If you have strong preferences for your workout gear — and strong feelings on Hoka versus Brooks (I’m not getting in the middle of that debate) — then finding the right pair of workout headphones is extra challenging.
The best headphones for working out need to withstand movement, sweat, and the elements. Plus, you don’t want something you’re constantly fussing with; your headphones should help you stay focused during your exercises.
Mashable reviewers have tested many pairs of headphones and wireless earbuds, and we can tell you which products stay put during a workout, and which buds will go tumbling onto the sidewalk as soon as you break into a run. To make sure we’re recommending the right products, I tested five pairs of audio products during my daily workouts, ultimately choosing four.
How to pick headphones for working out
The right headphones for you depend significantly on the kinds of workouts you like to do and where you like to do them. If you like to run outdoors, you need headphones that keep you safe in busy areas with reliable noise transparency. If you’re pumping iron at the gym, you might prefer sports earbuds that block out the world with active noise cancellation so you can really lock in for your reps.
For this guide, I looked for two universal specs in all of the headphones I tested. First, workout headphones need to be wireless, giving you a full range of movement. You don’t want to get tied up on the stairclimber.
Second, workout headphones need to be sweat- or water-resistant. This one is obvious. When you’re working out, you’re getting sweaty, and you want headphones that won’t freak out at the first sign of moisture. Your gym earbuds don’t have to be fully waterproof, but this will be helpful for outdoor athletes.
Why are there no over-the-ear headphones on this list?
When we review headphones at Mashable, we look at all types, from over-the-ear headphones to earbuds, but you won’t find any over-the-ear products here. The reason for this is simple: these headphones aren’t good for working out. While we usually love them for their comfort and audio quality, their heft gets in the way when you’re moving.
Plus, over-the-ear headphones and sweat are a terrible combination. Sweat gets under the ear pads, trapping moisture and leading to the headphones’ fabric or leather disintegrating over time. Not to mention, they’ll get smelly fast. But don’t worry; if you don’t like earbuds, you still have options.
So, whether you’re hitting the gym or the pavement, here are the best earbuds and headphones for working out.
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