HeadphonesFinderJLab Go Air Sport
Ear hooks, sweat resistance and a rock-bottom price: the budget pick that stays put.
Compare pricesWhat are the best earbuds for running and working out?
Workout earbuds need to stay put, survive sweat and let you hear traffic. Everything else comes second. The selector is preset for wireless in-ear buds that let some outside sound in.
Updated November 13, 2026
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Our picks
Beats Powerbeats Pro 2
Flexible ear hooks, a very secure fit, comfortable battery life and a built-in heart rate sensor.
Compare pricesShokz OpenRun Pro 2
Bone conduction keeps your ears open to hear traffic: ideal for running outdoors.
Compare pricesExample models chosen for their reputation in this category. Prices and availability change: check them on the retailer's page.
Fit: ear hooks, wing tips or neckband
An earbud that shifts with every stride quickly becomes unbearable. There are three solutions: ear hooks (the most secure for running and interval training), silicone wing tips that lock into the ear (more discreet), and models joined by a neckband, which you'll never lose. Try several ear tip sizes: a good seal also improves the bass.
Water resistance: read the IP rating
| Rating | Protection | Use |
|---|---|---|
| IPX4 | Splashes, sweat | Gym, easy runs |
| IPX5 / IPX7 | Water jets / temporary immersion | Rain, rinsing under the faucet |
| IP68 + onboard storage | Prolonged immersion | Swimming (Bluetooth doesn't work underwater) |
Safety: hear what's going on around you
Outdoors, turn off noise canceling and switch on ambient mode (transparency), or choose an open-ear model: bone conduction or open speakers that sit in front of the ear canal. You hear both your music and the cars. A note for cyclists: headphone rules vary by state, and a few states restrict cyclists or drivers from wearing headphones in both ears, so check your state and local laws before you ride.
Battery life and controls
- 5 to 8 hours per charge is plenty for most athletes; a marathon or a long trail run calls for more.
- Physical buttons are easier to use than touch controls with sweaty hands or gloves.
- A compact charging case slips into a jacket pocket or gym bag.
Mistakes to avoid
- Running on city streets with noise canceling cranked all the way up.
- Buying swimming earbuds expecting them to stream Bluetooth underwater.
Frequently Asked Questions
What water resistance rating do you need for running?
IPX4 is enough for sweat. If you run in the rain or rinse your earbuds, aim for IPX5 to IPX7. For swimming, you need an IP68 model with onboard storage.
Are bone conduction headphones good for working out?
Yes for running outdoors: they let you hear your surroundings. Their sound has less bass, and they're less suited to noisy gyms.
Is it legal to listen to music while biking?
It depends on where you ride. Rules vary by state, and a few states restrict cyclists or drivers from wearing headphones in both ears. Check your state and local laws before you ride.