Iâll be honest: running and I are still in a complicated relationship.
I love the idea of it - the endorphins, the fresh air, the head-clearing silence (or music). But nothing kills my stride quicker than earbuds that fall out mid-run or get tangled in wires.
Thatâs why I spent the past few months testing and reviewing the best headphones for running â ones that stay put, sound great, and can handle sweat, rain, and fast movement.
Whether youâre a treadmill regular or pounding pavement outdoors, here are the five pairs Iâd actually recommend.
Let's get into this đ
- Water resistance is essential â every model listed is built to handle sweat or rain
- Transparency mode is ideal for outdoor safety, while noise canceling suits treadmill sessions
- Shokz offers open-ear awareness; AirPods Pro balance noise control with comfort
- Budget-friendly picks like JLab Go Air Sport offer solid performance without the high price tag
- Fit and stability matter more than features â the best running headphones wonât fall out mid-stride
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Thereâs no shortage of options when it comes to running headphones, but not all are built for movement. The right pair needs to handle sweat, stay in place, and deliver solid sound whether youâre on the treadmill or pounding the pavement.
Before you commit to a pair, itâs worth knowing which features actually make a difference. Here are the ones that matter most when it comes to comfort, durability, and performance.
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These are our 5 favorite running headphones for fit, comfort and price. đ
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Apple Airpods Pro (2nd Generation)
- Adaptive Audio Modes: Seamlessly blends noise cancellation with transparency for dynamic environments.
- Secure Fit Options: Comes with four ear tip sizes to improve comfort and noise isolation.
- Enhanced Apple Integration: Auto-switches between Apple devices for smooth user experience.
- Detailed Sound Profile: Low-distortion drivers deliver crisp treble and rich bass.
The Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) are premium true wireless earbuds designed to deliver an improved listening experience for users who value sound quality, noise control, and comfort.
- The H2 chip powers enhanced noise cancellation and Adaptive Audio, offering a seamless blend of isolation and awareness depending on your surroundingsâideal for commuters, remote workers, and frequent travelers.
- With four silicone tip sizes and an acoustic seal, the customizable fit promotes long-wear comfort and better sound isolation, helping reduce the need to adjust during movement or extended use.
These earbuds also stand out for their crisp highs and full bass, making them a strong pick for Apple users seeking reliable sound performance and convenience.
- âClear, Balanced Sound: Many users highlight the impressive audio quality, noting crisp highs and deeper bass compared to the previous generation.â
- Effective Noise Cancellation: The updated ANC is praised for noticeably reducing background noise, especially in busy or noisy environments.â
- Comfortable, Secure Fit: The inclusion of four ear tip sizes earns praise for helping users find a snug, comfortable fit that stays in place throughout the day.â
- Seamless Apple Integration: Users appreciate the effortless pairing and switching between Apple devices, calling it one of the standout conveniences.â
- Strong Everyday Performance: Reviewers find them reliable for music, calls, and podcasts, with Adaptive Transparency offering a natural experience when moving through different environments.â
- Some Case & Connectivity Feedback: A few mention that the charging case can scuff easily, and occasional Bluetooth hiccups have been reportedâthough infrequent.
Overall, users find the AirPods Pro 2 a strong upgrade, especially for those already in the Apple ecosystem.
- Strong noise cancellation powered by the H2 chip
- Comfortable, secure fit with four included tip sizes
- Smooth connectivity across Apple devices
- Balanced sound profile suitable for both calls and music
- Adaptive Audio adjusts automatically to changing surroundings
- Charging case supports multiple recharges for extended use
- Shorter battery life per charge than some competitors (around 6 hours)
- Occasional Bluetooth connectivity issues reported by some users
- Charging case can scuff easily with daily use
- Optimal functionality primarily within the Apple ecosystem
Cleer ARC Sport II
- Comfortable Design: Lightweight, ergonomic fit ensures comfort during extended use.
- Sound Quality: Provides clear, balanced audio, perfect for vocals and podcasts.
- Device Connectivity: Supports multipoint connection, allowing seamless switching between devices.
- Battery Performance: Delivers up to 35 hours of playtime, reducing the need for frequent charging.
The Cleer ARC II Sport offers a balanced mix of comfort, advanced audio features, and connectivity, ideal for active users.
