Best Headphones for Running
A pair of running headphones are a must for workouts. The right pair of headphones helps boost your performance and keeps your mind busy while running.
Whether you like to pound the pavement, hit the gym for the treadmill or run on trails, the best way to avoid distractions is with headphones.
One of the biggest factors to be considered while choosing running headphones is will they stay in place. It means you will require headphones designed for intense workouts.
Apart from this, you need to also look at whether the headphones can withstand sweat and water. And of course, you will want the music sound to be decent too.
The most preferred type of headphones is wireless headphones, which have a lot of advantages.
What can be better than a comfortable run? This is what you will have when no cables and wires are tangling in your body.
With your favorite music playing, your work out gets more interesting and intense. There are even noise cancelation headphones and In-ear headphones that you can try while running.
If you listen to music while you run, workout, or play sports, you’re probably familiar with the feeling of accidentally ripping out your headphone cable in the heart of the action.
Or worse, you might have tried exercising with over-ear headphones, only to ruin the ear cups the first time you dripped sweat on them.
The best option for who is always moving is a good pair of Bluetooth earbuds.
Wireless earbuds free you from the burden of the audio cable without compromising audio quality.
Many earbuds are even specifically designed for fitness use, boasting sweat-proofing, rugged casings, and internal batteries that outlast even the most insane workouts.
Our best selling headphones for running article will give you the details about types of headphones available in the market as well as detail buyers guide on best sports earphones in India to finalize on the best runner headphones along with top 13 best headphones in India Read to explore more about runner’s headphones available in the market.
Top 13 Best Headphones For Runners in india
| Product (Best Brands) | Best Price |
|---|---|
 | |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
|
Types of Headphones
1. Wired headphones
These are the basic ones that would probably be attached to the phones of everyone. This can be used by runners and joggers if your MP3 player does not support the Bluetooth connection or any wireless connections.
However, the main disadvantage of wired headphones is wire. You’d want to run and burn calories rather than spending your time untangling the cables away from your body.
2. Wireless Headphones
This is mostly preferred by people who want to have an irritation-free workout. They are just fixed on your ears without disturbing other parts of your body while running or jogging.
Being safe and comfortable, they can be connected to your devices through Bluetooth.
3. Ear Buds
They are lightweight, and if you have a good pair, they will sit comfortably in your ears until the end of your workout. This can be preferred as there will not be any extra weight on your head, and they are easy to carry as well.
In some cases, they are not even seen by others, and this can be taken as an advantage. However, it might be irritating to your eardrums as they are placed inside the ears.
4. Over-the-ear Headphones
They last longer than any headphones and come with amazing sound quality. If you buy the best over-ear headphone, you will have a mini Home-theatre set over your ears.
One main disadvantage is that they are heavier than the other earphones, and unlike the earbuds, they cannot be folded.
Headphones Buyer’s Guide
These are the things that you should look for before buying the best suitable headphone.
Connectivity
The wireless headphones come with Bluetooth connectivity so that you can easily connect it to your smartphone within a range of 30-35 feet.
Also, ensure that they come with a powerful chipset that helps in establishing a smooth and secure Bluetooth connection so that you never lose the connectivity.
Thus, you can obtain an uninterrupted sound experience while running.
Secure fit
The earbud or tips should be made of silicone, and they should feature a flexible headband so that you can an adjustable, comfortable, and secure fit.
This prevents the headphones from slipping off while running or during workout sessions.
Sound Quality
One of the most important things to keep in mind while buying a headphone is the sound quality. Music is what travels through your ears and soothes your brain, and getting the right quality will only enhance the journey.
This includes the soundstage, that is, how well the headphones are designed to give your two ears the right amount of sound to balance the output.
Wires
As mentioned earlier, wires connect to your ears and the device. They do not need a Bluetooth range to depend on.
They come in with amazing qualities and at lower prices. But the most preferred and safe are the wireless headphones.
They are connected to your device through Bluetooth, and the wires are off your body while working out.
