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10 Best Headphones for Running (That Don’t Fall Off) in 2024

Last updated: 11 months ago
13 min read

After thoroughly testing 193 headphones, here are:

  • The best over-ear headphones for running and jogging that stay on your head.
  • The best sweatproof and rainproof headphones you can take outside in the rain.
  • The best options with Ambient sound mode for situational awareness, perfect for running in a city.

Here’s the rundown:

We test and evaluate headphones using a standardized 9-point methodology. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission. Learn more.

Quick Overview

More info Stability Water-resistance Battery Price Ambient sound mode Multipoint
Sony WH-1000XM5 Best overall
Sony WH-1000XM5 small image
Good
None
40h+
MSRP $400
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Treblab Z7 Pro Best sweatproof
Treblab Z7 Pro
Good
IPX4
40h
MSRP $180
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Good
None
40h
MSRP $100
crosscross
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Anker Soundcore Life Q30 Best under $100
Anker Soundcore Life Q30 noise cancelling headphones
Good
None
44h+
MSRP $80
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TOZO OpenReal Best for awareness
TOZO OpenReal small image
Great
IPX8
12h
MSRP $50
crosscross
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Jaybird Vista 2 Best in-ear
Jaybird Vista 2 small image
Great
IPX8 (IP68)
6h + 16h in case
Under $200
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CONTENTS (show more)

    The headphones on the list are evaluated based on 9 key factors (Sonic9Score).  But the main criteria we looked at are fit stability for running, Ambient sound mode, and water resistance. See our testing and ranking methodology for details.

    The most important thing when choosing headphones for running is fit and stability.

    Most big headphones move and fall off when you start moving. But those with a strong clamping force keep them on the head.

    Another thing is the Ambient sound mode, which is useful for running outside where you want awareness. This feature makes headphones suitable for running on a gym treadmill or on the streets.

    Last but not the least is water resistance. Most headphones don’t have official water protection but are fine for listening in the rain and when you sweat.

    Let’s check the list:

    Best Over-Ear Headphones for Running

    1. Sony WH-1000XM5

    1st-place Best Overall
    • Stability & Fit: Lightweight with good clamping force
    • Water resistance: None, but won’t die at first drizzle
    • Ambient sound mode: Automatic on/off switching for convenience
    Sony WH-1000XM5 in a carrying case

    If you want modern headphones with great sound that stay on the head, the Sony WH-1000XM5 are the best we’ve tested. – Sony WH-1000XM5 review.

    $311.99
    $363.99
    in stock
    Walmart.com
    $398.00
    in stock
    20 new from $398.00
    26 used from $226.96
    as of November 8, 2024 12:56 am
    Amazon.com
    Connection icon Connection: Bluetooth 5.2
    Driver size icon Driver size: 30mm dynamic
    Frequency range icon Frequency range: 4-40.000Hz
    Type: Over-ear | Battery life: 40h (with ANC) | Wireless range: 65 feet (19.8 meters)(Connection priority) | Noise cancelling: Yes, adaptive | Charging: 3.5h – Quick charge – USB-C (PD) | Mic & Controls: Yes | Bluetooth codecs: SBC, AAC, LDAC | Water resistance: None | Features: App, Adaptive ANC, 360 Audio, Speak-to-chat
    • Fun sound that can become natural after EQ
    • Modern, comfortable & stable design
    • Class-leading active noise cancellation performance
    • Excellent battery life of more than 40 hours (with ANC)
    • The best call quality in consumer BT headphones
    • Not the most detailed sound
    • Too much plastic for the price

    These modern over-ear headphones come with the latest features like active noise canceling, capable equalization, and a fantastically clear microphone for phone calls on a jog. They’re the best for a demanding runner who wants capable high-end headphones and isn’t squeamish paying for them.

    And while might seem too big to stay secure on the head when running, they do a good job thanks to lightweight design and solid clamping force. They held up nicely during our head-shaking and running tests. You can easily use them for running and jogging at a decent pace.

