Best for runners who want to block out noise
These sealed earbuds are designed for runners who want to block out external noise, whether it’s the sound of a treadmill or the general din of big-city life.
Top pick: JBL Reflect Aero TWS
Top pick
The JBL Reflect Aero TWS wireless earbuds have an exceptionally high level of protection against water and sweat (with an IP68 rating), and these small, light earbuds should stay securely in place when you run, thanks to their stabilizing wings.
The sealed design and active noise cancellation reduce the sounds of traffic, the gym, or noisy workout equipment. If you need to have a quick conversation or listen for an external sound, the natural-sounding hear-through mode is a tap away. Or when you want more situational awareness, you can choose to wear only one earbud at a time.
The battery life of eight hours is good for true wireless earbuds, and the pocket-size case offers an additional 16 hours of juice.
The six-microphone array successfully reduced wind noise in our tests, and voices sounded clear for phone calls and video chats. This pair can also connect wirelessly to two devices at once.
Google and Alexa users will appreciate the hands-free, voice-activated-assistant compatibility. This pair has touch-based controls that are large and easy to use, and we found that they were less prone to misfires than other touch-based controls we’ve tried.
However, you can assign only two sets of controls: playback controls, ANC/hear-through controls, or volume controls (not all three at the same time). Alexa and Google fans may not mind this, since their preferred digital assistant is always listening for its wake word — so no tap is necessary.
Apple users can access Siri, but it involves a tap-and-hold on the touch control. (If you want hands-free “Hey Siri” control, consider the Beats Fit Pro instead.)
Out of the box, the Reflect Aero TWS earbuds sound good, with some added oomph in the bass and added energy in the frequency range where consonants sit. Many people will enjoy the sound as is, but we liked it better after doing a little EQ tinkering in the app. If anything goes wrong, JBL covers this pair with a one-year warranty.
The stabilizing wings may bother people with sensitive ears or small ear canals. Though the winged design is ideal for running because of its grip, it can be fatiguing to wear for hours on end.
You can read more about this pair in our guide to workout earbuds and headphones.
Budget pick: JLab Go Air Sport
Budget pick
If you don’t want to spend a ton of cash on running earbuds — either because you’re new to the hobby or you jog only once in a while — the durable, affordable JLab Go Air Sport earbuds are a great option. This wireless pair is sweat-resistant, with an IP55 Ingress Protection rating. (JLab recently introduced a new version of these earbuds, called the Go Sport+. The new set is similar in design, but it has a longer claimed battery life, adds a hear-through mode, and uses USB-C charging. We plan to test it soon.)
The hook-over-the-ear design keeps the earbuds securely in place. It’s especially helpful for people with hard-to-fit ears or a super-bouncy stride, and some people may find this design to be more comfortable than earbuds that use stabilizing wings (like the JBL Reflect Aero TWS discussed above).
Eight hours of listening time per charge is ample for most long runs, and the case holds an additional three full charges. You get a full suite of touch-based controls that are reasonably simple to use while you’re in motion — with a little practice.
While the sound quality can’t match that of our more expensive picks, it is still enjoyable — and pretty stellar for $30.
This sealed pair doesn’t let in any outside sounds and has no hear-through mode. It isn’t a good match for runners who want to hear their surroundings to be safe or have a quick conversation without removing their earbuds. As with any sealed earbuds, this pair will amplify footfalls and breathing sounds.
However, like the JBL Reflect Aero TWS set, this pair lets you use either earbud independently, if you prefer to keep one ear open. The large case likely won’t fit in a pocket, but it should fit in a running belt.
The microphone quality is somewhat muffled. People should be able to understand you, but they may ask you to speak up on occasion if you’re naturally soft-spoken.
This pair is the budget pick in our main guide to the best workout earbuds and headphones, so just pop over to that guide to get more details.
Best for runners who want to hear their surroundings
These headphones are designed for outdoor runners who want to be able to hear the world around them for safety, or who simply dislike the feeling of earbuds or headphones covering their ears when they run.
Top pick: Shokz OpenRun Pro 2
Top pick
The Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 headphones combine the benefits of bone-conduction technology — particularly, the ability to keep your ears completely uncovered — with standard speaker drivers that produce a more balanced sound than previous bone-conduction models we’ve tested.