Passive noise isolation
It is very necessary as it is this feature that lets you be aware of your surroundings. It blocks out sound passively and depends on the type of headphone you are using.
While running or jogging outside, it is important to beware of a safety measure.
Sensors
While working out, the built-in sensors in the headphones are what matters. These range from accelerometers and gyroscopes, biometric heart rate sensors, and optical touch sensors.
These can help track your motions for exercise purposes. Fitness enthusiasts can keep tabs on their heart rate without needing an additional device.
Sound amplification
As you step out into an open area, sound amplification is what you can control to boost or reduce certain frequencies, such as traffic or while talking to someone.
Water-resistant headphones
They are built with water-resistant materials to keep sweat and water from damaging the device. These are great for working out outdoors or in the gym, as you do not have to interrupt your work out from time to time.
1. boAt Airdopes 441 TWS Ear-Buds
boAt needs no introduction. The company has been developing innovative and out of the box creations for its customers. It has a varied range of product portfolio that includes headphones, lifestyle electronics, home speakers, wireless speakers, travel chargers, etc.
The boAt airdrops 441 TWS ear-buds lets into enjoy music in a truly wireless way. The earbuds enable you to plug into nirvana as they are equipped with dynamic 6mm drivers for immersive sound. Its capacitive touch controls let you seamlessly operate.
- The earbuds have IWP (Insta Wake N Pair) technology. As soon as you open the charging case, the earbuds turn on and enter connection mode.
- You can enjoy smooth and clear calls due to their stereo calling features.
- The earbuds have the latest Bluetooth v5.0 technology that offers instant connectivity.
- Each earbud has a 35mAh battery, which lets you indulge in blissful audio on stop for up to 3.5 hours.
- The charging case supports normal as well as C type ports. This reduces the fuss of charging.
- The earbuds are IPX6 sweat and water-resistant.
- You can access voice assistance with one single touch.
- The ergonomically designed earbuds are a perfect partner for your intense workout sessions.
- These smart earbuds remember the last paired devices. Hence the next time you try to pair them, they directly get connected on opening the case.
- The earbuds also come with an additional 14H playback time and a portable charging cum storage case.
- The LED lights on the capacitive touch buttons look premium and add to the looks.
- The charging is compact and travels friendly.
- Decent noise cancellation and deep bass.
- No audio control options available on the buds.
2. Jaybird X3 Sport Bluetooth Headset
The Jaybird X3 is one of the easiest pairs of earphones to recommend for sports use. There’s no ear hook, but the in-ear fins come in different sizes and offer a much less cumbersome that’s just as secure.
As a bonus, you can attach the fins in two ways to allow you to wear them with the cable feeding over or under your ear, with an adjuster to make it as snug as you like.
As for audio, this again is versatile thanks to the superb bespoke app, which lets you create your sound profiles or use those shared by other users in the Jaybird community.
It lacks some of the clarity and ring of higher-end earphones, but they’re bassy, loud, and great fun. It offers eight hours of battery life, too, which is a major point.
- 8-hour battery life
- Bluetooth 4.1 connectivity
- 6mm drivers
- Passive noise isolation
- Attractive, intuitive app
- Intuitive app with customizable EQ
- Loud and immersive sound
- Charging cradle is less fiddly than Micro-USB
- Stay in your ears
- Sound quality could be better(but at this price that’s a minor complaint)
- Only compatible with iPhone.
3. Techfire HBS 730 Wireless Neckband Bluetooth Earphone Headset
It is a hands-free headset for a phone that lets you drive, run, walk, gym, and more with ease. It is sweatproof and compatible with an android smartphone.
The headset has ultra-light elastic memory material and is easy to carry. When receiving a call, it vibrates, so you do not miss any call. It is Bluetooth enabled and comes with amazing features such as voice dialing and transferring a call.
- Type – Earbud; Neckband completely wireless.
- Bluetooth V4. 1 connectivity.
- CSR import chip.
