Tested by 
Personally, I cannot fathom running without some form of entertainment. And I get that finding the best headphones for running is crucial to getting through those miles, no matter if you’re a casual jogger or hardcore marathoner. But with a dizzying array of options out there—from earbuds to bone-conduction headphones to sporty sunglasses—it’s hard to pick which ones you want or need.
That’s why we did the hard work for you, testing a gazillion different ’buds to bring you only the cream of the crop. You can forget about constantly readjusting loose earbuds or battling tangled wires, because these selections were chosen to stay put and deliver crystal-clear sound mile after mile, so that when you get to the good part of your podcast, it’s not going to drop out. We’re talking about headphones that can handle sweat, rain, and the accidental drop, so you can focus on your stride, not your tech.
Over the past decade, headphone technology has seen significant advancements, particularly in wireless connectivity and sound quality. Bluetooth technology has greatly improved, offering more stable connections and higher-quality audio. Noise cancellation has also become more sophisticated, with many headphones now featuring active noise cancellation that can adapt to different environments or are adjustable in the app. Bone conduction technology is also readily available now, giving runners a different listening experience that leaves the ears open. A perfect fit and pristine sound quality will make your runs more enjoyable—and feel faster.
Best Headphones for Running
- Best Overall: Shokz OpenRun Pro 2
- Best Value: JLab Go Sport+
- Best Sound: Beats Powerbeats Pro 2
- Best Open-Ear Headphones: OpenRock X Headphones
- Includes in-ear, hook headphones, bone conduction, open-ear headphones, and headphones with storage: Suunto Aqua
Using stem controls can cause you to pull the earbuds loose
Runner’s World editors have been testing gear tirelessly for over 50 years. That means a lot of miles in a lot of shoes—mid-run music has become a godsend for plenty of us as we tap out our favorite loops day after day. In short, we review products with a focus on finding the best tech for avid runners.
All of the earbuds we recommend here are here because we’ve run with them, sweat all over them, toyed with their fit, and ultimately enjoyed them. We’re not just throwing AirPods on this list because everyone has them, for example—we eschewed the latest version in favor of the Physical button controls for easy use during exercise, which offer a more snug fit.
Nobody else contributes to our decision-making process, especially not the brands we’ve picked. Every round of recommendations goes through the same set of evaluations, ensuring that all of our new options still have the same level of quality that was present in our initial roundup.
Garmin will scan for nearby earbuds and you can
To pinpoint the best running headphones, our team put each pair through thorough, real-world testing for weeks—and sometimes even months. (And not for anything, I’ve had a pair of the original Beats Pro for 5 years, and they’re still rocking.) We had all kinds of runners try them out, from marathoners to casual joggers, to make sure our results would work for everyone. This way, we got feedback on comfort, fit, and performance for every running style and distance.
Our tests weren’t just in one spot; we put these headphones through all sorts of situations to see how tough and functional they really are. This meant runs in different weather, from sunshine to sudden downpours, and at various elevations, to check their performance under different physical stresses. We also tested them in places with different noise levels—from quiet trails where you don’t need to hear much around you, to busy city streets where safety and clear sound are super important.
Through this rigorous evaluation, we were able to pinpoint headphones that could withstand sweat, accidental drops, and general wear and tear associated with regular running. We paid close attention to factors like secure fit, battery life, sound quality, and the effectiveness of features like noise cancellation and ambient awareness in real-world scenarios.
Become a Runner’s World+ member for exclusive access to product testing opportunities!
Full Reviews
Pros
- We found them to be loud enough to enjoy but still allow you to be aware
- We love how long we could forget to charge these
- Charges quickly for when we forget to charge them
- The most precise controls we found
Cons
- Bass and sound quality could be better especially compared to others on this list
- Open ear headphones lead to sound leakage
- No wireless charging
Key Specs
| Battery (buds) | 12 hours |
|---|---|
| Battery (case) | N/A |
| Type | Bone Conduction, Wireless |
| Water Resistance | IP55 |
| Noise-Canceling | No |
| Transparency Mode | No |
The Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 headphones are a real game-changer for runners who want great sound without sacrificing safety or comfort. Aly Ellis, our Director of Content Hype, sums it up perfectly: “These are my favorite running headphones ever, specifically, the Kipchoge edition. They get loud enough that you can hear them while running, but you can hear noise and traffic around you. I listen to music, podcasts, and audiobooks while wearing mine, and they all sound great!”