- Ultra-Light and Ergonomic Design: These open-ear Bluetooth headphones provide exceptional comfort with their lightweight build and ergonomic fit, making them suitable for long workdays or intense workout sessions while keeping you aware of your surroundings.
- Advanced Audio and Connectivity: Equipped with multi-point connection and Snapdragon sound support, these headphones allow seamless switching between devices and high-resolution music streaming. The EQ control lets users customize their sound experience, enhancing the overall listening quality.
Overall, the Cleer ARC II Sport are a practical choice for those seeking reliable sound quality and comfort during activities, catering to both fitness enthusiasts and busy professionals.
- Comfort & Fit:
Users find these headphones comfortable for long periods, appreciating their lightweight design that stays secure even during intense workouts. - Sound Quality:
The sound clarity is frequently praised, offering balanced audio that's especially effective for vocals and podcasts, though some desire more bass. - Awareness & Safety:
Many highlight the benefit of staying aware of surroundings, which enhances safety during activities like jogging or cycling. - Battery Life & Connectivity:
The long battery life and reliable Bluetooth connectivity are noted as strong points, making them convenient for extended use and stable pairing with devices. - Usability Concerns:
Some users experienced Bluetooth connection issues, but this issue doesn't appear to be widespread. - User Experience:
Overall, users appreciate the multipoint connection and customizable features via the Cleer+ app, enhancing their listening experience and convenience.
These headphones are well-regarded for their comfort, sound quality, and practicality, making them a solid choice for active lifestyles.
- Secure Fit: Stays in place during high-intensity workouts.
- âCustomizable Sound: Cleer+ app allows personalized EQ settings.â
- Sweat Resistance: IPX5 rating ensures durability during exercise.â
- Clear Call Quality: Enhanced voice clarity with cVc technology.
- Volume Limitation: Some users find maximum volume insufficient in noisy environments.
- Bass Performance: Bass may lack depth for those preferring heavier sound.
- Durability Concerns: Occasional reports of connection issues after extended use.
Bose Sport Earbuds
- Customizable fit with three sizes of StayHear Max tips for secure, comfortable wear during workouts
- IPX4-rated sweat and weather resistance for reliable performance in various conditions
- Touch interface controls for easy volume adjustment, playback, and call management
- Beam-forming microphone array for clear voice isolation during calls
The Bose Sport Earbuds combine high-quality sound with workout-friendly features, making them a solid choice for active users seeking reliable performance.
- Secure Fit for Active Use: The StayHear Max tips in three sizes offer a customizable fit, helping the earbuds stay in place during intense workouts or runs, addressing a common pain point for athletes.
- Workout-Ready Design: With an IPX4 rating, these earbuds resist sweat and light rain, while the touch controls allow for easy adjustments mid-exercise without fumbling for buttons.
Overall, the Bose Sport Earbuds provide a balance of sound quality, comfort, and durability that caters well to fitness enthusiasts who value both performance and practicality in their audio gear.
- âPremium Sound Quality: Users consistently praise the lifelike audio and deep bass, delivering clear, balanced sound during workouts.
- âSmart Touch Controls: The swipe-based volume control and tap functions work well, though some users mention a brief learning curve.
- âWorkout-Proof Design: Athletes highlight the reliable IPX4 sweat resistance and durability during intense sessions.
- âFit and Comfort Mix: The StayHear Max tips offer three size options, though users with smaller ears occasionally struggle to find their perfect match.
- âCall Quality Features: The beam-forming microphone array provides clear calls in most environments, with some limitations in very noisy settings.
- âBattery Performance: Initial battery life is strong, but some report capacity decline after months of use and occasional single-earbud connectivity issues.
Users generally agree these earbuds deliver signature Bose sound quality and reliable workout performance, making them a practical choice for active users.
- Secure fit designed to stay in place during intense activities
- Sweat and weather-resistant for outdoor use
- Intuitive touch controls for easy operation while exercising
- Quick charge feature provides 2 hours of use from a 15-minute charge
- Bose Music app allows for personalized settings and control
- Battery life limited to 5 hours per charge, which may not suffice for extended use
- Fit may not be ideal for users with smaller ear canals
- Touch controls may require a learning curve for some users
- Bluetooth range of 30 feet may be restrictive in larger workout spaces
Shokz Open Run Pro
- Open-Ear Comfort: Bud-free design keeps ears uncovered, offering comfort without in-ear pressure.