    Sound quality is superb, with ample EQ options that transform the sound to fit your music genre. They’re great for all audio media, including music, podcasts, and audiobooks.

    Hear the Sony WH-1000XM5 A/B Sound Test:

    Sony WH-1000XM5 Sound Quality Test – HeadphonesAddict

    While they have no official water resistance, they’re well made and as long as you don’t leave them out in rain, they work fine. But if you’re a heavy sweater, check the sweatproof recommendation below.

    These feature-rich headphones come with all the modes you can imagine:

    • Adaptive ANC: Noise cancelation adapts to the environment
    • Ambient Sound mode: Lets you hear your surroundings
    • Bluetooth multipoint: Lets you connect to multiple devices simultaneously
    • Speak-to-Chat: Automatically switches to Ambient sound mode
    • Equalizer: Adjust the sound profile to your liking
    • Find Your Equalizer: Quickly find your prefered EQ settings
    • 360 Reality Audio: Virtual surround sound increases soundstage
    • Spatial Sound and Head Tracking: Sound follows your head movements
    • Voice Assistant: Give commands with voice
    • Spotify and Endel app connection: Streaming service integration
    • Daily activity and Safe Listening logs: Tracks headphone usage and habits
    • Badges: Achievement system

    The Ambient sound mode lets you hear your surroundings, so you can run in all situations safely. More details in our review. Their quick-charging battery is top-notch. We tested it at 40 hours and 27 minutes with ANC on. This lasts for many runs without charging.

    The only bad thing about them is the lack of water protection, so they’re not suitable for heavy sweaters or running in the rain.

    Best Sweatproof Headphones for Running

    2. Treblab Z7 Pro

    1st-place Best for a Heavy Sweaters & Running in Rain
    • Stability & Fit: Tight clamping force keeps the lightweight body secure
    • Water resistance: IPX4 sweatproof and water resistant for running in rain
    • Ambient sound mode: Turn it on with a button
    Treblab Z7 Pro water-resistant running headphones

    If you’re looking for fully sweatproof headphones you can wear in rain, the Treblab Z7 Pro are the best we’ve tested – Treblab Z7 Pro review.

    $99.99
    in stock
    as of November 8, 2024 12:46 am
    Amazon.com
    $149.97
    $179.97
    in stock
    Walmart.com
    $159.97
    in stock
    Treblab.com
    out of stock
    eBay
    Connection icon Connection: Bluetooth 5.0 / Wired – 3.5mm
    Driver size icon Driver size: 40mm dynamic
    Frequency range icon Frequency range: 20-20.000Hz
    Type: Over-ear | Battery life: 45h | Wireless range: 40ft (12.2m) | Noise cancelling: Yes | Charging: 2.5h + quick charge – USB-C | Mic & Controls: Yes | Bluetooth codecs: SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX HD | Water resistance: IPX4 | Features: Auto play/pause, ambient sound mode, foldable
    • Good sound quality
    • Comfortable design
    • Stable fit, even for working out
    • IPX4 sweat resistance
    • Foldable design with included hard-shell case
    • Support for aptX HD & multipoint
    • Good active noise cancellation
    • Mediocre transparency mode
    • Slightly muffled-sounding with some genres
    • No app and custom EQ/presets

    Hear the Treblab Z7 Pro A/B Sound Test:

    Treblab Z7 Pro Sound Quality Test – HeadphonesAddict

    These are the toughest water-resistant headphones suitable for running due to official IPX4 certification. If you get caught in a shower during a jog, it’s not a problem. Also, they’re the best headphones for runners who sweat a lot.

    The stability of the fit is great for running thanks to a tight clamping force and lightweight body. The thick memory-foam earpads ensure long-term comfort. But they’re also prone to sweating due to pleather cover.

    Their sound quality has boosted bass with balanced mids and an overall enjoyable sound that’s fun for listening to music.

    Our battery test shows they last for 39.5 hours per charge with ANC on, which is plenty of time. And when you run out of juice, they fully recharge in only 2.5 hours.