That open-ear design is the magic here—it keeps you aware of your surroundings, whether you’re dodging bikes on a trail or crossing busy streets.
Sound quality is where the OpenRun Pro 2 really shines, thanks to dual drivers that blend crisp highs from bone conduction with deep bass from air conduction tech that give a unique, immersive sound. You get 12 hours of battery life, so you can go for long runs (or even a marathon!) without worrying about charging. The fit is secure and stable, with ergonomic ear hooks and a memory wire frame that stays put no matter how much you sweat or move around.
Another standout is the dedicated EQ modes in the Shokz app, letting you tweak your audio for different environments—boost it when it’s noisy, or keep it classic for everyday runs. Calls are crystal clear, even in windy conditions, thanks to dual microphones and smart noise reduction. If you want headphones that sound great, stay comfortable, and keep you safe and aware, the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 is tough to beat.
Pros
- Performs basic functions well, (the best we tested at this price point)
- Battery lasts up to 9 hours
- Higher IP rating than more expensive buds, which is great for our sweaty testers
Cons
- Lackluster sound quality
- mdash;it’s hard to pick which ones you want or need
Key Specs
| Battery (buds) | 9 hours |
|---|---|
| Battery (case) | 26 hours |
| Type | Truly Wireless Earbuds with Ear Hooks |
| Water Resistance | IP55 |
| Noise-Canceling | No |
| Transparency Mode | Yes |
The JLab Go Sport+ headphones are a fantastic option for runners and fitness fans who want reliable, sweatproof wireless earbuds without breaking the bank. These earbuds are all about getting the basics right: with an IP55 sweat and dirt resistance rating, they can handle even your sweatiest, muddiest workouts. The over-ear hooks and three sizes of silicone ear tips mean you get a secure, comfortable fit—no matter how much you move, these buds stay put without pinching or slipping.
One of the biggest highlights is battery life: You get 9-plus hours per earbud, plus another 26-plus from the charging case, for a whopping 35 hours total. That’s more than enough for a week of workouts, and the integrated USB cable makes recharging the case a breeze. Pairing is simple, especially if you’re on Android thanks to Google Fast Pair, and the connection is rock-solid up to 50 feet away.
The sound quality could be better. It can sound a bit tinny and awkward when you’re expecting something bolder or more rounded. For under $30, though, they’re nothing to laugh at. And with the features and battery life, we think it’s a fair trade.
The JLab Go Sport+ also includes a "Be Aware" mode, which lets in ambient sound so you can stay alert on busy streets or trails. And with the JLab app, you can customize your sound profile and touch controls to suit your preferences. While the audio quality isn’t as rich or dynamic as that of some pricier competitors—think a bit hollow, especially if you’re an audiophile—it’s more than good enough for podcasts, playlists, and calls on the go.
All in all, if you’re after affordable, dependable, and comfortable wireless earbuds for running or the gym, the JLab Go Sport+ is a solid pick that punches above its price point.
Beats Powerbeats Pro 2
Pros
- Secure, comfortable earhook design that stays put during intense workouts (a team favorite!)
- Excellent sound quality with rich bass, clear highs, and balanced mids
- Fast charging and long battery life which our ADHD editor, Cat Bowen adores
- Physical button controls for easy use during exercise
Cons
- Volume controls on the stem that we had no problem working even with sweaty hands
- No customizable EQ or sound presets, which is disappointing at this price
- Some users may have trouble achieving a perfect ear tip seal, affecting noise cancellation
Key Specs
| Battery (buds) | Up to 10 hours per bud with ANC off (8 hours with ANC on) |
|---|---|
| Battery (case) | Up to 35 additional hours with ANC off (28 hours with ANC on); total up to 45 hours |
| Type | True wireless, in-ear, with secure-fit earhooks |
| Water Resistance | IPX4 |
| Noise-Canceling | Yes |
| Transparency Mode | Yes |
The Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 earbuds are designed to stay put, thanks to flexible earhooks and five ear tip sizes, so you can focus on your run instead of fiddling with your headphones. The IPX4 water resistance means they’ll handle sweat and rain without a hitch.
