When you’re running a mile, dashing a hundred meters, or jogging around town, the last thing you want to contend with is a lackluster pair of headphones or earbuds. And when we say “lackluster,” we mean things like poor sound quality, an uncomfortable fit, weak noise cancellation, and limited battery life. After all, nothing should get in the way of you and your exercise.
We’re glad to report that many amazing headphone and earbud options are tailor-made for putting feet on the pavement, or at least a treadmill. And this list includes all the best options for runners.
Top headphones and earbuds for all runners
Beats Powerbeats Pro Wireless Earbuds
Superb sound, long battery life, and stabilizing ear clips
The Powerbeats Pro Wireless Earbuds are a standout option if you’re looking for secure-fitting, great-sounding earbuds. Along with a battery life of up to 9 hours without a charging case, these earbuds prioritize comfort with a flexible ear clip design and ear tips. IPX4 certification also means that the Powerbeats Pro should stand up to sweaty situations.
- Great sound
- Secure, comfortable fit for most runners
- Physical playback and call buttons
- Can get expensive
- Charging case is somewhat bulky
- No active noise cancellation
The Powerbeats Pro wireless earbuds deliver a sweet-spot combination of clear, powerful sound along with a great design that will mesh well with most runners. You’ll find plenty of punchy bass on tap, along with well-balanced mids and highs, creating an energetic sound field perfect for workouts. However, you won’t get any sort of active noise cancellation (ANC) here. Bendy ear hooks help dial in a snug fit, and ear tips are included in four variations for multiple ear sizes. Battery life is rated for up to 9 hours of listening, which compares favorably with their stablemate, the Apple AirPods, which don’t offer a form factor optimized for vigorous exercise.
Beats Powerbeats Pro review: Stuck in my head
These earbuds have no problem staying put, but may be a little iOS-centric for most Android fans
Not only is the battery life on the Powerbeats better than AirPods, but the sound quality has been noted to be better than even the AirPods Pro. Rounding out the most useful features for active users, the Powerbeats Pro have physical playback and call controls. A few minor features, like autoplay and single earbud listening mode, will not work on Android, but this isn’t a major drawback. And while the charging case might be relatively bulky, it increases combined playback to around 24 hours.
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds
Immersive Audio deepens the soundstage
A nice step-up from the QuietComfort Earbuds II, the Bose QC Ultra Earbuds improve sound and ANC performance, while providing wearers with Bose’s latest Immersive Audio tech for virtualized spatial audio.
- Some of the best ANC in town
- Aware Mode is great at filtering sound in
- Comfortable fit
- Pricey
- So-so battery life
Bose headphones and earbuds are some of the best audio devices money can buy. Recently, the company released the all-new Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds, which are meant to replace the original QuietComfort II buds, and we think they’re fantastic! But why are they great for running, you may be asking? It’s a little feature called Aware Mode.
With this setting engaged, the outside world gets filtered in, so you’ll be able to hear important sounds like sirens and street traffic, while still indulging in your go-to playlists. Quiet Mode and Bose’s Immersive Audio Mode are the other listening presets.
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds review: Sounds familiar
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The QC Ultra Earbuds are also pretty decent when it comes to water resistance (IPX4) and battery life (up to 6 hours on a single charge), but the Aware Mode is the biggest win of all.
JLab Go Air Sport
Sturdy at a fraction of the cost
The JLab Go Air Sport are slim, affordable, and powerful headphones for running. These earbuds provide a great sound that can be adjusted with advanced EQ settings. With over 32 hours of battery life, IP55 sweat and water resistance, and the secure ear hook design, this pair is great for any workout, all at an affordable cost.
- 32-hour battery life
- Touch controls included
- Affordable
- Lower waterproof rating
- No active noise cancellation
The JLab Go Air Sport wireless earbuds are made for running. With flexible ear hooks, there’s no chance that the rigors of a jog will pop a bud out and ruin your timing. Furthermore, their silicone construction is flexible, light, and comfortable for long workouts. With long bouts of activity in mind, battery life will support multiple lengthy uses, offering about 32 hours.