    They come with a built-in microphone for calls on the go, decent active noise cancellation that removes background noise, and Ambient sound mode that keeps you aware of the environment. You control them with touch control. But unfortunately, don’t come with a companion app or equalization.

    Bluetooth connection is reliable and supports aptX and aptX HD Bluetooth codecs for high-resolution music. With multipoint support, you can connect them to multiple devices at the same time, and there’s no noticeable audio lag when watching videos.

    The only caveat is the lack of equalization and customization because they don’t come with an app. So, these are not the best for demanding users who want full control over their headphones.

    Apart from that, the Treblab Z7 Pro over-ear headphones were made for running.

    Check other sports headphone guides:

    Best Running Headphones for Bass

    3. Skullcandy Hesh Evo

    1st-place Best for Bass
    • Stability & Fit: Good stability for jogging, lightweight, lighter clamping force
    • Water resistance: None
    • Ambient sound mode: None
    Skullcandy Hesh Evo Wireless

    If you want basic wireless headphones with strong bass, the Skullcandy Hesh Evo stay secure on the head and don’t cost an arm and a leg.

    Connection icon Connection: Bluetooth 5.0
    Driver size icon Driver size: 40mm
    Frequency range icon Frequency range: 20Hz – 20,000Hz
    Type: Over-ear | Battery life: 40h+ | Wireless range: 290ft | Noise cancelling: No | Charging: 1h40min | Mic & Controls: Yes | Bluetooth codecs: SBC | Water resistance: None | Features: Foldable, Tile – finy my headphones, quick charging
    • Secure fit even during movement
    • Fun bass and treble boosted V-shaped sound
    • No ambient sound mode
    • Bad noise isolation

    These over-ear headphones have powerful bass and treble boost, producing a fun V-shaped frequency response that’s great for modern bassy music. They’re perfect for runners who prefer to listen to a good beat during a run.

    Thanks to their lightweight design and thick pleather earpads, they’re comfortable to wear and run at a decent speed. But they might move if you try to sprint.

    While they have no water proteciton, they’re well built and can easily survive a sweaty run, just make sure not to leave them our in the rain.

    Their battery life of around 40 hours charges fast, a 10-minute charge gives 3 hours of playtime. Fully charging them takes 1 hour and 40 minutes.

    The only criticism these receive is that they’re rather basic with limited features. There is no Ambient sound mode, no companion app, no active noise cancelling or EQ. So, these are the best for non-demanding users who want to enjoy bassy music without playing with all the settings.

    All in all, if powerful bass is what you want, the Skullcandy Hesh Evo are your top choice.

    Best Running Headphones Under $100

    4. Anker Soundcore Life Q30

    1st-place Best Budget Under $100
    • Stability & Fit: Good stability with gentle clamping force & lightweight body
    • Water resistance: None
    • Ambient sound mode: Turn it on with a press of a button
    Anker Soundcore Life Q30 on a table

    Anker Soundcore Life Q30 are the best budget running headphones under $100 we’ve tested. They stay put when running – Anker Soundcore Life Q30 review.

    Connection icon Connection: Bluetooth 5.0
    Driver size icon Driver size: 40mm
    Frequency range icon Frequency range: 16-40.000Hz
    Type: Over-ear | Battery life: 60h (40h with ANC) | Wireless range: 65ft (20m) | Noise cancelling: Yes, hybrid | Charging: 2h + Quick charge – USB-C | Mic & Controls: Yes | Bluetooth codecs: SBC, AAC | Water resistance: No | Features: ANC, ambient mode, multipoint, mobile app with EQ, NFC
    • Excellent sound quality (after EQ)
    • Great ANC with 3 modes
    • Comfortable fit
    • Companion app with EQ
    • Outstanding battery life
    • The bass isn't very fast
    • Looks bulky on your head

    Hear the Anker Soundcore Life Q30 A/B Sound Test:

    Anker Soundcore Life Q30 Sound Quality Test – HeadphonesAddict

    If you’re looking for solid budget headphones for running that don’t fall off when you run, these are our #1 recommendation. They perform great in all categories and offer amazing value for money for a budget-conscious user

    They have a gentle clamping force, but thanks to a lightweight body, they stay secure during movement. They’re suitable for running and jogging at a decent speed. Thick foam earpads ensure comfort for daily listening.