The sound quality is on point—expect punchy bass and crisp highs (as someone who has worn these, Hamilton has never sounded better), which blend into a nicely balanced sound that makes your playlists pop. Its active noise cancellation and transparency modes are handy, letting you block out the gym clatter and your children’s video game sounds when you want to focus, or let in the world when you’re running on the street and would rather not be taken out by a minivan.
Battery life is another big win. You get up to 10 hours per bud (8 if you’re using ANC), and the charging case stretches your total playtime to an astonishing 45 hours. Forgot to charge? No worries—a quick five-minute boost gives you over an hour of listening time.
There are a few drawbacks: the price is on the higher side, and the new heart rate monitoring feature isn’t quite polished yet, especially for iPhone users. Plus, there’s no customizable EQ, which might disappoint anyone who likes to fine-tune their sound.
Overall, the Powerbeats Pro 2 are a nice pick if you want secure, great-sounding earbuds that go the distance—just don’t expect them to replace your fitness tracker.
Pros
- Comfortable, lightweight open-ear design
- Secure, adjustable fit that stays put
- Excellent battery life in a charging case that we found can take some damage and still come out swinging
Cons
- Best Winged Buds
- Limited bass so not good for EDM fans
- No active noise cancellation but the open ear doesn't bleed as much as others we tested
Key Specs
| Battery (buds) | 6 hours |
|---|---|
| Battery (case) | 18 hours |
| Type | Truly wireless |
| Water Resistance | IPX4 |
| Noise-Canceling | No |
| Transparency Mode | Always-on |
The OpenRock X headphones are simply impeccable. As someone who’s sweated through (and destroyed) more headphones than I care to admit, I was pleasantly surprised by how comfortable and durable these open-ear sport earbuds are. Thanks to their clever adjustable fit, they stayed in through everything, from sprints to sweaty HIIT sessions. And I never felt that dreaded ear fatigue. Even better, the IPX5 water resistance means they shrugged off my sweatiest workouts without missing a beat.
Sound-wise, the OpenRock X delivers a surprisingly full listening experience for open-ear headphones, with everything from show tunes to the dulcet sounds of Richard Attenborough, especially in rock mode (maybe Attenborough doesn’t need rock mode, but I think he’d appreciate it all the same). The LISO 2.0 algorithm and BassDirect tech do a nice job of keeping things groovy.
That said, the volume control can be a little finicky—it sometimes felt tricky to land on the “just right” setting, which might be the trade-off for that open-ear design. Still, being able to hear traffic and stay situationally aware is a good safety point for runners who can zone out pretty hard.
One of my favorite features is the charging case. It’s slim, sturdy, and slides into the tiny pocket in my leggings with zero fuss—no more awkward sliding around or expensive lost cases at the gym. Add in 12 hours of playtime per charge (48 hours with the case) and fast charging, and you’ve got a pair of headphones that can keep up with even the most relentless training schedule. If you want comfort, awareness, and sweatproof reliability, the OpenRock X is a winner—just be ready to fiddle with the volume a bit.
Suunto Aqua
Pros
- Fully waterproof (IP68) with tons of storage for our favorite tunes
- 32GB onboard storage for phone-free listening
- Multiple sound modes for different environments
- The 7 Best Walking Pads for Your Home Office
Cons
- Sounds hollow compared to in-ear headphones, but they do work in the water, so...
- You need to download your music to listen while swimming
Key Specs
| Battery (buds) | Credit: Cat Bowen |
|---|---|
| Battery (case) | Up to 20 additional hours; total up to 30 hours |
| Type | True wireless, open-ear, bone conduction with flexible band |
| Water Resistance | IP68 (waterproof to 5 meters for 2 hours) |
| Noise-Canceling | No |
| Transparency Mode | Always On |
The Suunto Aqua headphones are a joy for athletes who want to take their music literally everywhere—even underwater. Designed with bone conduction tech and a flexible, banded open-ear fit, these headphones are the perfect pick for runners, cyclists, and especially swimmers. Features Editor Pavlína Černá raves, “They are great, I can continue listening to my audiobooks on the run while also being aware of what’s happening around me and feeling safe.”