- CVC6.0 resistance to noise reduction that lets you enjoy music without interruption.
- It uses Lithium Ion AAA batteries, included in the pack.
- Stand by time: Up to 300 hours.
- Talk time: up to 10 hours
- Music pay time: Up to 8 hours
- Charging time: Less than two hours.
- The earbuds fit exactly and don’t fall out.
- It is compact and easy to carry. Can be carried in purse or pocket to office.
- The headphone alerts you on receiving a call by shaking.
- It comes with skip-free stereo sound quality.
- The headset is sweatproof, which makes it convenient to wear, especially when running and exercising.
- The earplug and the slot are all magnetic design. When not in use, they are directly plugged into the slot.
- It is compatible with Android phones. Using the headset, you can redial the last number, transfer a call, put a call on wait, and voice dial. It is convenient for hands-free use.
- Quality can be improved.
4. Roxxio Moov Wireless Bluetooth Earphone
Roxxio Moov wireless Bluetooth earphone is all-weather compatible.
It is dustproof, waterproof, sweatproof, and splash-proof. It has fast charging functionality and long playtime.
This hand-free earphone has an ear fit design, that enables you to listen to music and talk to your loved ones for hours.
It is ideal for outdoor, gym, travel, office, and gaming.
- The headset has ipx7 technology with a nano-x coating that prevents water and sweat damages.
- It uses the latest CSR chip (CSR8635) for high fidelity HD sound.
- The headphone has CVC 6.0 noise cancellation technology that eliminates background noise for perfect speech transmission in busy and noisy environments.
- It has the latest Bluetooth 4.1 technology with 30 feet range that supports quick and stable signal transmission, better sound quality, and reduced power consumption.
- Talk time/Music time: Eight hours
- Standby: 250 hours
- Battery: 110 mAh battery. Sixty percent of the battery can be charged within 30 mins.
- Compatible with iOS, Android devices, windows, PSP devices that have Bluetooth functionality.
- It comes with a carry case and cord clip.
- The headset pairs with the smartphone seamlessly.
- It has a nice built and tangle-free cable.
- The headset has an ergonomic snug fit design and doesn’t fall from the ears when in rigorous exercise.
- It is light in weight and comfortable to wear as the earplugs have silicon tips.
- The headset comes with a control media playback that lets you change the music without accessing the device.
- It is waterproof but doesn’t work when swimming.
5. boAt Rockerz 265 Sports In-Ear Wireless Earphones
These in-ear wireless headphones from boAt Rockerz come with an IPX 4 rating making it water-resistant. It has a flexible headband and comfortable fit that prevents the earbuds from slipping off.
Hence, you can run wearing these headphones even during harsh weather conditions.
It can also be used during intense workout sessions as it built-in pedometer gives you the readings related to the steps taken, calories burnt and the distance traveled while ensuring high power sound with treble and bass.
- Features 10 mm drivers with a frequency response of 20 Hz-20000 Hz.
- It comes with a multi-functional button on the headset that allows you to control the volume, change tracks, pause/play, and answer calls.
- Has an IPX4 water-resistant rating.
- It has a Bluetooth 4.1 connectivity that allows wireless connection up to a range of 30 feet.
- The rechargeable battery of 110 mAh offers a playtime of 6 hours and a standby time of 220 hours.
- It features a powerful chipset for ensuring a stable Bluetooth connection.
- The in-built pedometer readings will notify you of the steps taken, traveled distance, and calories burnt.
- It comes with a flexible headband for easy adjustment.
- Full charge requires 1.5 hours using the USB cable.
- 1-year warranty.
- Supports dual pairing at once.
- Delivers powerful and energetic sound with a high bass level.
- The flexible headband and comfortable fit keep the earbuds from falling off during intense workouts and while running.
- Ideal for running in harsh weather conditions, biking, hiking, etc.
- The calls received are of HD quality.
- Long battery life.
- The build quality was not up to the mark.