Shokz’s new hybrid design handles bass more effectively. If you’ve tried bone-conduction headphones in the past and weren’t a fan, this set might change your mind. A thin, flexible headband wraps around the back of your head and hooks over your ears, positioning the speaker units just in front of your ears. While bone conduction handles the higher frequencies, Shokz assigned all the low frequencies to mini drivers that direct sound toward your ears. This reduces the cheek-tickling vibrations and increases bass intensity compared with previous bone-conduction designs.
Still, if you’re a bass fiend, this pair isn’t for you. Yes, the Pro 2 has more bass than other bone-conduction headphones, but it’s like drinking lemon La Croix versus drinking water with a squeeze of lemon juice in it. One gives you the sense that something should be there but really isn’t, while the other provides a little more favor but not the intensity of lemonade. In other words, none of these unsealed designs can compete with sealed earbuds in bass performance.
Additionally, because this pair uses physical drivers for bass, if you turn the volume up to the absolute max, you may hear some distortion on bass-forward songs. We didn’t feel the need to go up that loud, so we don’t think it will be an issue for most people.
The lightweight design is available in two sizes. Because this pair relies on contact with your skull to transmit sound waves to your inner ear, it’s important to have a secure fit. Small to medium hat sizes (7½ or smaller) may prefer the Mini size, while sizes 7¾ and up may prefer the Standard size. Both sizes are flexible enough to accommodate a range of head sizes and shapes without pain or pinching, even when wearing glasses.
The physical buttons are easy to find by feel, and they provide control for volume, track forward/reverse, voice-assistant activation, and calls.
Phone calls sounded clear in our tests, even when we were in motion.
An IP55 water- and dust-resistance rating means you can hit the trails on a rainy day with no issues. Just be sure to allow your pair to thoroughly dry before plugging it in to charge via the USB-C cable. The quick-charge function will give you about 2.5 hours of playback after 5 minutes plugged in. When fully charged, the battery should last around 12 hours, depending on the volume at which you listen and the number of calls you take.
Other pairs of Shokz headphones have higher IP ratings, so if you want a fully waterproof pair, we still like the original OpenRun and OpenRun Mini. However, those sets use a proprietary cable that can be very inconvenient if you’re low on power and don’t have your charger handy, and they have less bass response.
Shokz’s two-year warranty will have your back should anything go awry.
Budget pick: Baseus Eli Sport 1
Budget pick
The Baseus Eli Sport 1 wireless earbuds hook over your ears and position the speaker drivers across the ear, rather than in it. The design doesn’t fully block your ear canal, so you’ll be able to hear what’s happening around you.
The hooks are flexible and light and should be compatible with most pairs of glasses. However, if you dislike anything at all near your ear canal, you may prefer the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 instead.
This is the best-sounding pair of open-ear headphones we’ve tested. Although no open-ear headphone set will have as much bass presence as sealed earbuds, the Eli Sport 1 has more than others we’ve tried. Vocals and instruments like keyboards, guitar, and horns sounded authentic through these earbuds.
Where they fell short was in their ability to reproduce deep electronic beats and the resonance of low-pitched instruments like kick drums and double bass. Still, their performance was especially impressive when you consider the lower price.
We also like that this pair has the full complement of tap-based controls. But as with all tap-based controls, occasionally the experience is a bit fussy. Each earbud has a large enough surface area that it’s less susceptible to miscues than smaller earbud designs.
The battery life is about 7.5 hours per charge, with an additional 22 hours in the charging case. The Eli Sport 1 also comes with a removable rope neckband, for runners who like tethered earbuds that can be hung around the neck when not in use.
The IP rating is a somewhat low IPX4. That means the earbuds are protected against a light drizzle, but this pair isn’t the right choice for people who perspire heavily or will still go running in a downpour.
Because of the larger design necessary to house the mini speakers, the charging case is on the bigger size — about the size of a bar of soap — and it doesn’t have a way to hold the neckband. This isn’t a setup that lends itself to being tucked in the key pocket of running shorts, but both will easily slip into a running belt.
An 18-month warranty covers manufacturing defects.
Other running headphones worth considering
If you prefer an ear-cuff design: If you’re interested in an open-ear design that clips onto the side of your ear as opposed to hooking over it, the Soundcore C30i offers the best combination of design, performance, and price. The C30i has less bass response than the Baseus Eli Sport 1, but listening to music is still enjoyable. Plus, the fit is comfortable and stable, and the call quality is clear. The downsides are that the touch controls are small and hard to find, and there’s no EQ tool in the app to fine-tune the sound.