    Out of the box, they have a V-shaped sound with overpowered bass, but with the EQ options in the companion app, you can adjust it to get a balanced sound. It’s suitable for all music genres and audio content.

    The aluminum frame provides structure, while the earcups are made of plastic, resulting in well-built headphones. They have no water protection but can survive some sweat. Just make sure to not wear them in the rain.

    Their excellent battery life was tested at 44 hours per charge (ANC on). A 5-minute quick charge with a USB-C cable gives 4 hours of playtime. It’s top-notch performance.

    Anker Soundcore Life Q30 battery graph

    And you get plenty of features too: Touch controls and physical button give you easy control, active noise canceling removes background noise, Ambient sound mode allows you to hear your surroundings, and the voice assistant hears your voice commands. The companion app offers plenty of customization from ANC modes, EQ, and Sleep mode. The only options missing is changing what touch controls do and the auto play/pause function.

    In the end, the Anker Soundcore Life Q30 are a no-brainer running headphones if you’re on a budget.

    Best Open Headphones for Perfect Awareness

    5. TOZO OpenReal

    trophy Best for Situational Awareness
    • Stability & Fit: Super stable lightweight design, insensitive to running
    • Water resistance: Fully waterproof IPX8, can be submerged
    • Ambient sound mode: None (not needed)
    TOZO OpenReal for workout

    If you want to hear everything around you when you run, the TOZO OpenReal are the best open headphones for running we’ve tested – TOZO OpenReal review.

    Connection icon Connection: Bluetooth 5.3
    Driver size icon Driver size: 16.2mm dynamic
    Frequency range icon Frequency range: n/a
    Type: Air-conduction | Battery life: 12 hours | Wireless range: 65 feet (20 meters) | Noise cancelling: No | Charging: Quick charge – Proprietary charger | Mic & Controls: Yes (physical & touch) | Bluetooth codecs: SBC, AAC | Water resistance: IPX8 | Features: Custom EQ
    • Incredibly natural tuning, especially after EQ
    • Ergonomic design for rock-solid stability
    • Comfortable to wear & compatible with bike helmets
    • Good battery duration of 12 hours per charge
    • Exceptional Bluetooth indoor range of 65 feet
    • Annoying proprietary charger with weak magnets
    • No support for Bluetooth multipoint or Game mode

    Their biggest advantage is the open-ear design that leaves ears open to the environment. This means you can hear everything that’s going on around you. It’s a crucial feature if you run in traffic or out in nature where you want to hear oncoming vehicles.

    These are made for sports, so they stay stable for running and even a short sprint. Having a familiar shape to bone conduction headphones, they grab around your head quite comfortably and securely. Their fit doesn’t change when you move.

    They sport an IPX8 rating, meaning they’re fully waterproof, suitable for running in torrential rain, washing in water, and even swimming.

    TOZO OpenReal controlling

    We tested the battery life at 12 hours and 3 minutes. It’s more than enough for a few days of running, especially because they get loud even at lower volume settings. Only their proprietary charging cable is a bit annoying due to weak magnets. Find the details in the review.

    The companion app allows equalization of the sound and firmware updates. The built-in microphone does a good job for phone calls during a jog, but there’ no voice prompt of the caller ID. The onboard controls improve ease of use, so you don’t have to take out your phone.

    There’s not much to complain about these, except that they’re specifically made for sports and have no noise isolation for daily listening. So, if you want headphones that perform well for running and casual listening, check another model.