6. Bose Sound Sport Limited Edition Wireless Headphones
The Bose truly wireless headphones come with a magnetized charging case that will store them conveniently so that you never lose them.
It also comes with the Bose connect app where you can manage connections and switch between devices.
You can also use the ‘Find My Buds‘ feature to know the last location where your headphones were connected to your phone, so you never lose your earbud.
- Type: In-ear truly wireless headphone.
- Comes with an IPX4 rating with water repellent mesh.
- Comes with an angled nozzle with three pairs of sports earbuds.
- Voice prompt option to make Bluetooth pairing convenient.
- Pause and play, volume change, take call button controls.
- Bose connect app helps you know the last location where your headphones were connected to your phone.
- It comes with a magnetized charging case.
- Ten hours of battery life with 5 hours of playtime.
- 1-year warranty.
- Provides clear and convincing sound with a reliable and robust signal.
- Secure and comfortable fit.
- The easy controls allow you to access Siri or Google assistant.
- The Bose Connect app enables you to find your lost earbuds.
- Noise cancellation feature is not good enough.
7. ADL Neckband In Ear Earphones
The ADL in-ear Bluetooth earphones by ADL Music comes with foldable wireless neckband with mic ideal for a workout.
These black colored earphones have Specially crafted metal alloy ear-shells with a 10 mm dynamic driver that provides superior HD stereo bass and comes with noise isolation technology.
The buttons on the earphones like play, pause, previous track, next track, answer, end call, and reject give you a hands-free experience. The headphones have built-in magnets that will lock the earphones together when not in use hence making them easy to carry around.
It includes 3 pairs of ultra-soft silicone ear tips (S/M/L) that makes the headphones comfortable for anyone and are specially built for the gym, jogging, sports, training.
- The earphones weigh 36.3 g, thus making them lightweight and dimensions of 91 x 1 x 0.5 cm.
- The device requires a voltage of 3.7V.
- The earphones are made of Plastic metallic controller+ steel foldable neckband and metal ear shell.
- IPX4 Water Resistant makes the headphone sweatproof hence you can use them running, jogging, hiking, or in the gym.
- The built-in HD microphone gives you a superior call quality and lets you seamlessly switch between listening to great music and making calls with crystal clear sound.
- The earphones let you connect wirelessly through Bluetooth V4.2 to ensure signal stability. The farthest connection is 33 feet/10 meter and is compatible with iOS, Android, Windows, and almost all Bluetooth devices.
- The earphones require 1 Lithium-ion battery which is already included and provide battery life up to 6 hours of call/music with 2 hours charging time
- The bendable and foldable earphones are ideal for long wear and easy to pack when not in use, while the 10 m working range make sure you enjoy the music even from a distance.
- The components included are 1 Unit Footloose, 2 Sets of Silicone Eartips, 1 Unit blister, 1 Unit Charging Cable, 1 Unit User Manual.
- The product comes with a 6 months warranty.
- Sturdy built quality and trendy neckband, which is adjustable.
- The earphone length is perfect and adequate.
- Easily switches between devices and charges quickly.
- Suitable for deep and extreme bass lovers.
- Premium sound quality with a long-lasting battery.
- The earpieces might be somewhat uncomfortable.
8. JBL Endurance In-Ear Sport Headphones
The JBL endurance run BT in-ear sport headphones are wireless and sweatproof. These red-colored headphones help you stream wirelessly while you workout with powerful JBL sound.
With the Flip Hook design, you can adapt to an in-ear or behind-the-ear fit for added convenience.
A comfortable combination of Flex Soft ear tips and Twist Lock technology makes the earbuds super comfortable and never falls out. The Bluetooth wireless allows you to stream 6 hours of wireless playback with high-quality music without the mess of wire tangling.
- The product weighs just 4.54 g making it lightweight and has dimensions of 3.6 x 9.5 x 16.1 Centimetres.
- The headphones are IPX5 Sweatproof designed to endure your high-intensity workout sessions in any weather.
