers and offers active noise cancellation (ANC) up to 30 dB. Though the audio performance does not surpass that of our top pick, it suffices to energize you during workouts. However, for the same price, options like Bose or Beats headphones may provide superior sound quality; the Ript Ultra prioritizes durability over audio fidelity. If you’re seeking headphones that can endure sweat and potentially last longer than others in the same price range, the Ript Ultra is a great option.
- Sweatproof design
- Removable and washable earcups
- Includes a second pair of earcups
- Comfortable fit for extended use
- High price point
- Sound quality could be superior
$250 at Amazon
Additional Wireless Workout Headphones We Tested
Apple AirPods Pro: A Versatile Choice for Active Lifestyles
The Apple AirPods Pro come with an IP54 rating, providing protection against dust and splashes. While this level of protection is better than many other earbuds tested, it matches the water resistance found in most exercise-specific competitors. Overall, the AirPods Pro is a solid option, but the Beats Fit Pro presents similar features and conveniences, including an effective transparency mode and the H1 chip, with a design more tailored for workout settings.
Beats Powerbeats Pro: The Classic Hook Design
The Powerbeats Pro offers a compelling alternative to the Beats Fit Pro for those who prefer a hook design. However, they are typically priced $50 higher than the Fit Pro, often retailing around $180, without providing significant upgrades or unique features beyond their design. Additionally, considering they were launched in 2019, it appears that Beats is focusing on enhancing their newer models instead of updating this classic.
Anker Soundcore AeroFit Pro: A Less Secure Option
The Soundcore AeroFit Pro by Anker is designed as a competitor to the Shokz OpenFit, but I found them to be less secure and comfortable during use. The earbuds are noticeably bulkier compared to those on the OpenFit, causing them to shift and require adjustments while exercising. Although they never completely fell off, I found myself fiddling with them more than enjoying my workout.
JBL Endurance Peak 3: Budget-Friendly but Compromised Performance
Notably, the Endurance Peak 3 boasts an IP68 rating, similar to the now-discontinued Jabra Elite 8 Active, yet is priced at a mere $100. While this offers commendable protection, other aspects suffer. The Endurance Peak 3 does not impress in terms of sound quality or comfort, with a hook design that feels stiffer compared to my preferred models. Additionally, the charging case is significantly larger than those of most competitors, which can be cumbersome.
Key Features to Consider When Selecting Workout Headphones
Choosing the Right Design for Your Workout Headphones
Before we delve deeper into the specifics, it’s important to clarify that this guide primarily focuses on wireless earbuds. While over-ear or on-ear headphones can also be worn during workouts, they often lack the durability found in the best wireless earbuds. When selecting headphones for exercise, features such as water resistance and dust protection are critical, especially if you plan to sweat or use them outdoors.
Most earbuds fall into one of three design categories: in-ear, in-ear with hook, or open-ear. The in-ear style is the most common, while those with hooks provide better security and fit due to their design, which curls around the top of your ear. Open-ear designs rest outside the ear canal, allowing for easier access to environmental sounds while listening to audio, which can be more comfortable for users who find in-ear models intrusive.
Understanding Water Resistance and Dust Protection Ratings
Even if a pair of headphones isn’t marketed specifically for exercise, a robust, water-resistant design can make them suitable for workouts. To clarify durability, ingression protection (IP) ratings measure the level of protection from dust and moisture. The first digit in the “IP” rating indicates dust protection, while the second digit indicates water resistance, with higher numbers denoting better protection. The ratings for water resistance vary from 1 to 9, where higher numbers signify enhanced protection.
All earbuds reviewed for this guide possess at least an IPX4 rating, which signifies no dust protection but can withstand splashes from any angle and is resistant to sweat, although they should not be submerged. For a detailed explanation of all possible variations, refer to a guide published by The Enclosure Company.
The Importance of Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency Mode
Active noise cancellation (ANC) has become a standard feature in wireless earbuds, especially in models at higher price points. If you’re searching for earbuds that serve both as workout companions and everyday audio devices, having noise cancellation is beneficial. This feature allows you to block out unwanted background noise, whether at home or during a commute, enhancing the listening experience.
Moreover, the ability to toggle between noise cancellation and transparency modes is crucial for outdoor workouts. It’s essential to stay aware of your surroundings while running or cycling, especially near busy streets. Adjusting noise cancellation levels to enhance awareness can help ensure safety. In contrast, stronger noise cancellation is more desirable for indoor training sessions, where blocking out gym noise can improve focus.
Assessing Battery Life for Your Workout Headphones
All the Bluetooth earbuds reviewed in this guide offer a battery life ranging from six to eight hours on average. This duration is typical in this category, with some models reaching up to 15 hours on a single charge. The lower end of this battery life spectrum should still suffice for most athletes and fitness enthusiasts, but keeping the charging case handy is advisable for longer sessions.
Most charging cases provide an additional 20 to 28 hours of battery life, with all tested earbuds delivering at least 15 extra hours. This aspect significantly influences how often you’ll need to recharge your earbuds, whether by connecting the case to a power source or utilizing a wireless charging option.
Our Comprehensive Testing Process for Workout Headphones
When testing wireless workout headphones, I utilize them during a variety of exercises, including casual walks, brisk runs, and rigorous weight-lifting sessions. Comfort is my top priority, as you shouldn’t have to constantly adjust your earbuds while focusing on your workout. I also assess how well they stay in place during fast movements and how they perform under sweat-inducing conditions. Additionally, I use the earbuds outside of workout settings for calls and casual listening, as many users prefer a single pair of earbuds for both activities. This evaluation focuses on comfort and sound quality across different uses.
While I consider sound quality during testing, I admit that I’m not an audio expert. My colleague Billy Steele, who specializes in audio reviews, provides more detailed insights into audio performance and quality in his reviews and buying guides. However, I do note any significant audio characteristics, such as strong bass or weak highs. Most wireless workout headphones we tested feature companion apps that allow for adjustable EQ settings, enabling you to customize sound profiles to your liking.
Daniel Mercer
Ethan Carter