The headphones also have touch controls for track and audio management as well as for answering calls and activating a phone’s smart assistant. So there’s minimal interruption during valuable workout time. With the integrated microphone and advanced EQ sound settings, calls are clear and easy to activate or end and with the rich bass, any pump-up jam will sound great while running. The JLab Go Air Sport headphones are a great option on a budget. However, there are a few downsides. The IP55 waterproof rating is lower than many other earbuds and headphones for exercise, meaning that they are more likely to be damaged by water, which is not ideal when sweat is inevitable.
Another caveat is that these headphones do not have active noise cancellation, meaning that surrounding noises can still be heard. The lack of ANC may be a deal-breaker for some, but a desirable feature for outdoor runners who need to be aware of their surroundings. Overall, despite a couple of lackluster specifications, the JLab Go Air Sport are still a great pair of running headphones with impressive features that won’t break the bank.
Sennheiser Sport
Long battery life in a purpose-built format for athletes
Sennheiser has been making great-sounding headphones since 1945. The company’s high audio performance standards extend to the Sennheiser Sport True Wireless earbuds. While there are a few pain points, the buds are nonetheless a compelling option for runners prioritizing sound quality.
- Superb sound
- Long battery life
- Customizable EQ settings
- Lacks active noise cancellation
- A little bulky
- No multi-device support
In terms of overall design, the Sport True Wireless earbuds look cool enough with blacked-out styling and a gold Sennheiser logo. While they’re not the sleekest earbuds on the market, they do include multiple ear tip sets and fins to help provide a secure active fit. One knock against them is that switching between ambient and sealed sound modes literally requires changing the ear tips. That’s not very practical, but it’s forgivable if you’re a set-and-forget type of person.
What you’ll really want the Sennheiser Sport True Wireless earbuds for, though, is the detailed and enveloping sound with a good but not overblown bass response. Sennheiser’s Smart Control app provides some handy sound customization modes that allow you to tweak things like the EQ.
An IP54 rating means the Sport True Wireless earbuds are solidly dust and water-resistant. In other words, they’re designed to withstand sweaty workouts but shouldn’t be put under the faucet or taken for a swim. Overall, the Sport True Wireless earbuds are worth a hard look for active users who prioritize good sound.
JBL Endurance Peak 3
A great fit and big bass in a waterproof sports design
This pair stands out for its bass-forward sound and stable fit derived from a sport-centric ear hook design combined with ear tips. Of course, the sound can be adjusted with the advanced EQ settings in the app. An IP68 rating means the Endurance Peak 3 are dust and waterproof, further cementing them as a great option for running and other demanding pursuits.
- Secure ear-clip design is ideal for running
- Good battery life
- IP68 dust and waterproof rating
- Earbuds and case are somewhat bulky
- Lack ANC
- Controls and auto-off take some getting used to
The Endurance Peak 3 offer a great ear hook design for those who need it, which makes them great for running. They also come with three earpiece sets to accommodate varying ear sizes, and the ear hooks are bendable.
Overall sound quality is clear and detailed in the mid-and-highs. Some users may find the bass a bit on the boomy side, but you can EQ that out in the app if it’s not your thing. The buds feature an ambient mode designed to make it easier to have conversations by letting in outside sound. And you’ll be able to listen for 10 hours per charge and an extra 40 hours from the case.
Controlling the buds using the touch sensors on the housing can take a little getting used to, and the auto-off function is a double-edged sword that’s activated whenever you remove the earbuds, even for just a moment. It’s also worth noting that the Endurance Peak 3 do not have ANC, and the components are on the bulky side. However, the Endurance Peak 3 excel at what matters most for running by delivering a comfy, highly secure fit, rugged design, great battery life, and enough bass to keep you moving.
Jabra Elite 8 Active
Premium comfort meets premium sound
Jabra consistently releases some of the most noteworthy earbud products, and nothing says ‘tough performance’ and ‘powerful ANC’ like the ultra-comfy, powerful-sounding Jabra Elite 8 Active.
- Rigorous IP rating and terrific fit
- Very good sound and call quality
- Great ANC and transparency modes
- Expensive
The Jabra Elite 8 Active are the type of rain-or-shine earbuds we should all have a pair of. An IP68 rating means exceptional dirt and dust protection, and a nearly weatherproof design. Even the charging case carries a strong IP57 rating. The Elite 8 Active buds fit nice and snug too, so even the most heavy-duty workouts shouldn’t jostle them out.