If you want a built-in heart-rate monitor: The Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 is a pricey but good pair of Apple-friendly earbuds that features an incredibly secure, hook-over-the-ear design that some people may prefer over the stabilizing wings on the JBL Reflect Aero TWS pair. The marquee feature is the built-in heart-rate monitor, which can be used in conjunction with popular fitness apps like Strava, Peloton, and Nike Fitness — and Apple users can track their ticker in Apple’s health app. Overall, we liked how these sealed earbuds sounded, and the battery life is solid at around eight to 10 hours. But the IPX4 water-resistance rating is lower than that of the JBL pair. It’s sufficient for light rain and sweat but may not be enough for people who perspire profusely or train for tough mudders. You can read more about this pair’s performance in our guide to the best workout earbuds and headphones.
Why you should trust me
I hold a bachelor’s degree in both music performance and audio production from Ithaca College, and I’ve reviewed nearly 2,000 pairs of headphones for Wirecutter alone. I also spent several years in terrestrial radio before becoming a professional voice actor in Los Angeles, so I’ve been in and out of recording studios for over a decade.
- For this guide, I’ve tested more than 250 pairs of running headphones to date.
- I engaged a listening panel of audio reviewers and avid runners with a variety of head and ear shapes.
- Per Wirecutter’s standards, I don’t own stock or have any other financial interest in a company or industry that I cover or am likely to cover.
- Like all Wirecutter journalists, I review and test products with complete editorial independence. I’m never made aware of any business implications of my editorial recommendations. Read more about our editorial standards.
How we picked and tested
We interviewed dozens of runners, from casual joggers to hardcore marathon runners. And the important lesson we learned is that there is no single headphone or earbud design that will please every runner.
However, there are some important considerations that apply to all good running headphones:
- Sweat and water resistance is a must. Standard headphones aren’t built to withstand the beating that running headphones can take, so their warranties aren’t likely to cover moisture damage.
- Fit and comfort are always important, but this is especially true with running headphones. If they fall out, chafe, or pinch, you won’t want to use them.
- Ease of use is key. Good running earbuds have intuitive controls that you can use without much thought.
- Brand reliability and a good warranty are both critical. For the latter, coverage should be at least one year against sweat damage.
- Sound quality still matters. While the audio quality may not be as critical here as with a pair of earbuds used for dedicated listening, it should be good enough that it does not distract from the overall experience.
We put all of our running headphones through the same gauntlet of fit, sound, water resistance, Bluetooth connectivity, and training tests that we use for all workout headphones. You can read more about our lengthy testing process in our guide to the best workout headphones.
No matter how much testing we do, we can’t possibly account for every variety of ear shape and size (though we definitely try our best). You may have to try a few pairs of running headphones before you commit to one, so look for retailers that allow you to return or exchange. And save the packaging until you’ve had a chance to test out your new earbuds. Shake your head around, jump a few times, and give your running headphones the same sort of trial run that you’d give a new pair of sneakers.
Ill-fitting headphones are like a pebble in your shoe: tolerable for a while but distractingly painful over time. Size up your headphones with the same care you’d apply to any other piece of sporting equipment. Miles down the road, you’ll be glad you did.
What to look forward to
JLab recently introduced a new version of our budget pick for runners who want to block out noise, called the Go Sport+. The new set is similar in design, but it has a longer (claimed) battery life, adds a hear-through mode, and uses USB-C charging. We plan to test it soon.
We are also working on a new guide that focuses specifically on bone-conduction headphones and other open-ear designs. We expect it to go live this summer.
The competition
We’ve tested more than 250 pairs of workout headphones over the years. Below are some popular earbuds we’ve tested specifically for running that did not earn a spot on our list. If you don’t see a certain model you’re interested in, check out our comprehensive list of workout headphones we’ve tested.
1More Fit Open Earbuds S50: This pair has an open design, with the speakers sitting outside of your ears, but there is a small nub that rests in the ear canal to provide stability. But this pair has limited controls, minimal bass, and highs that can sound a bit harsh.