- Enhanced Safety: Allows users to stay aware of surroundings, ideal for outdoor exercise.
- Clear Sound Quality: TurboPitch technology delivers rich bass and clear audio for an immersive experience.
- Extended Battery Life: Provides up to 10 hours of continuous listening with quick charge for convenience.
The Shokz OpenRun Pro brings open-ear comfort and impressive sound quality to active lifestyles, making it an appealing choice for runners and outdoor enthusiasts.
- The open-ear, bud-free design provides lasting comfort and keeps your ears uncovered, allowing full awareness of your surroundingsâa key benefit for those prioritizing safety during outdoor activities.
- Featuring advanced Shokz TurboPitch technology, the OpenRun Pro delivers high-quality audio with clear sound, powerful volume, and deep bass, giving a premium listening experience without the isolation of traditional earbuds.
With its secure fit and long battery life, the Shokz OpenRun Pro is a practical option for those looking for a balanced blend of comfort, sound, and situational awareness.
- Clear Sound Quality: Users appreciate the balanced sound quality, highlighting clear audio and rich bass, even in outdoor settings.
- Comfortable, Bud-Free Fit: The open-ear design is often praised for its comfort, especially during long workouts, with no ear fatigue from buds.
- Secure During Activity: With a snug fit and lightweight frame, users report these headphones stay in place, even during intense movement.
- Awareness of Surroundings: Many users value being able to hear ambient sounds, a feature noted as ideal for running or cycling in busy areas.
- Reliable Battery Life: Feedback commonly mentions the extended battery life, lasting up to ten hours, which users find convenient for day-long wear.
- Minor Bluetooth Limitations: A few users mention occasional Bluetooth reconnection issues, but generally, connectivity is seen as fast and easy.
Overall, users find the Shokz OpenRun Pro an excellent choice for active, outdoor listeners looking for quality sound without compromising situational awareness.
- Lightweight titanium frame offers a stable, secure fit, even during intense movement.
- A 5-minute charge provides up to 1.5 hours of playback, convenient for last-minute needs.
- TurboPitch technology delivers clear, powerful audio with deep bass.
- Open-ear design helps users stay aware of their environment, enhancing safety.
- Some users report occasional reconnection issues after pauses or extended inactivity.
- Open-ear design may allow ambient noise, which may be distracting in loud settings.
- Audio quality may differ slightly from traditional headphones, depending on preferences.
JLab Go Air Sport
- Sweat-Resistant Design: Built with IP55 sweat resistance, making them reliable for workouts and outdoor use.
- Long Battery Life: Provides 8+ hours in each earbud, with 32+ hours total using the case.
- Customizable Sound Modes: Choose from Signature, Balanced, and Bass Boost modes for a tailored listening experience.
- Dual Connect Feature: Use either earbud independently, convenient for calls or situational awareness.
The JLab Go Air Sport offers a well-rounded mix of comfort, durability, and audio options, designed for active users at a reasonable price.
- Secure, Sweat-Resistant Fit: With an IP55 sweat resistance rating and ergonomic earhooks, these earbuds are built to stay comfortably in place, even during intense workouts, making them ideal for outdoor or gym use.
- Customizable Listening Experience: Featuring EQ3 sound modes, users can choose between JLab Signature, Balanced, and Bass Boost without needing an app, catering to varied listening preferences.
Summary: For those seeking reliable, sweatproof earbuds with versatile sound settings, the JLab Go Air Sport provides a solid option at an accessible price point.
- Great for Active Use: Users love the secure fit of the earhooks, which keeps the earbuds comfortably in place during workouts and outdoor activities.
- Reliable Battery Life: With over 32 hours of total battery life, many find these earbuds perfect for extended use without frequent recharging.
- Simple Pairing & Controls: Easy pairing and intuitive touch controls make these earbuds convenient, especially when switching between music and calls.
- Sound Customization Options: The EQ3 sound modes allow users to adjust audio to their preference, with options for Signature, Balanced, and Bass Boost.
- Minor Fit Adjustments Needed: Some users mention that adjusting the gel tips can be necessary to avoid ear fatigue, particularly during longer listening sessions.
