Pounding a treadmill and pavements is definitely good. Running enhances both mental and physical wellbeing. It engages the body as well as the brain. However, this activity can also get boring. As a result, it’s important to look for devices that can power you up.
Music can effectively power up your workouts. Whether you are indoors or outdoors, musical inspiration is crucial. Playing your favorite jams will running will obviously lead to better productivity. But what are some of the best running headphones? Besides that, what are some of the characteristics you should consider? Well, this article gives a review of our top 7 choices.
Top Headphones for Running
There are indeed thousands of headphones. However, there are some brands that have certainly managed to stand out. They sell exceptionally functional headphones for running. The top headphones for running in 2020 include:
1. Apple AirPods

These ultra-light AirPods simply make you work out experience fun. They are fully wireless that also provide wireless connection. They perfectly fit and provide wearers with comfort. They are specifically designed to offer flexibility during physical activities.
Apple AirPods are indeed amazing. They work well as mono or stereo headsets. So, you can simply use one bud or both. It should be noted they are equipped to fully focus on your voice. According to Apple, these are exceptional earphones which have beam-forming microphones. As a result, they quickly detect the sound of your voice. This is important for making and receiving calls.
Additionally, they come with dual optical sensors. Besides that, each piece has accelerometers. So, you can easily connect them to iPad, iPhone, or Mac devices. Note that the connected device can clearly detect if you are wearing these devices. So, the device can pause music when one or both of them are removed.
View On AmazonKey Features
- Flawlessly connects with Apple Music and Spotify.
- Versatility: the Air Pods can work either as mono or stereo headsets.
- W1 Chip: facilitates seamless pairing with Apple devices.
Pros
- Ultra-lightweight devices.
- They are fully wireless.
- They seamlessly pair with other Apple devices.
Cons
- They can’t fit more securely in some ears.
- Open design easily facilitate noise leaks.
- Extremely expensive.
2. Beats by Dr. Dre Powerbeats Pro
You want to beat your workout routine, well then buy Beats! Well… these are undoubtedly some of the best running phones. Beats by Dr. Dre are, without doubt, powerful headphones. These wireless powerhouses absolutely deliver in terms of performance.
First, the sound quality and secure fit are particularly top notch. Reviews show that the sheer sound quality is indeed amazing. Additionally, they are adjustable and provide a customizable fit. The ear tip options are importantly beneficial for extended comfort. Powerbeats Pro is specifically designed for high-performance workouts. So, it’s suitable for elite athletes and workout enthusiasts.
Are in you in for extended training? Well, there’s certainly no need to worry. This is because each earbud has up to 9 hours of listening time. So, it doesn’t matter how long will be out. And if you are using the charging case, you’ll get over 24 hours of combined playback. You definitely don’t want to miss out on this.
View On AmazonKey Features
- Totally wireless running headphones.
- A high-performance device which effectively offers long-lasting audio play.
- Power and play with up to 9 hours of listening time.
- Comfort and stability: multiple adjustment options.
- Volume and track controls for each earbud.
Pros
- Great sound production.
- Perfectly fit.
- Exceptionally great controls and connectivity.
Cons
- Fairly expensive.
- Can be boomy and bassy.
3. Jabra Elite Sport True Wireless Earbuds
It’s rated as the most technically advanced earbuds. Well, these headphones are clearly among the best in the game. They are designed to effectively cater to the needs of the user. for instance, they provide a combined 13.5 of playtime. Besides that, these earbuds have superior sound quality.
Elite Sport is absolutely perfect for intense workouts. This is because it is fully waterproof. In addition to that, it also comes with a built-in heart rate monitor. So, fitness analyzer can monitor you while running.
View On AmazonIt should be noted that you can pair this device to the Jabra app. These are sporty yet stylish headphones that efficiently facilitate your sports life. They provide in-ear precision for perfectly optimized workouts.
Key Features
- Superior sound quality: they contain two microphones which efficiently filter out background noise.
- All-day power: conveniently enjoy up to 9 hours of battery life.
- Comfort and secure fit: comfortably enjoy customizable fitting options.
- Advanced heart rate monitor for optimized workouts.
Pros
- Sweat and splash-proof.
- A bass-heavy sound that’s absolutely great for workouts.
- Largely accurate heart rate monitor.
Cons
- It’s huge hence potentially difficult to fit.
- Can be uncomfortable for long wear.
4. Beats PowerBeats 3

This is an upgraded Beats headphones that without a doubt great. Power Beats 3 is definitely where power meets endurance. They take hours of training simply amazing by efficiently providing long-lasting audio play. These headphones provide users with up to 12 hours of battery life! Additionally, they have an optimized design. This helps to effortlessly provide wearers with immersive sound and comfort.