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Waterproof, shockproof, and ready for anything
Jabra always means business when it comes to noise cancelling, and the Elite 8 Active deliver incredible performance across both ANC and transparency modes. With ANC enabled, you’ll get up to eight listening hours per bud, and the wireless charging case stores up to 24 additional hours.
Shokz OpenRun Pro Headphones
A safe, comfortable, and cool premium option for running
Bone conduction headphones like the Shokz OpenRun Pro utilize your cheekbones to conduct sound to your cochleas. Unlike traditional earpieces, the headphones have units in front of the ears, held by a rear-facing neckband. This design doesn’t block ear canals; the open style enhances running safety while preventing ears from overheating.
- Safe and comfortable open bone-conduction design
- Long battery life
- Better sound than other bone conduction models
- Case doesn’t offer built-in charging
- Relatively expensive
Bone conduction headphones are sometimes knocked for their audio quality since they don’t sit in the ear, but the Shokz OpenRun Pro sound better than most, offering sufficient bass in particular. That said, some users may find the mid-range response somewhat overpronounced. Should you wish to tweak the sound a bit, the Shokz app offers some basic customizations.
Battery life is important for runners, especially for those who forget to plug in after workouts. The OpenRun Pro headphones don’t disappoint here, offering 10 hours of playtime on a full charge and around 1.5 hours from just a 5-minute charge. They come with a case that does its job but doesn’t provide charging — for that, you’ll need to plug into another power source.
Multipoint pairing, a reasonable expectation at premium price points, means you don’t have to manually switch between Bluetooth devices. While not the highest water-resistance rating on our list, an IP55 designation means the headphones can easily handle sweat and even run in the rain. Overall, there’s quite a lot to like in the Shokz’s lightweight, purpose-built design for intense workouts like running.
Plantronics BackBeat Fit 6100
Over-ear-headphones for an active lifestyle
The BackBeat Fit 6100 by Plantronics is a great over-ear option for runners. With the use of wireless technology and a sport-fit headband, this headset is a great option for running. The 40mm angled drivers generate a great, rich sound, while awareness mode allows for listening to music while letting outside noise in.
- Up to 24-hour battery life
- Awareness Mode
- Flexible headband
- Heavier than smaller headphones
On-ear headphones can be tricky when it comes to purchasing them for exercise due to their weight, size, and design, but Plantronics solved a lot of the qualms of using headsets for running with their Backbeat Fit 6100. The 6100 is a Bluetooth, noise-cancelling headset that provides a great sound while remaining comfortable. The ear cups are sound-proof but can be enabled to allow outside sounds in Awareness Mode to ensure a safe outdoor run.
Not only is the Backbeat Fit noise-cancelling but it provides a great, rich sound, which can be hard to find on fitness headsets. The Backbeat uses 40 mm drivers with sound-proof ear cups to provide a pristine and powerful music experience through any workout. While most on-ear headsets can be rigid and even annoying to run with, the Backbeat comes with a flexible fitness headband that allows the headset to be breathable and adjustable for maximum comfort. With an IPX5 waterproof rating, the Backbeat is sweatproof and can handle some weather but not as well as some of the other models listed.
A major perk of this model is the battery life, which can last up to 24 hours when fully charged. This is by far one of the longer-lasting headsets on our list and provides a great alternative to earbuds while providing a superb sound experience. Just be mindful that this device weighs out at just a little over half a pound, which is light for an on-ear headset but heavier than most of the other models listed. Other than the weight difference, this is a great alternative to in-ear headphones or earbuds for running.
Anker SoundCore Life Q20
BassUp is sure to add some extra adrenaline
Earbuds are all the rage, but you can still have a great run with a nice pair of headphones. The Soundcore Anker Life Q20 certainly fit the bill, thanks to features like impressive battery life, comfortable padding, and an insane amount of bass.
- Inexpensive
- Great battery life
- Terrific bass presence
- Not ideal for rainy runs
- Bluetooth connection can be finicky
Wireless earbuds are the ideal choice for a jog, but not everyone can get over the in-ear sensation. This is why we’ve included a couple of headset options, one of which is the Soundcore Anker Life Q20. While these won’t be the headphones you grab when you go for a run in the pouring rain (please don’t do that), they deliver big in three key areas: battery, comfort, and bass.
On a full charge, you can expect the Anker Life Q20 to last for up to 60 hours with ANC disabled. With noise-cancelling switched on, you’ll still get up to 40 hours (when operating at 60% volume). And just 5 minutes of recharging nets you an extra 4 hours of playback.