1More Open Fit SE Earbuds S31: This pair produces tinny, almost crunchy-sounding high notes, has limited controls, and uses a microphone that distorts with a digital sound when the wind blows. We also found the layout of the earbuds in the charging case to be unintuitive.
AceFast AceFit Air FA002: These earbuds sit on top of the ear canal, not in it, and they cannot handle playing bass notes. When we boosted the low end using volume controls or the set’s bass-boost preset, the earbuds vibrated against our faces, and the sound distorted.
Apple AirPods 4 and AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation: The latest versions of Apple’s AirPods are the best yet, but when it comes to running, we don’t feel they’re suited for anything more than a casual jog. The controls are hard to use in motion, and the 5 hours of battery life (4 hours if you use ANC or take calls) is around half of what’s provided by our picks. The IP54 rating does provide dust and water resistance, but the Baseus Eli Sport 1 offers the same level of water protection for a third of the price. If you’re curious about what we think of them as Apple accessories, you can read our review.
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd gen): Although the IPX4 rating of the AirPods Pro means they’re protected from some mild sweat damage, these earbuds aren’t our first choice for runners. The controls are fiddly and can be tricky to activate while you’re on the move, and people who do have a bouncy stride may find that the earbuds can slip out of place.
Beats Fit Pro: This is our runner-up workout earbud pick. The wings on this true wireless pair will keep the earbuds in place for occasional jogs, and the sealed design and active noise cancellation can block out gym noise. But the Pro pair is less water- and sweat-resistant than the JBL Reflect Aero TWS, and it lacks full controls. And the “Hey Siri” function doesn’t work consistently well when there is a lot of breeze (like when you’re running). Folks who sweat a lot or run in the rain will want to get a more durable pair.
Beyerdynamic Verio 200: Though this pair has decent sound after some EQ adjustment in the app, the highs are still a touch tinny. The microphone has a distant quality, and your caller will hear background and wind noise. Additionally, the earbud design is prone to jostling when tapped to access the controls. Overall, these are small flaws, but the price of this pair makes them more meaningful.
Bose Ultra Open Earbuds: The cuff-like design of this unsealed pair is surprisingly comfortable, especially for those who dislike the feel of standard in-ear headphones. This pair has more low-bass representation than other unsealed earbuds, but doesn’t sound as good as the cheaper Baseus Eli Sport 1. However, the microphone quality is incredibly disappointing. Even in a quiet room, voices sound reedy and hissy on phone calls. Add any background noise, and the roaring, static-like cacophony that will greet your caller is distracting (in the case of one tester, it was bad enough for their conversation partner to request a call back with a different device). If Bose could improve the microphones, we might consider recommending this pricey pair, but for $300, we expect a more well-rounded set of earbuds.
Cleer Arc 3: This open-ear, hook-over-the-ear pair fits well, is IPX7 water-resistant, and has hands-free call answer/rejection with a nod or shake of the head. These earbuds are recommendable for people who like to keep their ears uncovered when they run, but the $220 asking price is steep. The smart case has a screen that essentially performs all the functionality of the phone app and has UV sterilization inside (though we still suggest you wipe down your earbuds after use). The sound is a bit sibilant out of the box, but you can adjust the EQ settings to your liking. However, like all open-ear designs, this pair doesn’t deliver as much bass as sealed earbuds can. Also, in a quiet room, others will be able to hear what you’re listening to.
EarFun OpenJump: This under-$100 pair of open-ear, hook-over-the-ear buds is a good alternative to our budget open-ear pick, the Baseus Eli Sport 1. This pair has a similar amount of bass representation, is equally secure in fit, and has a higher IP rating (IPX7 compared to the Sport 1’s IPX4). However, the Baseus set includes an optional earbud tether, lights up for better visibility at night, and is generally $20 to $40 cheaper than the OpenJump.
Google Pixel Buds Pro: The main reason to get the Pixel Buds Pro is a desire to stay in the Google device ecosystem. Though the earbuds are IPX4-water-resistant and the case is IPX2-rated, the design may not be secure enough, especially for ears on either end of the size spectrum. If you aren’t doing high-impact workouts or don’t have issues with earbuds staying put in general, the Buds Pro earbuds are good, if somewhat pricey.