The open-ear design means you’ll never lose track of traffic ordrown out training partners or poolside lifeguards, and at just 35 grams, you’ll forget you’re even wearing them.
“They hold in place very well and are super light and waterproof so I don’t worry about wearing them in whatever weather Pennsylvania throws at us,” Ċerná says.
Thanks to IP68 waterproofing, you can swim up to 5 meters deep, and the band stays secure whether you’re running, riding, or doing laps. The 32GB onboard storage is a game-changer for swimmers—store hours of music or audiobooks and leave your phone behind.
Audio quality is solid for bone conduction, with three sound modes (Normal, Outdoor, Underwater) to help you get the best from your tunes, though don’t expect the richness of in-ear buds. Controls are easy to use, even if the button layout takes a little getting used to. Battery life is a respectable 10 hours per charge, with 20 extra hours from the case.
As Černá sums up, “I do other sports outside of just running, so the fact that they are just as great for riding, for example, definitely adds to their value.”
If you want headphones that can keep up with every adventure—rain, shine, or swim—the Suunto Aqua is a smart, durable pick.
Apple Airpods Pro 2
Pros
- Improved sound from previous generation, way better on our testing
- Volume controls on the stem that we had no problem working even with sweaty hands
- Nutrition - Weight Loss
Cons
- The 6 Best Energy Gels for Runners
Key Specs
| Battery (buds) | 6 hours |
|---|---|
| Battery (case) | 24 hours |
| Type | Truly Wireless Earbuds |
| Water Resistance | IPX4 |
| Noise-Canceling | Yes |
| Transparency Mode | Yes |
Apple’s Physical button controls for easy use during exercise are the gold standard for wireless earbuds, and also the most ubiquitous. They’re the overwhelming favorite earbuds on the market. I think that’s largely due to the fact that the moment you pop them in, you notice the comfortable, secure fit (thanks to four ear tip sizes) and Apple’s signature ergonomic design. Whether you’re commuting, running, or just trying to listen to your romance novel audiobook without scandalizing your family, these buds stay put and feel featherlight.
Thanks to a custom high-excursion driver and Apple's H2 chip, your hype music comes in sharp and booming, even in loud environments. Apple's active noise cancellation is superior among the best of the best, and adaptive transparency mode lets you hear what’s going on around you to the level you can stand when you’re trying to get your workout on. Adaptive audio and conversation awareness are new for this version which automatically blend ANC and transparency or they lower your volume when you start talking. Personally, I didn’t notice this sound degradation, but my husband says that to him, it’s noticeable.
Battery life is pretty good—up to 6 hours per bud and 30 hours total with the little white case. The case itself is instantly recognizable, supports wireless and USB-C charging, and even has a speaker and Find My integration for those inevitable “where did I put them?” moments. (And not for anything, there’s about a million ways to customize these if you’re on Etsy.) They’re also IP54 rated, so they’ll handle sweat and a little rain, though they’re not meant for swimming laps like the Suunto Aqua.
They aren’t perfect, though. The case scratches easily, and you get the best experience only if you’re using Apple devices. Still, for iPhone users who want top-tier sound, seamless controls, and noise cancellation that actually works, the Physical button controls for easy use during exercise are going to be an obvious go-to for many runners.
Sony LinkBuds Fit Truly Wireless Noise Canceling Earbud
Pros
- The most precise controls we found
- The wings fit really snug compared to even other wing styles we tested
- Tons of color options, but we love the pink best
Cons
- Not for driving or anywhere you need to concentrate
Key Specs
| Battery (buds) | 5.5 hours |
|---|---|
| Battery (case) | 21 hours |
| Type | In ear |
| Water Resistance | IPX4 splashproof |
| Noise-Canceling | Yes |
| Transparency Mode | Yes |
| Bluetooth Multipoint | 2 points |
The noise-canceling tech blocks out distractions so you can fully dive into your music, though they’re not the best for driving since they quiet too much even in transparency mode. Touch controls feel smooth, with volume adjusting in tiny, gentle steps—no sudden bursts to startle your ears. Sound quality is crisp and lively thanks to dynamic drivers, and Bluetooth 5.3 keeps the connection rock solid. Battery life is marathon-ready, lasting up to 8 hours with noise canceling on. These buds combine cuteness, comfort, and serious performance for anyone on the move.