- The silicon magnetic earbuds allow you to easily manage the headphones when not in use.
- The In-line one-button remote with microphone enables you hands-free calling.
- The headphones come with Google Now or Siri voice assistant.
- A lithium-ion battery is required at last up to 6 hours.
- The headphones come with a 1-year warranty and come with a 3.5 mm jack.
- Other components included are 3 x Sizes of ear tips, Enhancer, Charging Cable, Safety Sheet.
- Premium build quality and passive noise cancellation.
- The uniquely designed buttons on the headphones make them easy to use.
- Superior mice quality for calling.
- Funky and trendy look.
- Earbuds are very soft and decent audio detailing.
- The volume control socket and the other socket makes the headphone bulky.
9. Jaybird Run XT True Wireless Headphones
Jaybird Run XT is an in-ear truly wireless headphone that comes with interchangeable silicone ear tips and ear gels for ensuring a secure, comfortable fit to athletes while running.
These are waterproof and sweatproof headphones that work well in the rain or even while running and intense workout sessions.
They come with a charging case that offers 12 hours of playtime along with a fast-charging capability.
- Type: In-ear truly wireless headphones with Bluetooth connectivity.
- The headphone comes with a charging case, round and oval silicone earbuds, a USB charging cable and Silicone ear gels.
- The interchangeable silicone tips ensure a sports fit for athletes and runners.
- It has an IPX7 rating and a double hydrophobic nano-coating making it waterproof and sweat proof.
- The battery offers 4 hours of playtime per charge and an additional 8 hours of charge in the case.
- Five minutes of charge provides 1 hour of play time.
- Provides premium sound with Custom EQ for a personalized experience.
- Fast charging battery.
- Earbuds ensure a secure and comfortable fit.
- Light-weight design.
- Some connectivity issues can be seen.
10. ALFO Ace Wireless Headphones
It is one of the best sports earphones for a workout and running. These are wireless Bluetooth earphones with high fidelity HD sound.
It has many features that favor fitness freaks like water-resistant materials, lightweight, stereo sounds, and noise canceling.
It sits comfortably in your ears and remains stable during the workout. It comes along with the noise cancelation technology and long battery life for you to run as long as you want.
- Bluetooth connection
- Wireless
- Waterproof
- Sweatproof
- Noise Cancellation CVC 6.0
- Dynamic Stereo Sound
- Long Battery up to 8 hours of playback time
- Rechargeable in 1.5 hours
- Operation range 10M
- Fast Recharge
- Flexible Earhooks
- The high fidelity HD sound
- Comfortable and stable
- Call functions with pick up, reject, mute, and redial options with easy to operate button functionalities2
- It is IPX7 Waterproof.
- Ultra long playtime up to 8 hours
- Lightweight and comfortable fit
- Less charging time is required
- The earbuds might annoy the eardrum if placed for a long period.
11. Sony MDR-AS210AP Open-Ear Active Sports Headphones
Sony is a well-known brand, and the headphones do not disappoint you in that matter. It fits perfectly in your ears for outdoor running and jogging.
The splash-proof and sweat-proof design is outstanding and compliments the build.
You do not have to worry about your small or large ear size as it has an adjustable earloop to fit according to ear size. The included clip keeps it from falling, and the in-line microphone helps you attend calls.
- 13.5 mm dynamic driver unit
- Splash-proof and sweat proof design
- In-line microphone
- Adjustable ear loop
- Serrated cord to keep it tangle-free
- 1.2m flexible cord
- 104 dB/mW sensitivity
- 17-22,000 Hz frequency range
- The build quality is good and sturdy.
- Will not fall off while running or jogging.
- Thick wires avoid wearing and tearing.
- Mediocre sound with lesser quality bass.
- Might encounter disturbing voices while attending calls.
12. Tantra Trumpet T-900 Headphones
The premium wired sports headphone steals the show with its thumping bass and treble that keeps you going with enthusiasm. The three pairs of silicone ear tips ensure that they stay secure in your ears, and the flexible ear hooks help you run comfortably.