H2O Audio Ript Lite: We like that the case that comes with these earbuds has a clear digital battery indicator, but that’s where the compliments end. The ANC is ineffective, the sound is dull and coarse, and (most surprisingly for a company focused on swimming headphones) the IP rating is only IPX5.
Jabra Elite 8 Active: We recommend this pair for general workouts, but we don’t think it’s as good for running specifically. The comfortable, rugged, ergonomically designed earbuds are stabilized using Jabra’s grippy coating that gets tackier when damp. We performed a series of very dynamic movements, and the Elite 8 Active set stayed put in our ears — but that may not be the case for people with smaller ears or those who clench and unclench their jaw when running, which might lead to the earbuds working their way out. Overall, we prefer the added security of wings or hooks when running outdoors. Plus the muffled-sounding hear-through mode is adequate for brief conversations, but less ideal if you need situational awareness for safety.
Jaybird Vista 2: We like the fit, size, single-bud capabilities, and impressive moisture and dust rating of IP68 (the case is IP54-rated). When they work properly, the Vista 2 earbuds are wonderful. However, we had two separate sets fail during our testing process. Although the third pair worked great, other people continue to experience issues at a frequency that makes us reluctant to recommend these.
OpenRock X: This open-ear pair feels solidly built, with metal accents. However, the earbuds are heavy, and the hook-over-the-ear design doesn’t hold them in place as securely as we’d like. The sound quality is good in the mids and highs, and there is a surprising amount of bass representation for an open-ear design. But lower bass notes cause the earbuds to rattle, especially when you turn up the volume.
Philips Go TAA7607: If you like bone-conduction headphones and want a little extra visibility when training at dusk, this pair is pricey but good for what it is. Its performance is similar to that of the less-expensive Shokz OpenRun, but there’s a red LED strip across the cable in the back that can glow solid or flash so you’re easier to spot.
Raycon the Impact: We love the diminutive, pocketable charging case, and the tiny earbuds could be a good fit for smaller ear canals. However, the hear-through mode sounds muffled, and the noise cancellation is minimal. All of the EQ presets have sonic flaws, be it smeared bass or incredibly unbalanced frequencies. And the tiny touch controls are difficult to locate by feel when you’re on the move.
Shokz OpenDots One: This open-ear pair clips on your ears and rests over the ear canal, to lwt in some sounds. The design is comfortable and sounds quite good, with a solid amount of bass and only a slight coarseness to the higher frequencies. However, the controls are limited, and this pair lacks bonus features.
Shokz OpenRun and OpenRun Mini: These are our former bone-conduction picks. The newer Pro 2 version has more bass, a better battery life, clearer phone-call performance, and USB-C charging. However, fans of traditional bone conduction may prefer the original OpenRun’s fully waterproof IP67 design; the Pro 2’s dynamic drivers (which handle the bass) can temporarily lose their ability to transmit sound if you get water on them. Though this can be remedied by a quick shake to remove the offending droplets, people who like to run in a downpour might prefer to stick to the original design.
Soundcore AeroClip: This is one of the most comfortable ear-cuff designs we’ve tried. The optional silicone gloves add stability, and this pair feels like it won’t come loose during your run. However, the controls are limited, and we often heard a faint, whiny phantom tone in quieter music passages. The fewer instruments playing, the more it stood out. Soundcore is working on a firmware fix to address this, and we will update our thoughts if it works.
Soundcore AeroFit 2: This open-ear, hook-over-the-ear pair can be angled up or down in four different positions to adjust to the size of your ear. Although the earbuds initially feel loose, they stay secure when you’re in motion. The touch controls are customizable, and a tone sounds to indicate when your tap has been received. Unfortunately, loud volume levels and bass-heavy songs can cause the earbuds to vibrate, which tickles like crazy. We tried every EQ setting in the app, and none of them alleviated this issue. If you have sensitive ears, this won’t be a good match.
Soundcore Sport X20: We liked the fit of these earbuds, specifically the soft earhooks that retract and expand to accommodate ear height as well as width. The sound is quite good for the price, too. Sadly, the control buttons are infuriatingly small and so close to the ear that the buttons are hard to activate. The ANC is middling and effective only on very low-pitched sounds.