- Good Value for Everyday Use: While not as isolating as premium options, many find these earbuds comfortable and reliable for everyday needs at a budget-friendly price.
- Secure, Comfortable Fit: Earhooks keep the earbuds firmly in place during movement.
- Extended Battery Life: Total of 32+ hours of playtime, ideal for longer use without frequent charging.
- Sweatproof: IP55 rating protects against sweat and dust, suitable for outdoor activities.
- Customizable Sound: Three EQ modes to match user preferences, enhancing audio experience.
- Minimal Noise Isolation: Limited noise-blocking capability compared to higher-end models.
- Audio Delay: Some users report slight delays, particularly noticeable in video streaming.
- Fit Adjustments May Be Needed: Certain users find they need to try different gel tips to avoid ear fatigue.
Why is an IPX rating important?
âWater damage may not seem like an immediate concern on daily runs, especially if you hit up the treadmill. However, sweat happens. Or, your morning run might include a surprise rainstorm. Those two reasons are enough to pick up a pair of headphones that include an IPX rating of 4 or higher.
And if swimming is a part of your exercise routine, you might want to invest in a pair for some laps (aka, splashing and water submersion).
â FYI: IP stands for Ingress Protection Marking, a system that rates the level of defense mechanical and electrical casings offer against intrusions like dust, water, and more.
From fit and comfort to sound quality and IPX ratings and ease of use, I ran the gamut for a pair of durable and stable headphones. The results? I was impressedâand surprisedâwith my findings. And my runs will hopefully be more frequent and more fun.
Staying Safe While Running With Headphones
Running with headphones can make the miles fly by, but itâs worth keeping a few safety basics in mind:
- Stay aware of your surroundings. If youâre running outdoors, especially near traffic or in low-visibility areas, consider open-ear or bone conduction headphones. They let in ambient sound so you can hear cars, bikes, or someone coming up behind you.
- Keep the volume in check. Itâs tempting to crank the volume during a tough run, but blasting music can dull your awareness. If you canât hear your own footfalls or a dog bark, itâs probably too loud.
- Stick to well-lit, familiar routes if youâre zoning out with noise-canceling earbuds. Save the full immersion for the treadmill or track where you control the environment.
- Use one earbud if needed. On crowded streets or shared trails, popping out one earbud can give you that extra edge in awareness without ditching the soundtrack altogether.
- Be visible. Especially if youâre an early riser or a nighttime runner. Reflective gear, a headlamp, or bright clothing makes a huge difference â headphones or not.
Running with music doesnât have to come at the cost of safety. With the right setup and a little awareness, you can get lost in your playlist without losing track of whatâs around you.
Transparency Mode vs Noise Canceling: What Actually Helps Your Run
When you listen to music during a run, the type of sound control you choose can totally change the experience.
- Transparency mode, available in the AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) and Cleer ARC Sport II, lets in ambient sound. Thatâs ideal for street runners who need to hear traffic, or for anyone wanting to stay aware of their surroundings without leaving your ear wide open.
- On the flip side, active noise cancelation (ANC), also found in the AirPods Pro, can help you focus and block distractions during treadmill sessions or quieter paths.
- And if youâre after true environmental awareness, open-ear headphones like the Shokz OpenRun Pro are designed to sit outside the ear entirely, perfect for outdoor safety.
Knowing when to use noise canceling vs. transparency mode will help you find the right audio experience â one that matches where, how, and why you run.
Final Thoughts on the Best Running Headphones
Each set of headphones weâve featured checks the essentials: secure fit, reliable water resistance, great sound, and solid hours of battery life.
Whether youâre looking for over-ear security, a lightweight pair of earbuds, or something that helps you listen to music without tuning out the world â thereâs a match here for you.
- Want open awareness? Go with the Shokz OpenRun Pro.
- Need all-day wear and seamless sound? The Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) deliver.
- Craving comfort and solid tech? Cleer ARC Sport II hits the mark.
- After a budget-friendly, sweatproof option? JLab Go Air Sport has you covered.
- Prefer a snug fit with premium sound? Check the Bose Sport Earbuds.
With the right set of earbuds, your playlist becomes more than background noise - it becomes your pace-setter, your mood-lifter, your run companion.
Now itâs time to pick the pair thatâll help you show up and keep going. The question remains, which will you choose?