As far as comfort goes, the Q20 have memory foam cups, ensuring a great fit that can keep up with your active lifestyle. We’re also big fans of Soundcore’s proprietary BassUp Technology, which adds just the right amount of thump to your soundstage. Even if you’re not a low-end fan, you’d be surprised how much influence a little extra rumble can have on your running pace.
JBL Tune 510BT
JBL is keeping things simple with the Tune 510BT
They’re not going to change the world, but the JBL Tune 510BT is a budget-friendly set of cans that will definitely impact your next run. Thanks to features like JBL’s Pure Bass Sound, you’ll have plenty of heart-pumping motivation.
- Great sound quality
- Solid ANC
- Good battery life
- Ear cup padding can wear down over time
- Not as advanced as other headsets
Sometimes you just need a product that gets the job done, no questions asked. It may not even matter how well the task is accomplished. But JBL isn’t about to go down as basic, folks. If you need a solid set of running headphones, the JBL 510BT certainly fits the bill. They’re lightweight, pack a ton of bass, and deliver long battery life. Plus, they sound really great (especially for the price).
Do keep in mind that most headphones won’t hold up well in the rain though. If you’re planning on using these for running, and Mother Nature is none so pleased, we suggest keeping your foot-to-surface activities to a treadmill. We’ve also read a few reports of the ear cup materials breaking down over time, so it’s extra important to keep these cans as moisture-free as possible.
Selecting the best headphones or earbuds for running
With all the brands and features that exist, selecting the right pair of headphones for running can be tedious. Earbuds, over-ear, and bone-conduction models all have the potential to produce great sound, but when it’s time to work out, sound isn’t the only consideration.
Comfort, waterproofing, and design are just as important. Ill-fitting earbuds or over-ear headphones will need disruptive adjustments, and models with inadequate IP ratings can sustain damage from sweat or rain, both of which can be encountered on a run. Anything with a waterproof rating of IP66 should withstand rain and spraying water, but anything lower risks damage.
Battery life should also be prioritized; headphones and earbuds must maintain power during a workout. This spec drastically varies across all models, including the products on this list. While each pick should last long enough for a workout, if they are intended to pull double duty during downtime, a pair with lasting battery life will be necessary.
It should also be noted that some earbuds with cases will state the battery life of the case, which can be for days, while the earbuds themselves may last 6 to 9 hours on a single charge.
Don’t forget to add running environments into the equation. ANC is nice while indoors, but such finite sound filtration should be adjusted when outdoors or in public for safety. Features like Awareness Mode or ambient sound pass-through will accommodate this need.
Great headphones or earbuds for your next run
Going for a run is one of the best types of cardio you can introduce to your weekly exercise routine. Add a little outdoors to your jog, and your brain and body will be even happier. But no dash is complete without an excellent pair of headphones or earbuds, providing the soundtrack for all your uphill struggles. This is why we’ve selected the Beats Powerbeats Pro Wireless as our best overall pick.
Not only do the Powerbeats Pro deliver the kind of propulsive sound you’ll want for your footfalls, but they fit extremely well, too. Unfortunately, the ear hook design doesn’t accommodate ANC capabilities, but the idea is to keep your inner ear free of obstructions with these bad boys. If you’re all about premium performance though, we recommend the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds.
We’ve been singing the praises of Bose products for years now, and the revamped QuietComfort buds are a thing of beauty. As far as sound quality goes, it’s hard to beat the Bose buds’ arresting soundstage, but what we’re really excited about is the chart-topping ANC. You’ll be hard-pressed to hear a peep when you’re wearing these, so it’s good that Bose thought to include an Aware Mode, too.
If you’d prefer to save a few bucks, we suggest choosing the JLab Go Air Sport buds. We’re back to an ear hook design with these in-ears, so that means no ANC support. But what you will get is up to 32 hours of battery life, an IP55 rating, and awesome sound quality.
Beats Powerbeats Pro Wireless Earbuds
For the best running headphones or earbuds, our money goes to the Beats Powerbeats Pro Wireless. Thanks to ear hooks, you won’t have to worry about them flying off during a jog. They also last for up to 9 hours on a full charge, and deliver amazing sound quality (even without ANC!).
