Best Wireless Workout Headphones for 2025

Regardless of the type of exercise you engage in, having a reliable pair of wireless workout headphones is essential. These headphones provide the freedom to move without being tethered, whether you’re lifting weights, running a 5K, or spending time at the skate park. With numerous options available, it is crucial to consider factors such as water resistance, battery life, and overall comfort when selecting the right pair for your workouts.

At Engadget, we have tested a variety of fitness-ready headphones and earbuds to compile our top recommendations. Each of our selections is suitable for both gym use and everyday activities, allowing you to invest in a single pair that meets all your audio needs. If you are primarily a runner, be sure to check out our list of best headphones for running.

Best Workout Headphones for 2025

In this section, we will explore the top wireless workout headphones available in 2025, highlighting their features and benefits.

Other Wireless Workout Headphones We Tested

Apple AirPods Pro

The Apple AirPods Pro feature an IP54 rating, offering protection against dust and splashes. While this level of water resistance is comparable to many exercise-specific competitors, the AirPods Pro are generally well-regarded. However, the Beats Fit Pro provide similar features, including an effective transparency mode and the H1 chip, with a design that is more suited for workouts.

Beats Powerbeats Pro

The Powerbeats Pro serve as a solid alternative to the Beats Fit Pro for those who prefer a hook design. However, they are priced approximately $50 higher than the Fit Pro, often retailing around $180, without offering significant upgrades or additional features. Launched in 2019, the Powerbeats Pro appear to be overshadowed by newer models as Beats focuses on enhancing their latest offerings.

Anker Soundcore AeroFit Pro

The Soundcore AeroFit Pro is Anker’s take on the Shokz OpenFit, but it falls short in terms of security and comfort. The earbuds are bulkier than those of the OpenFit, leading to more frequent adjustments during exercise. While they never completely fell out, the need for constant readjustment detracted from the overall experience.

JBL Endurance Peak 3

The standout feature of the Endurance Peak 3 is their IP68 rating, which matches that of the now-discontinued Jabra Elite 8 Active, yet they are priced at only $100. Despite this impressive protection, the Endurance Peak 3 does not excel in sound quality or comfort, with a more rigid hook design compared to other similar models. Additionally, their charging case is notably larger than most competitors.

What to Look for in Workout Headphones

Design

This guide primarily focuses on wireless earbuds. While over-ear or on-ear headphones can be used during workouts, most available options do not offer the same durability. Water and dust resistance are crucial for any audio gear intended for sweaty or outdoor activities, making wireless earbuds a popular choice.

Most earbuds come in one of three designs: in-ear, in-ear with hook, or open-ear. In-ear designs are the most common, while those with hooks provide enhanced security and fit. Open-ear designs rest outside the ear canal, allowing for greater awareness of the surrounding environment while listening to audio, which may be more comfortable for users who dislike the intrusiveness of in-ear buds.

Water Resistance and Dust Protection

Even if headphones are not specifically marketed for exercise, a robust, water-resistant design makes them suitable for workouts. Understanding durability ratings, or ingress protection (IP) ratings, is essential. The first digit after “IP” indicates dust protection, rated from 1 to 6, while the second digit refers to water resistance, rated from 1 to 9. Higher numbers indicate better protection, while an “X” signifies no rating.

All earbuds tested for this guide have at least an IPX4 rating, meaning they can withstand splashes from any direction and are sweat-resistant, though they should not be submerged. For a detailed breakdown of IP ratings, refer to a guide published by The Enclosure Company.

Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency Mode

Active noise cancellation (ANC) is increasingly common in wireless earbuds, particularly those at higher price points. If you seek a pair that can serve as both a workout companion and an everyday audio solution, ANC is a valuable feature. It allows users to block out ambient noise, enhancing focus during workouts or providing solitude during commutes.

However, the ability to adjust noise cancellation levels is equally important. Many ANC earbuds include a “transparency mode,” which allows users to hear their surroundings while listening to audio. This feature is particularly crucial for outdoor exercise, as it helps maintain awareness of potential hazards. Conversely, stronger noise cancellation may be preferred for indoor training to block out distractions.

Battery Life

Most Bluetooth earbuds tested offer a battery life of six to eight hours, which is generally sufficient for most athletes and gym-goers. Some models can even provide up to 15 hours on a single charge. It is advisable to keep the charging case handy, especially if you anticipate using the earbuds for extended periods.

Charging cases typically offer an additional 20 to 28 hours of battery life, with all tested earbuds providing at least 15 extra hours. This factor influences how often you need to charge the device, whether by connecting the case to a charging cable or using a wireless charger.

How We Test Workout Headphones

In evaluating wireless workout headphones, I wear them during various exercises, including casual walks, brisk runs, and intense weightlifting sessions. Comfort is my primary concern, as it is essential not to be distracted by ill-fitting earbuds during workouts. I also assess whether the earbuds remain secure during vigorous movements and how they perform when I am sweating.

Additionally, I use the earbuds outside of exercise for calls and music, as many users prefer a single pair for both workouts and daily activities. Therefore, I evaluate each pair based on comfort and sound quality across different scenarios.

While I consider sound quality, I am not an audio expert. My colleague Billy Steele specializes in this area, and you can find more detailed information about audio quality in his reviews and buying guides. For workout headphones, I note any significant audio characteristics, such as strong bass or weak highs. Most wireless workout headphones we tested are compatible with companion apps that allow users to adjust EQ settings, enabling customization of sound profiles.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/audio/headphones/best-wireless-workout-headphones-191517835.html?src=rss