Hearing your feet hit the pavement can be a soothing sound of accomplishment, but sometimes you need a little more encouragement. Energy-boosting tunes can carry you through a workout when delivered via a reliable pair of running earbuds.
When looking at your options, pay attention to earbud design, its capacity for water resistance and multiple other features. A popular and well-known brand is the Apple Airpods Pro, which delivers high-quality sound and a comfortable fit.
What to know before you buy running earbuds
There is much to ponder when it comes to selecting the best running earbuds for the job. For a full review of things to consider, check out the running earbuds buying guide on BestReviews.
Wired vs. wireless
There are two options when it comes to running earbuds: wired and wireless. Wired options are less expensive but provide excellent sound quality. You will want to select earbuds that resist tangling and have a durable, flat cord. Cords approximately 40 inches in length are preferred by most. On the flip side, wireless earbuds with Bluetooth technology create a connection between your device and the earbuds. However, wireless earbuds tend to not provide the same sound quality as wired.
Earbud type
The style of running earbuds differs in how they attach to your ears. In-ear earbuds sit inside your ear and stay in place through friction. This style features rubber tips in various sizes to ensure they fit different ear types. Clip-on earbuds also fit inside the ear but feature a clip to keep them secure inside your ear. Ear hook earbuds sit inside the ear but have external arms that form around your ear to keep them secure.
Charging and play time
You’ll want to consider two important factors regarding the charge your earbuds maintain: battery charge time and play time. Earbuds that feature a short charging time yet offer a longer playing time are an excellent option. An ideal charge time is a maximum of two hours while playing time is best around the six-hour mark.
Running earbud features
Water resistance
Running earbuds tend to provide some level of water resistance because sweat is a common factor when exercising. Other earbuds are fully waterproof, although that’s not necessary for running. As long as they can hold up under heavy sweat, or those occasional rain showers, water resistance is more than sufficient.
Earbud controls
Running earbuds tend to have volume and other controls on the earpiece or cord. The location of these controls makes it easier to adjust your audio while on the run. Others feature a button making it simple to switch tracks, and built-in microphones on the cord allow you to accept calls and speak without interrupting your run.
Protective case
Depending on the brand you select, some come with a storage case for your earbuds. This can make it easier to toss your running earbuds into your bag without worrying about damage or wires twisting. Some cases also double as a recharging station for Bluetooth wireless earbuds.
Running earbuds cost
The price you’ll pay for running headphones varies depending on the style, whether they’re wired or wireless and if there are features or extras. Most models range from $5 to $100, with budget-friendly models offering a simple, wired, in-ear option and midrange to higher-end models offering wireless options and advanced features.
Running earbuds FAQs
What feature is most important when selecting running earbuds?
A. As a runner, earbuds that fit well are an essential feature to consider. You want to have the freedom to run without the worry they may come loose in your ears. Clip-on style or a hook style are the top styles to seek out.
Which earbuds are best for running on a treadmill?
A. If running on a treadmill is your main go-to, hearing ambient noise may not be necessary since you do not have to worry about road hazards like cars. Earbuds that offer a noise-canceling feature are the best bet since it minimizes distractions while working out.
Which running earbuds should I get?
Best of the best running earbuds
Apple AirPods Pro: available at Amazon
Our take: These running earbuds are wireless and offer impressive sound quality and an adjustable fit.
What we like: These earbuds are resistant to both water and sweat, and three sizes of silicone tips are provided.
What we dislike: On one charge, you can listen to your music for just over four hours.
Best bang for your buck running earbuds
Samsung AKG N200 Wireless Headphones: available at Amazon
Our take: A trusted brand that delivers on lengthy playtime and high-end sound quality for those with budgets in mind.
What we like: These earbuds off crystal clear audio and lightning-fast charging at an affordable price. They are comfortable to wear and offer eight hours of battery life with Bluetooth connectivity.
What we dislike: Some reviewers complained that the sound quality is lacking.
Honorable mention running earbuds
Beats by Dre Powerbeats Pro: available at Amazon
Our take: These wireless earbuds are lightweight and made with movement in mind.
What we like: Both water and sweat-resistant, these earbuds feature volume and track controls and up to nine hours of listening time. The battery life is impressive.
What we dislike: Some reviewers expected better sound quality from this popular brand.
Honorable mention running earbuds
Bose Soundsport Wireless Headphone: available at Amazon
Our take: If you are longing for lightweight earbuds, Bose does not disappoint. They are high-performance and explicitly designed for those that are athletic.
What we like: With their sleek StayHear+ Sports design, these earbuds are optimized for staying in place when you run or work out. The Bose Connect app is an unexpected bonus.
What we dislike: This model tends to have a shorter battery life than others.
Honorable mention running earbuds
AfterShokz Air Open-Ear Wireless Headphones: available at Amazon
Our take: Made for everyday use, safety-conscious runners will appreciate the dual function of premium audio while hearing the environment around them.
What we like: Hear your surroundings while running unhindered, thanks to a unique design where sound travels through your cheekbones. They are durable and resistant to sweat.
What we dislike: The six-hour battery life is weak.
Rachel Pintarelli is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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