Soundpeats Pop Clip: This affordable pair doesn’t include any stability adapters but nonetheless feels secure in the ear. The customizable physical buttons provide a full suite of controls that you can customize in the app. If you primarily listen to podcasts or audiobooks, the Pop Clip set is fine, as these earbuds sound best when reproducing spoken words. However, the low bass notes are barely perceptible, and even the bass-boost preset doesn’t help. The highs are shushing and painfully sibilant, so while the overamplification of small details like acoustic guitar fret noises are tolerable, strings, cymbals, and high-pitched piccolo notes become harsh and fatiguing. And over calls, the microphones are muffled — this helps reduce background noise but makes you difficult to hear when you’re speaking at a normal volume.
Suunto Wing: We appreciate that this bone-conduction set includes a snap-in-place dock that charges the Wing on the go, much like the cases that come with true wireless earbuds. It’s bulky but nevertheless useful if you run out of battery life away from a power outlet. However, the bone conduction is less successful here than on our Shokz pick. Despite the Suunto app’s indoor/outdoor EQ settings, at volume levels sufficient to use outside, the Wing buzzes and vibrates, tickling your face annoyingly. And in quiet settings, people nearby can easily hear what you’re listening to—and your phone calls.
This article was edited by Adrienne Maxwell and Grant Clauser.
Best for runners who want to block out noise
These sealed earbuds are designed for runners who want to block out external noise, whether it’s the sound of a treadmill or the general din of big-city life.
Top pick: JBL Reflect Aero TWS
Top pick
The JBL Reflect Aero TWS wireless earbuds have an exceptionally high level of protection against water and sweat (with an IP68 rating), and these small, light earbuds should stay securely in place when you run, thanks to their stabilizing wings.
The sealed design and active noise cancellation reduce the sounds of traffic, the gym, or noisy workout equipment. If you need to have a quick conversation or listen for an external sound, the natural-sounding hear-through mode is a tap away. Or when you want more situational awareness, you can choose to wear only one earbud at a time.
The battery life of eight hours is good for true wireless earbuds, and the pocket-size case offers an additional 16 hours of juice.
The six-microphone array successfully reduced wind noise in our tests, and voices sounded clear for phone calls and video chats. This pair can also connect wirelessly to two devices at once.
Google and Alexa users will appreciate the hands-free, voice-activated-assistant compatibility. This pair has touch-based controls that are large and easy to use, and we found that they were less prone to misfires than other touch-based controls we’ve tried.
However, you can assign only two sets of controls: playback controls, ANC/hear-through controls, or volume controls (not all three at the same time). Alexa and Google fans may not mind this, since their preferred digital assistant is always listening for its wake word — so no tap is necessary.
Apple users can access Siri, but it involves a tap-and-hold on the touch control. (If you want hands-free “Hey Siri” control, consider the Beats Fit Pro instead.)
Out of the box, the Reflect Aero TWS earbuds sound good, with some added oomph in the bass and added energy in the frequency range where consonants sit. Many people will enjoy the sound as is, but we liked it better after doing a little EQ tinkering in the app. If anything goes wrong, JBL covers this pair with a one-year warranty.
The stabilizing wings may bother people with sensitive ears or small ear canals. Though the winged design is ideal for running because of its grip, it can be fatiguing to wear for hours on end.
You can read more about this pair in our guide to workout earbuds and headphones.
Budget pick: JLab Go Air Sport
Budget pick
If you don’t want to spend a ton of cash on running earbuds — either because you’re new to the hobby or you jog only once in a while — the durable, affordable JLab Go Air Sport earbuds are a great option. This wireless pair is sweat-resistant, with an IP55 Ingress Protection rating. (JLab recently introduced a new version of these earbuds, called the Go Sport+. The new set is similar in design, but it has a longer claimed battery life, adds a hear-through mode, and uses USB-C charging. We plan to test it soon.)
The hook-over-the-ear design keeps the earbuds securely in place. It’s especially helpful for people with hard-to-fit ears or a super-bouncy stride, and some people may find this design to be more comfortable than earbuds that use stabilizing wings (like the JBL Reflect Aero TWS discussed above).
Eight hours of listening time per charge is ample for most long runs, and the case holds an additional three full charges. You get a full suite of touch-based controls that are reasonably simple to use while you’re in motion — with a little practice.
While the sound quality can’t match that of our more expensive picks, it is still enjoyable — and pretty stellar for $30.