    Best In-Ear Headphones for Running

    6. Jaybird Vista 2

    true-wireless Best Earbuds for Running
    • Stability & Fit: Stable thanks to silicone ear fins
    • Water resistance: Fully dustproof & waterproof IP68 (IPX8)
    • Ambient sound mode: Yes
    Jaybird Vista 2 on the ground

    Jaybird Vista 2 are the best wireless earbuds for running we’ve tested. With fun sound, a fully waterproof design, and a stable fit, they’re perfect for indoor and outdoor runners – Jaybird Vista 2 review.

    Connection icon Connection: Bluetooth 5.0
    Driver size icon Driver size: 6mm
    Frequency range icon Frequency range: 20-20.000Hz
    Type: True wireless | Battery life: 8h + 16h in case | Wireless range: 33ft (10m) | Noise cancelling: Yes | Charging: 2h + quick charge – USB-C & Qi wireless charging | Mic & Controls: Yes | Bluetooth codecs: SBC, AAC | Water resistance: IP68 (IP54 on case) | Features: Ambient mode, mono mode, EQ
    • Great sound for all music genres you can fully customize with EQ & presets
    • They stay comfy and stable in your ears during activity, even when sweaty
    • Can easily survive dust AND water, even submerging
    • 8-hour+ battery provides convenience without worrying about charging
    • Fully customize the earbuds to fit your needs in the companion app
    • Removes background noise with ANC so you can focus on the workout
    • Occasional connection stutters
    • Annoying errors during firmware updates

    For more in-ear options, see the best earbuds for running here.

    If you prefer smaller, portable in-ear headphones that fit in any pocket, the Vista 2 tick all the boxes. These are the best for runners who want convenient headphones for running they can take out of a pocket.

    They provide a comfortable listening experience when running. The included ear tips with fins attach to the earlobe for superior stability. They’re suitable for jogging, running, and even sprinting.

    They have a superior sound in their category. It has a relaxed and slightly V-shaped sound signature, with good extension in the sub-bass. You can tweak their EQ inside the app to make them sound perfect for your music.

    Hear the Jaybird Vista 2 A/B Sound Test:

    Jaybird Vista 2 Sound Quality Test – HeadphonesAddict

    These are the best for running in harsh conditions with IP68 dust and water protection. Thanks to a dustproof and waterproof design and the MIL-STD-810G build quality standard, they can survive a drops, dust and water. The charging case can also withstand a sudden downpour of rain with an IP54 rating.

    Jaybird Vista 2 covered in dirt
    Dust protection is a rare feature but useful for some biomes.

    We tested the battery life at almost 6 hours per charge with ANC on. It increases up to 8 hours without ANC to last through at least a few runs. For a quick fill-up, their Qi wireless charging case supports quick charging, which provides an hour’s worth of listening in 5 minutes.

    They come with decent active noise cancelling, Ambient sound mode called “Surround Sense”, and a companion app with equalization, “Find my earbuds” feature, and control customization. 2 built-in microphones allow phone calls wherever you are.

    These are perfect portable headphones you can easily tuck in a pocket and take out when needed. They’re suitable for indoor and outdoor running in all conditions.

    for more in-ears, we made a separate guide on the top running earbuds.

    Related:

    Honorable Mentions to Consider

    7. Beats PowerBeats Pro

    Beats PowerBeats Pro review

    These are great running headphones with ear hooks and a punchy bass sound. They’re sweatproof and provide a stable fit for most cases, but if you sprint, the in-ear fit loosens and reduces the bass.

    Beats PowerBeats Pro review

    8. Beats Studio Pro

    Beats Studio Pro

    The Studio Pro are the best Beats headphones for running thanks to a stable fit suitable for jogging. If you want to run in style with a cool brand, these are the top option.

    Check Beats Studio Pro price

    9. Plantronics BackBeat FIT 6100

    Plantronics BackBeat Fit 6100

    These are a bit older but still solid sweatproof over-ear headphones for running. They have an IPX5 water protection, adjustable headband for a stable fit, and 24-hour battery life. You can connect them to any Bluetooth device.