They are lightweight, and that gives you the advantage of not burdening yourself while working out. With the effortless handling and clear music, these make an amazing pair of headphones.
- In line remote and mic
- Wired
- Noise isolation technology
- Ultra secure Ear hook design
- 20Hz-20KHz frequency
- 102dB/mW sensitivity
- 160ohms impedance
- Four-conductor 3.5mm plug
- 1.2m cord length
- 12.8g weight
- 3.5mm stereo jack
- High-quality dynamic speakers
- Hands-free calling
- It has a good call clarity.
- The wires don’t get tangled
- Can be carried around with the carry case that is of good quality.
- A snug fit in the ears is comfortable.
- The fitting tends to loosen with time.
- Prolonged wear might be painful for some people.
13. BasX Bluetooth headphones
The design makes it best for running and jogging. It is sweatproof and waterproof and can be worn in under any weather condition.
The neckband design and tangle-free wires are advantageous and appreciable. Bluetooth V4.2 technology is what makes the connection amazing and best.
Clear cut voice and noise cancellation make it peaceful for receiving calls. The latest Bluetooth technology makes the headphones less power consuming. It has wide compatibility and is suitable for any device.
- Neckband design
- waterproof
- Tangle-free wires
- Bluetooth V4.2 technology
- EDR for stereo and bass
- Built-in Mic
- Voice notification for calls
- 30ft Bluetooth range
- Wide compatibility
- Noise isolation technology
- Adjustable for comfort
- It has an amazing bass with crisp sound.
- It is Tangle-free and good quality wires.
- It has a metal earpiece which is better than a plastic earpiece.
- The buttons are sturdy.
- It has a large button system.
- Not stable in the ears.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can you wear overhead headphones while running?
Wearing an Overhead headphone might be uncomfortable while running as you tend to feel hot and sweat a lot.
2 . Are wireless earbuds good for running?
Wireless headphones are an excellent choice for running as there is no need for connecting it manually to the smartphone. This also eliminates the hassle wires that may pose while running or working out.
Wireless earbuds connect to your device wirelessly and ensure a comfortable, secure fit that prevents them from slipping off.
3. Can I wear running headphones when it is raining?
Yes. It would defeat the wicking feature of the headband, but you can still wear them in the rain. If the speakers get wet, they will start to sound funny.
It would not damage them. Just take them out of the headband and hang them up to dry.
They should work fine once dried. Its recommend dunking the speakers into buckets of water for long periods, but if they get a little wet, they will recover.
4. Wireless or regular headphones which ones are the better option for running?
Wireless seems the better option since it would not cause any obstacle while running and letting the user enjoy their run. Whereas if you used regular headphones with wires, it might irritate wire might get caught between hand movements while running.
5. Which features to look out for a while buying headphones for working out?
With all the advancements in technology, headphones are much more than what they are meant to be. Features like USB slot and heartbeat sensors make they super savvy.
But few of the features that need to be present in any headphones are it being sweat-proof, wireless and noise cancellation feature.
4. What should be the average battery life?
Battery life generally differs from brand to brand. The average battery life of any wireless headphone should be at least 5-6 hours and 2-3 hours should be the time it needs to be charged.
Conclusion
Everyone we see has a pair of headphones clinging on to their ears. It has become a necessity for entertainment to hang out with us every time.
With digital technology rising and hitting the peak, we need to make proper use of it.
Headphones for running is difficult to choose as it depends on a lot of things that shouldn’t come in your way during a workout. However, if you keep in mind the above criteria, shopping gets fun and interesting!
There are overpriced headphones and affordable ones. With a steady mind, you can find your perfect pair.
For a high-quality design, the most promising brands such as TaoTronics, ALFO, can come into the picture. If you a looking for something below 1,000 rupees, brands like Phillips, BasX, Tantra Tantrum do justice.
If the headphones are comfortable and affordable, it is THE ONE!