Pros
- We love that they're sunglasses, audio, and camera in one
- Open-ear design for safety
- The most precise controls we found
- Water and Sweat Resistance
- Sweat- and rain-resistant
Cons
- Higher IP rating than more expensive buds, which is great for our sweaty testers
- May need nose pad tweaks for secure fit
- Battery may not last ultramarathons
- Some sound leakage
Key Specs
| Battery (buds) | 4 hours |
|---|---|
| Battery (case) | 36 hours |
| Type | Smart glasses with open-ear audio, polarized sunglasses, and camera |
| Water Resistance | IPX4 |
| Noise-Canceling | No |
| Transparency Mode | Always-on (open-ear design) |
| Camera | 12MP photo / 1080p video |
| Storage | 500 photos or 100 60-second videos |
The Ray-Ban Meta Wayfarer smart glasses are a triple threat for anyone who wants more than just headphones: for a price similar to other premium earbuds on this list, you’re also getting classic polarized sunglasses and a built-in camera, all wrapped up in a retro-feeling Wayfarer (or Headliner) frame. If you’re the type who loves multitasking or capturing moments on the go, these glasses are just so much fun. (You should see how many random pics of my hubs and kids I have from these!)
I found them surprisingly easy to wear for hours at a time. That said, the fit wasn’t perfect out of the box—I had to add felt pads to the nose bridge to keep them from sliding down, but that’s a quick fix and well worth it for the added stability. The open-ear speakers are discreet and let you enjoy music or podcasts without blocking out the world, which is perfect for walks, commutes, or just staying aware of your surroundings. I do wish they got a little louder, but any more volume would mean serious audio leakage, so it’s a reasonable trade-off for privacy.
The built-in 12MP camera is fun for capturing quick photos and videos, and the glasses connect seamlessly to your phone for sharing all those moments you grab on your run. (Don’t just tell everyone you’re a marathoner; show them with pics from every mile.) Battery life is decent—about 4 hours per charge, with a case that bumps total use up to 36 hours. If you want sunglasses, headphones, and a camera in one package, smart glasses like these are a neat new option. Just expect a few compromises compared to dedicated audio or camera gear, but for everyday convenience and style, they’re a standout.
What to Consider
Choosing the right running headphones can really make your run. With so many options available, it’s important to think about what features are most important for your needs. To help guide your decision, here are some key factors to consider when selecting the perfect running headphones.
- Shokz OpenRun Pro 2: Includes in-ear, hook headphones, bone conduction, open-ear headphones, and headphones with storage.
- Sweat- and rain-resistant: Importance of secure fit to prevent slippage during runs.
- Limited bass so not good for EDM fans: Look for IP ratings (e.g., IPX4, IPX5) to ensure durability.
- Battery Life: Considerations for long-distance runners.
- Sound Quality: Balance between bass and clarity.
- Finicky volume control that we found jumps a bit: Depending on running environment (urban vs. trail).
- Smart glasses with open-ear audio, polarized sunglasses, and camera: Ease of use during movement.
Q+A
with Running Reviews Editor Amanda Furrer
Cat Bowen has been covering parenting and home for over a decade. At Best Products, she has tested hundreds of products for parents and for the home, often spending dozens of hours per product to ensure her reviews are accurate and informative. Prior to joining the team, she was at Romper where she covered everything from breastfeeding to child sleep habits to abortion rights access. You can find her work on Bustle, Romper, and more. Cat is a bit of an intellectual magpie and perpetual student, most recently receiving a graduate degree in gender studies where she examined a topic that vexes so many — pockets in women’s clothing.
Jeff is Runner-in-Chief for Runner’s World and the director of product testing. He has tested and reviewed running shoes, GPS watches, headphones, apparel, and more for nearly two decades. He regularly tests more than 100 pairs of shoes each year, and once had a 257-day streak running in different models. Jeff can usually be found on the roads, racing anything from the mile to a marathon, but he also enjoys racing up mountains and on snowshoes. When he’s not running, you’ll probably find him hanging from a ladder making repairs and renovations to his house (he’s also director of product testing for Popular Mechanics).