    Check Plantronics BackBeat FIT 6100 price

    10. Koss SportaPro

    Koss SportaPro

    These retro on-ear headphones are super cheap and lightweight. They have great sound quality for $30, but they only come with a 3.5mm cable. If you’re in the market for wired headphones for running, these are pretty cool.

    Check SportaPro price

    How We Test

    We test headphones on 9 key points that are important for users; see our testing and scoring methodology for all the details.

    We combine objective measurements like frequency response graphs and ANC effectiveness with hands-on experience. This helps us compare and pick the best-performing models that we can confidently recommend.

    For example, to test water protection, we spray the headphones with water. If they’re fully waterproof, we submerge them in water and see if they still work afterward. To test the fit, we do a head-shaking test, which gives us a general idea of headphone stability. For sports models like these, we also test them for walking and running.

    How did we choose the models?

    To pick the top models, we focused on the stability of the fit when running and moving,

    the quality of the Ambient sound mode that lets you stay aware on the run, and water resistance. Most headphones don’t have official water protection, but most work fine even if you sweat.

    We choose from 193 tested headphones and those we have tried. Then, we ranked them for different use cases and prices.

    Can You Run With Over-Ear Headphones?

    You can run with over-ear headphones if they stay STABLE when running.

    Preferably, the headphones should fit snugly but not too tightly to be uncomfortable. Look for models with a stronger clamping force and a lightweight body. Also, look for water resistance if you run outside, even in rainy weather.

    But most over-ear headphones have a loose fit that eventually makes them fall off. And there are other factors to consider. Follow the guide below.

    Not a runner meme

    Are headphones good for jogging?

    Because jogging is basically slower running, big headphones are more suitable for jogging than running.

    Slower speeds put smaller forces on headphones when jogging, resulting in a lower chance of them falling off. You might get away with jogging with bigger and heavier headphones, but this depends on personal style and speed.

    It’s still best to pick headphones with a decent clamping force and lightweight body to ensure good stability.

    Comparison of running with headphones vs earbuds

    Here are the key differences between running with headphones and earbuds:

    HeadphonesEarbuds
    StabilityMay slip off during fast runningGenerally more secure, designed with ear hooks
    & wings
    ComfortMore comfortableSmaller & lighter, comfy for longer periods
    Water resistanceGenerally not resistantMost are sweatproof or waterproof
    Sound qualityLarger drivers, better soundSmaller drivers, varying quality
    AwarenessGreat with Ambient sound modeGreat with Ambient sound mode
    Noise isolationDepends on modelDepends on model
    PortabilityBig, bulky, less portableSmaller, pocketable
    BatteryLonger, 20h+Shorter, 6h+
    Build qualityProne to damage due to sizeRobust & durable design

    How to Pick Headphones for Running

    Before you pick your running headphones, consider these points:

    Water resistance: Yes/No?

    If you run outside in all weather, including heavy rain, or if you’re a heavy sweater, you need water-resistant headphones. We recommend IPX4 or more for protection against rain and sweat.

    If you run inside on a treadmill, you don’t need water protection. It might be useful if you sweat a lot, but it’s not crucial. Most headphones without water resistance can handle some sweat.

    Treblab Z7 Pro water-resistance test
    Treblab Z7 Pro are sweatproof and rain-resistant over-ear headphones.

    Related: See the most durable earbuds on the market.

    Stable fit is CRUCIAL

    Stability is the most important thing when choosing over-ear headphones for running. If they don’t stay on, you won’t be able to run with them. And most big, bulky headphones aren’t suitable.

    • Read the reviews that comment on stability when running before buying them.
    • Try all fitting options before giving up on a pair; sometimes, you have to learn how to put them on.

    P.S. If no over-ear headphones fit your head for running, you might want to consider earbuds. See why in earbuds vs. headphones guide.

    People running
    Make sure headphones sit securely on your head before starting to run.

    What kind of sound do you like?

    Sound quality is important but not crucial. You probably don’t focus on sonic details during a run. There are too many distractions.

    But, you want an engaging sound profile that makes you push towards the finish line.

