If you're on a new exercise kick or you're an avid runner in need of an upgrade to your headphones for 2024, this list is for you. The best running headphones are going to be comfortable enough to not distract you, while having good enough sound for you to enjoy your music. There are also other factors to consider, such as noise, fit, and shape. Above all, you want to ensure the best running headphones will not fall off as you run and complete your workout. Too many wireless earbuds and headphones don’t have the proper fit to stay on your head as you complete a run or walk, as they weren't designed with this movement in mind.
TL;DR - These are the Best Running Headphones
Most headphones and earbuds don’t tend to work well when exercising, considering a lot of brands do not carry water-resistant backing. Sweat could damage your device, leaving you to purchase another one anyways. This is where running headphones come in, which are engineered for exercise and working out. Of course, these all pair best with a great fitness tracker and quality smartwatch, which are a runner’s best friend. Now with all of this in mind, let's dive in to the best headphones for runners and gym-goers alike. Also keep in mind there are refurbished options for each product available on Best Buy if you need to save a few extra bucks.
1. Beats Fit Pro
The Best Running Headphones
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The Beats Fit Pro have plenty of features perfect for those looking to utilize them while running or in workouts. Each earbud has a wingtip mold on top of it, allowing for a comfortable and stylish fit inside your ear. The earbuds are IPX4-rated, meaning they’re sweatproof and water-resistant. You won’t have to worry about them while working up a sweat or walking or running through the rain.
Packed with Apple features, the Fit Pro offers Active Noise Cancellation, Transparency Mode, and Spatial Audio. Depending on where you’re running, you can adjust this setting accordingly on the fly. Battery life is solid, with up to seven hours of listening off of one charge. And, of course, the sound quality is excellent.
2. JBL Endurance Peak 3
Best Battery Life Running Headphones
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The Endurance Peak 3 has fantastic battery life, serving 10 hours without needing a charge. If you’re in need of some juice, you can slot them into the case, which contains an extra 40 hours of total battery life. The case isn’t too bulky and can fit with you during your runs. New to the Endurance Peak 3 is Ambient Aware, a noise cancellation mode that allows you to stay aware of your surroundings.
This is a great choice if you often run into issues with earbuds not fitting securely in your ear. The ear hook on the headphones will make sure they stay secure and don’t move around while you are running. While the bass can sound a bit muddy at times, overall, the Endurance Peak 3 offers a good range of audio.
3. Beats By Dre PowerBeats Pro
Best No-Slip Fit in Running Headphones
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PowerBeats Pro is a great earbud option for anyone looking for a secure, no-slip fit. These earbuds cover all the bases while offering great comfort and ear hooks to secure them while running. The true draw of the PowerBeats Pro comes with their battery life - a whopping nine hours. This will allow you to use them for a run of almost any length unless you’re running a double marathon or something of the sort.
The biggest downside here is easily the case. It’s bulky and is not going to fit in any of your pockets very comfortably. That’s alright, though - considering the nine-hour battery life, you shouldn’t need to recharge your PowerBeats Pro while on the run (unless you're planning a literal marathon). The earbuds retail for $249 but can be regularly seen on sale for $179 and below.
4. Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II
Best Sound Quality
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The second generation of the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds is a wonderful choice for running if you have the budget for it. At $299, there’s no better sound quality you can find in wireless running headphones. You will hear defined, bombastic bass alongside pronounced and articulate vocals. There are two separate ear fittings you can interchange on the earbuds to get the best fit possible. This ensures they won’t fall out of your ears while running, in addition to canceling out as much sound as possible.
With a price this high, the Bose QuietComfort has a lot to prove, but it totally manages. A standard six hours of battery life will be available on a single charge, which should last you through any run. Additionally, these running headphones offer noise cancellation and a transparency mode called Aware, which will let you stay, well, aware, of your surroundings while running.
5. Shokz OpenRun
Best Non-Earbuds Headphones for Running
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The Shokz OpenRun headphones have an interesting design that allows you to hear your music even though it is not inside your ear. The headphones use bone conduction to play sound, which results in the device resting just in front of your ear. These are called open-ear endurance headphones for this reason. This way, you are still able to listen to everything around you with no interruptions. Bone Conduction works by sending frequencies into your skull through special vibration, so you can “hear” the music, without obstructing your ears at all.
They retail for $129 and are great if earbuds tend to fall out while you run. The hooks supporting these headphones are connected, so you won’t have to worry about the OpenRun falling out. Battery life stands at eight hours with a quick charge feature of 1.5 hours of juice from 10 minutes. Overall, if you want to stray away from earbuds, the Shokz OpenRun is a great option that has plenty of useful features and good battery life.
What to Look for in Running Headphones
Waterproof or Water-Resistant?
One of the most important things when considering any headphones for the gym or running is looking to see if they are water-resistant. When doing any type of exercise, whether it’s running or going to the gym, you’re going to sweat – after all, that’s the point, right?. Some headphones don’t have any resistance, and this sweat can damage them. Look for IPX4 or IP68 ratings for your headphones.
Noise Cancellation
Noise cancellation has quickly become one of the most requested features on headphones. The ability to clear out background noise while on a run can greatly improve concentration and the overall effectiveness of your workout. Newer headphones also offer the ability to switch to an ambient or transparent mode, allowing some sounds like people talking, car horns, and more into your headphones alongside music.
Battery Life
No one wants to go on a run just to hear their headphones die halfway through. Battery life is a key feature you should look for in a pair of running headphones. Anything above five hours without needing a charge should suffice. Worst case, most headphones allow you to charge quickly and can gain an hour or two of listening time with only ten minutes of charge.
If you want to explore more tech to support your running and fitness goals, be sure to check out the best Fitbits , best Apple Watches, and the best Apple Watch alternatives. For those looking to get in shape in the comfort of their home, here's the best home gym equipment to peruse too.
Noah Hunter is a freelance writer and reviewer with a passion for games and technology. He co-founded Final Weapon, an outlet focused on nonsense-free Japanese gaming (in 2019) and has contributed to various publishers including Hard Drive, TheGamer and more. His favorite series include Xeno and Final Fantasy.
Header image credit: Apple Inc via Amazon.com.