Power Beats 3 is a water and sweat proof device. As a result, it’s suitable for intense workouts. Whether it’s raining or not, you can always wear them out. It should be noted that they are always ready. Well, this is because you spend less time charging. For instance, a 5-minute charge can last you for more than an hour.
Overall, these wireless headphones are unstoppable. They importantly have an ergonomic design. Apart from that, they also clearly produce dynamic audio. This is efficiently facilitated by the dual-driver acoustics. And for comfort fit, they have multiple ear tip options.
View On AmazonKey Features
- Connectivity technology: Wirelessly Connect via Class 1 Bluetooth.
- Long-lasting audio play: Up to 12 hours of battery life. So, they can effectively power multiple workouts.
- Siri support: you can conveniently take calls and control your music. Additionally, you can activate Siri with Remote Talk.
- Fast-charge: It should be noted that a 5-minute charge gives you 1 hour of playback
- Sweat and water resistance: fully handle tough training.
- Flexible and secure-fit ear hooks for comfort and stability.
Pros
- Improved fit and powerful audio.
- Perfectly handles tough workouts.
- Comfortable fit and reliable operation.
- Exceptionally strong battery life.
Cons
- Competing models are certainly cheap.
5. Jaybird X3 Wireless Bluetooth Headphones
They are simply comfortable and of good quality. These X3 wireless headphones are significantly popular among runners. First, they are slightly smaller. Therefore, they make workout activities such as running manageable.
Secondly, these earphones allow you to power your passion. They perfectly handle intense and sweaty workouts. This is because they are mud, seat, water, and tear-proof. They are uniquely designed with a hydrophobic Nano-coating. As a result, they effectively keep all forms of moisture away.
Besides that, they also have long battery life. X3 has an 8-hour battery life and a charging time of 2.5 hours. This means that a 20-minute charge can easily give you’re an hour of playtime. It should be noted that it also comes with My Sound APP. This program allows you to easily create a personalized experienced.
View On AmazonOverall, these mini-wireless buds provide a universal secure fit. So, you can comfortably run while wearing them. Besides that, you can lock them during intense physical workouts. Moreover, the silicon also helps to ensure that external noise is completely eliminated.
Key Features
- Universal secure fit: they securely fit thanks to the patented silicone eat fins.
- Sweat-proof: they are certainly great for workouts in all weather conditions.
- Long battery life: a 2.5-hour charge can give you 8 hours of continuous playtime.
Pros
- Excellent adaptable sound.
- Durable and compact design hence attractive.
Cons
- It frequently produces intermittent signals.
6. RHA TrueConnect
These headphones have some similarity to Apple AirPods. Thy suit perfectly any type of workout. These are true wireless devices which come with a 3-year warranty. True Connect can be used continuously for 5 hours. It should be noted that using it with a charging case is even better. You will end up with almost 20 hours of audio time. This means that fast charging it for 15 minutes can lead to 2.5 hours of playtime.
View On AmazonThis is a waterproof device that can effectively be used at any time. It’s water-resistant and sweat proof. So, you can use the headphones even when it’s raining. For exceptionally great connectivity, it has Bluetooth 5. Its silicon ear tips fit in snugly. These are indeed true wireless earbuds.
Key Features
- 5hrs playback from a single charge: Additionally, it provides 20hr of playtime when used with the charging case.
- Sweat-proof and water resistant: this device has IPX5 certification for durable performance.
- Bluetooth 5 and stem design for exceptionally great connectivity.
- Securely fit with Comply Foam and silicone ear tips. They are designed specifically for truly wireless earbuds.
- Frequency range: 20-20,000 Hz
- 3-year warranty.
Pros
- Excellent audio that truly meets user needs.
- Snugly and comfortably fit.
Con
- Pairing issues with other devices.
7. Soundcore Spirit Sports by Anker
Effectively power your workouts with these earphones. Spirit Sports perfectly deliver crystal-clear sounds. Besides that, they securely fit. These ergonomic earphones have snugly ear tips and ear hooks. As a result, they hold firmly in place.
Spirit Sport utilizes Bass Up technology. It exclusively analyzes your music. Thereafter, it produces bass with breathtaking clarity and depth. These earphones absolutely improve your workout time. They provide up to 8 hours of listening time. This just from a single charge.
To ensure that you can carry out intense workouts, have a sweat guard. This technology means that you can also use them when it’s raining. It should be noted that Spirit contains Hydrophobic Nano-coating that’s waterproof.
Key Features
- Sweat guard protection and a secure fit for exhilarating workouts.
