If you’re an avid runner, you probably already know what you’re looking for in a pair of headphones. It wouldn’t matter whether you’re doing a long route in town, out in the country, or reaching a goal indoors. To listen to the music or podcasts that will break up the monotony, you need durable headphones — we’re talking water- and sweat-resistance, plus a lightweight design that also happens to sound good. Whether you’re a pro runner or just starting out as part of your exercise routine, check out our best headphones for running.
Flagship earbuds
Jaybird Vista
Staff Pick
The Jaybird Vista are at the top of this list for good reason. They have IPX7 water-resistance that all but ensures they’ll be able to withstand regular sweaty runs and workouts, but they only get better when you factor in the audio quality and battery life. These are some of the best headphones for running because you can use the earbuds for up to six hours per charge, plus an additional 10 from the included charging case.
From $127 at Amazon $150 at Best Buy
Ridiculous battery life
Powerbeats Pro
The ear hook design gives the Powerbeats Pro an edge in practicality for running because you won’t have to worry about them falling off. They mostly stick to a neutral sound signature with a slight hint of bass, but they’re made to let some ambient noise in for safety. You can expect up to nine hours per charge, but also a large case to charge them in.
$200 at Apple From $184 at Amazon $250 at Best Buy
Stretch your dollars
LETSCOM Bluetooth Headphones
Stretching out every dollar for something of real value isn’t always easy, yet LETSCOM manages to pull it off with these headphones. The ear hooks are great for stability, and the neckband means you can just let them hang when you need a break. There’s also decent sound, and impressive battery life at up to eight hours per charge.
$19 at Amazon $27 at Walmart
Look ma no wires
Jabra Elite Active 75t
Jabra has done right by these true wireless earbuds, and the Elite Active 75t also now have active noise cancelation (ANC) through a firmware update. The IP57 rating for dust and water resistance will make these last if you take care of them, but among their best attributes are the snug fit, great sound, steady connection, and solid battery life.
$180 at Amazon $180 at Best Buy
Active noise cancelation
Apple AirPods Pro
Apple gave the AirPods Pro solid ANC support, making them ideal for any runner looking to drown out some of the ambient sound so you can stay focused. They’re also very comfortable and aren’t likely to slide out as easily as the regular AirPods. Battery life isn’t spectacular at up to 4.5 hours, but at least the case is small and can charge them quickly.
$249 at Apple $199 at Amazon $200 at Best Buy
Neckbud love
Philips Performance Wireless
Not all neckbuds are ideal for running, but you should be fine with the Philips Performance Wireless, which stick to doing one job. The IPX5 rating is dependable enough for a sweaty run, and the two earbuds conveniently attach via magnets when you’re not using them. They can last up to eight hours per charge, which is great value at this price.
$45 at Amazon
Dirt cheap
Mpow Flame
The Mpow Flame come cheap, but that’s not an indictment against their ability to perform when out on a run. They can hold on around your ears for a stable fit with every stride and are capable of pumping out decent sound, though passive noise isolation really depends on how tight the seal is. Up to nine hours of battery life certainly doesn’t hurt, either.
$19 at Amazon $44 at Newegg
Bone conducting magic
AfterShokz Trekz Titanium
You may want your ears unplugged, and bone conduction headphones are one way to make that happen. If that’s your cup of tea, the AfterShokz Trekz Titanium are a great value. Using vibrations through your jaw and skull, you can listen to music without having to involve your ears at all. It’s safe to do it, and these headphones can keep doing it for up to six hours on a charge.
$80 at Amazon
Premium sound
Bose SoundSport Wireless
Bose didn’t let up too much on the SoundSport Wireless as far as sound quality is concerned. Their sound signature is excellent for sporty headphones, especially ones that have good sweat and water resistance to make them equally durable. Battery life holds up well under the pressure at a reasonable height of up to six hours per charge.
$129 at Amazon $129 at Best Buy $129 at Walmart
Going in stride with the best headphones for runners
If your daily or weekly routine includes going out for a jog or run, the Jaybird Vista won’t disappoint in the key areas you’d want. They’re not only rugged, but they also have a Pandora’s Box of audio customization through Jaybird’s app. You will have to charge them a little more often because of the smaller battery in the case, but at least you can easily get through a run or workout without worrying.
Also worth strong consideration are the Jabra Elite Active 75t. Like the Vista, they’re among the best true wireless earbuds, thanks to their comfortable fit, great sound quality, newfound ANC support, and solid battery life. Depending on your needs, this list has a little bit of everything, no matter if you’re looking for a true wireless pair, or something wireless with a solitary cord between them.