    • Many people prefer a bass-boosted sound signature, that’s great for modern music like hip hop, rap, pop.
    • A well-balanced sound signature is suitable for all music genres (look for equalization in the app).
    • If you mainly listen to audiobooks and podcasts, any decent headphones will do.
    Sony WH-1000XM5 find my equalizer
    In-app equalization ensures you get a sound you like.

    There is no “best sound”. It comes down to a personal preference.

    Noise isolation vs. situational awareness

    There are 3 types of headphones: Closed-back and open-back regular headphones, and open-ear headphones.

    Closed-backOpen-backOpen-ear
    Noise attenuationHighLowNone
    AwarenessLowHighPerfect
    Music leakageLowHighHigher
    BassStrongerWeakerWeaker
    Best for runningIndoor, gymOutside, streets, roadsOutside, streets, roads

    Closed-back headphones have far superior noise attenuation of external noise. They’re the best for running inside when you want to keep private or in nature, on a safe path where you don’t have to worry about traffic. They don’t bother other gym-goers with sound leakage and have an overall bassier sound profile.

    Treblab Z7 Pro on a branch
    Most headphones are closed-back with fully enclosed earcups that don’t let out any air.

    Open-back headphones leak a lot more ambient noise in and out, which isn’t bad if you want to hear your surroundings. It’s useful if you’re running on streets where being aware and hearing traffic is a must. Generally, they have a more natural sound.

    Open-ear headphones like air-conduction and bone-conduction headphones have a headband design and leave your ears completely open to the environment, giving you perfect situational awareness. These are best for runners who want maximum safety when running.

    Best open ear headphones
    These are open-ear headphones, highly popular among runners.

    Comfort always plays a role

    When you’re physically exerting yourself, the last thing you want is getting your ears rubbed the wrong way.

    • Look for thick headband padding and earpads.
    • Preferably, you want replaceable earpads to ensure longevity.

    Control of the music

    Do you want a convenient way to change the songs and volume without touching your phone?

    Most wireless headphones have built-in controls. The only difference is what controls they support. Apart from controlling music and volume, the better models also support voice assistants, Ambient mode activation, EQ mode adjustment, etc.

    Sony WH-1000XM5 in the park
    Touch controls are a fancy way to command your headphones.

    To sum up…

    There are no perfect running headphones. But if you decide on the important features you want, they’ll serve you well for years. You should look to avoid unstable fit, annoying lack of useful features, and horrible sound quality.

    Man running with on-ear sport headphones
    Wired headphones should be avoided for running unless you really don’t mind them.

    FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

    Do headphones fall off when running?

    Many headphones fall off when running. But there are some full-sized models with a strong clamping force and a lightweight body that stay on the head. These are the best for comfortable running and jogging without having earbuds stuck in the ears.

    Can I use AirPods for running?

    You can use AirPods for running, but they’re not the best option. Regular AirPods have relatively poor stability and can easily fall out of your ears. AirPods Max are big and clumsy, they’re decent only for slow jogging. AirPods Pro are the best for running, thanks to the in-ear fit.

    Can you run with wireless headphones?

    Wireless headphones are the best for running because wires don’t get in the way. Running wire-free is much more convenient, and today, there’s no reason why you should pick wired over wireless headphones.

    What style of headphones are best for running?

    Generally, sports earbuds with ear wings or hooks are the best for running. Lightweight headphones with a strong clamping force are also suitable, especially if you want more comfort.

    Are headphones or earphones better for running?

    Generally, it’s better to use earbuds for running. They’re lightweight, don’t need a strong clamping force to keep them in place, and don’t cause sweaty ears like full-sized headphones. but if you dislike earbuds, over-ear headphones are the more comfortable option, as long as you don’t run too fast.

    We did a more thorough examination of this topic in a separate article about headphones vs. earbuds.

    1 Comment
    1. Go for Rowkin. It’s small in size, great sound quality, well priced, good at noise cancelling and many other cool features. Perfect for running and working out.

      Reply

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