- Premium composite drivers which simply deliver crystal-clear sounds.
- Enhanced bass and soaring treble.
- Passive noise cancellation which efficiently reduces ambient noise.
- Snugly fits you: Spirit is fitted with ergonomic Ear Tips and Ear Wings. Additionally, they come in multiple sizes to anchor Spirit in position.
- Long-Lasting Endurance: Spirit is exceptionally engineered with a premium Li-ion battery. Furthermore, it has exclusive power management technology. As a result, this ultra-efficient combination powers up to 8 hours of non-stop music.
- Convenient for calls: the built-in 3-button remote allows you to conveniently answer calls.
Pros
- Very waterproof indeed
- Cost-friendly
- Perfectly acceptable audio
- Snugly fit
Cons
- Obviously can’t compete with the pricier options.
- Below average audio quality
Picking a Good Running Headphones for Yourself
Before picking a headphone, you should know where and when you will be running. Is it outside or inside? Are you using a treadmill or not? Well, when and how to use these devices is absolutely important. This is because:
- Getting a comfortable and stable fit is crucial.
- An all-weather device is important for protection. So, the earphones need to be waterproof.
- Consider the type of noise isolation that you need.
- Don’t forget the type of sound you like. It should be noted that an engaging sound is indeed a great motivator.
- Ambient sound is important for outdoor use.
- Long-lasting battery life is absolutely crucial.
Characteristics of Good Headphones for Running
There are so many headphones for running. However, not all of them have the same features. They are uniquely designed by different brands. As a result, they have different functionalities. But what are some of the features of good headphones? Besides that, what are the characteristics of headphones that are suitable for running? Well, below are some of the features that you should particularly consider.
- Sweat Resistance
‘Normal’ headphones can still work well for running. However, they are not the best option. When running, the body temperatures significantly changes. As a result, you may end up sweating. Apart from that, the weather may not be conducive every time. This is because there are times when there will be rain. So, it’s important to get a device that’s waterproof.
- Connectivity
There are all sorts of headphones designed for sports. So, there are those which have the cable design. Although some have cables that fit around your head, they are not great. You risk getting your ears and neck entangled. This is highly risky and may result in injuries.
If you are an active athlete, it’s best to get wireless headphones. This helps to reduce clutter and the risk of injuries. The best running headphones are actually true wireless. They usually make workouts more fun and enjoyable. Besides that, they are lightweight. Wireless connectivity ensures that you have interrupted workouts.
- Durability
Durability is important for any electronic devices. Good running headphones should, therefore, be durable. This is important for reducing wear and tear. When working out, there are chances that your headphones will fall. So, they should be durable enough to sustain wear and tear.
Other Features of Running Headphones
- Comfy Fit
There is nothing more annoying than earbuds that are loose. This is so annoying especially if you want to stay focused. Note that movements and vibrations may interfere with a comfy fit. They should snugly fit to enhance your productivity. This is certainly important if you normally run for long hours.
- Ambient Sound
Most people want to hear their tunes as they workout. This definitely helps them to stay motivated. Besides that, the headphones should block out the world. Overall, running headphones should sound good. Ambient sound favors bottom-end and mid-range tones.
- Battery Life
Long-lasting battery life is definitely important. Some people work for hours hence a good device should sustain this. Generally, good running headphones should have around 9 hours of playtime. Additionally, they should have almost 20 hours of playtime with a charging case.
- Situational Awareness
This is very important, especially if you are running in a busy area. It should be noted that a lot of people don’t like deafening headphones. This is because it leaves them highly exposed. Well, they risk getting attacked by muggers. Additionally, they could be in danger of traffic. So, a great pair of headphones should be suitable for situational awareness. They are specifically designed to let ambient sound through.
Final Thoughts
There are indeed thousands of headphones. The market place is filled with a wide range of brands. So, getting good headphones can be absolutely challenging. However, understanding certain features can certainly make the whole process easier. Good headphones for running should snugly fit and waterproof.
Besides that, they should have long-lasting battery life. This is without a doubt important for intense and prolonged workouts. Additionally, they should be truly wireless and lightweight. These two features are unquestionably important for better productivity.
However, note that some of these devices are quite expensive. Moreover, others can be so loud and “boomy”. These are not attractive features for running devices. Choose a device with a good ambient noise feature.
Sources
- https://www.cnet.com/news/best-headphones-for-running/
- https://sites.tufts.edu/bethkrikorian/2018/04/19/the-trend-of-wireless-headphones/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5693749/
- https://eandt.theiet.org/content/articles/2017/11/hands-on-review-k-asq-sport-wireless-in-ear-sports-earbuds-by-pkparis/