The best running headphones we guarantee won’t fall out
Need a beat to move your feet? Then listen up - here are the best headphones for running
Whether you’re a fan of hardcore trance or classic rock, music has been scientifically proven to improve your pace when you pull on your trainers and go for a run. Effectively a way of keeping your feet in time the beat, you’ll feel a performance enhancing effect if you run to songs with an even tempo and lively rhythm — and never more so than during those stiflingly warm evenings that summer likes to throw at us. When the temperature increases, it’s all too easy to drop the pace; but when that beat’s going, you’ll find yourself picking up speed without even realising it.
But, with increased speed comes the risk of losing your headphones. Normal wireless earbuds, as far as you push them into your ears, are prone to dropping out on uneven terrain. Investing in a decent pair designed specifically for the job will infinitely improve your running experience. As such, we’ve rounded up best runnings headphones on the market. Some are sweat proof (essential for that heatwave we know is coming), others wireless – but all are guaranteed to stay in your ears and keep you racing along at record speed.
Best for a test of endurance: Powerbeats Pro True Wireless In-Ear Headphones
The totally wireless Powerbeats Pro earphones are built to revolutionise your workouts. With no wires to hold you back, these adjustable, secure-fit ear hooks are customisable for extended comfort and stability. A reinforced design for sweat and water resistance lets you max out your exercise, and each earbud has full volume and track controls — along with up to nine hours of listening time to give a powerful soundtrack to your training.
Best for sound and call quality: Jabra Elite Sport Earbuds
An early adopter of Bluetooth technology, Jabra has plenty of expertise in wireless sound quality and its Elite Sport earbuds guarantee top notch sound and call quality. The bass-enriched speakers have four advanced microphones for superior call technology that filters out background noise, and make sure only your voice is heard in any environment.
Customisable fitting options enable all-day use and improve the quality of your sound experience while ensuring that, no matter how vigorous your workout, your earbuds will stay put. The Jabra Elite Sport earbuds also boast a 4.5 hours battery life (plus a portable charging case) — plenty for even your longest runs.
Best for premium comfort: Jaybird Vista Headphones
Jaybird should really be a household name when it comes to headphones. With the Vista, Jaybird has made a huge leap forward in the world of wireless earbuds. They’re comfortable, sound great and can withstand the abuse of most workouts. They’re more than just good exercise headphones, they’re some of the best wireless earbuds around.
Designed from the ground up with runners and gym goers in mind, while they don’t have the luxurious feel of some sets, they tick all the right boxes when it comes to fit and functionality.
Best for true audiophiles: RHA TrueConnect 2
The TrueConnect 2 earbuds are ultraportable true wireless earbuds designed with audiophiles in mind. Their sonic qualities set them apart from rival brands, but it’s not only their audio fidelity that makes them stand out.
They’re extremely well designed: from the charging case to their snug fit, RHA’s TrueConnect 2 earbuds tick a lot of aesthetic boxes. Combining stylish, subtle design, excellent call and streaming quality, IP55 sweat and water resistance, and dual microphones that eliminate unwanted external noise from calls — these truly are the perfect training companions.
For a smart assistant: Bose SoundSport Free Wireless Headphones
Whether you’re getting in shape for a marathon or circuit training at the gym, the Bose SoundSport Free wireless headphones are sweat and weather resistant, keeping you focused on hitting your goals. Put to your best motivational playlists even in demotivating weather and the rain will simply roll off while your music continues uninterrupted.
Their reliable connection is ever present, designed as they are to maximise the strength of a wireless signal; so no matter where you’re running, you’ll be as connected as ever. Factor in their luxurious comfortability, and these really are the headphones to get you through that sweaty, humid summer run.
Looking for more gear to improve the quality of your summer sound? Why not turn up the best wireless speakers this summer…
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