This sealed pair doesn’t let in any outside sounds and has no hear-through mode. It isn’t a good match for runners who want to hear their surroundings to be safe or have a quick conversation without removing their earbuds. As with any sealed earbuds, this pair will amplify footfalls and breathing sounds.
However, like the JBL Reflect Aero TWS set, this pair lets you use either earbud independently, if you prefer to keep one ear open. The large case likely won’t fit in a pocket, but it should fit in a running belt.
The microphone quality is somewhat muffled. People should be able to understand you, but they may ask you to speak up on occasion if you’re naturally soft-spoken.
This pair is the budget pick in our main guide to the best workout earbuds and headphones, so just pop over to that guide to get more details.
Best for runners who want to hear their surroundings
These headphones are designed for outdoor runners who want to be able to hear the world around them for safety, or who simply dislike the feeling of earbuds or headphones covering their ears when they run.
Top pick: Shokz OpenRun Pro 2
Top pick
The Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 headphones combine the benefits of bone-conduction technology — particularly, the ability to keep your ears completely uncovered — with standard speaker drivers that produce a more balanced sound than previous bone-conduction models we’ve tested.
Shokz’s new hybrid design handles bass more effectively. If you’ve tried bone-conduction headphones in the past and weren’t a fan, this set might change your mind. A thin, flexible headband wraps around the back of your head and hooks over your ears, positioning the speaker units just in front of your ears. While bone conduction handles the higher frequencies, Shokz assigned all the low frequencies to mini drivers that direct sound toward your ears. This reduces the cheek-tickling vibrations and increases bass intensity compared with previous bone-conduction designs.
Still, if you’re a bass fiend, this pair isn’t for you. Yes, the Pro 2 has more bass than other bone-conduction headphones, but it’s like drinking lemon La Croix versus drinking water with a squeeze of lemon juice in it. One gives you the sense that something should be there but really isn’t, while the other provides a little more favor but not the intensity of lemonade. In other words, none of these unsealed designs can compete with sealed earbuds in bass performance.
Additionally, because this pair uses physical drivers for bass, if you turn the volume up to the absolute max, you may hear some distortion on bass-forward songs. We didn’t feel the need to go up that loud, so we don’t think it will be an issue for most people.
The lightweight design is available in two sizes. Because this pair relies on contact with your skull to transmit sound waves to your inner ear, it’s important to have a secure fit. Small to medium hat sizes (7½ or smaller) may prefer the Mini size, while sizes 7¾ and up may prefer the Standard size. Both sizes are flexible enough to accommodate a range of head sizes and shapes without pain or pinching, even when wearing glasses.
The physical buttons are easy to find by feel, and they provide control for volume, track forward/reverse, voice-assistant activation, and calls.
Phone calls sounded clear in our tests, even when we were in motion.
An IP55 water- and dust-resistance rating means you can hit the trails on a rainy day with no issues. Just be sure to allow your pair to thoroughly dry before plugging it in to charge via the USB-C cable. The quick-charge function will give you about 2.5 hours of playback after 5 minutes plugged in. When fully charged, the battery should last around 12 hours, depending on the volume at which you listen and the number of calls you take.
Other pairs of Shokz headphones have higher IP ratings, so if you want a fully waterproof pair, we still like the original OpenRun and OpenRun Mini. However, those sets use a proprietary cable that can be very inconvenient if you’re low on power and don’t have your charger handy, and they have less bass response.
Shokz’s two-year warranty will have your back should anything go awry.
Budget pick: Baseus Eli Sport 1
Budget pick
The Baseus Eli Sport 1 wireless earbuds hook over your ears and position the speaker drivers across the ear, rather than in it. The design doesn’t fully block your ear canal, so you’ll be able to hear what’s happening around you.
The hooks are flexible and light and should be compatible with most pairs of glasses. However, if you dislike anything at all near your ear canal, you may prefer the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 instead.
This is the best-sounding pair of open-ear headphones we’ve tested. Although no open-ear headphone set will have as much bass presence as sealed earbuds, the Eli Sport 1 has more than others we’ve tried. Vocals and instruments like keyboards, guitar, and horns sounded authentic through these earbuds.
Where they fell short was in their ability to reproduce deep electronic beats and the resonance of low-pitched instruments like kick drums and double bass. Still, their performance was especially impressive when you consider the lower price.
We also like that this pair has the full complement of tap-based controls. But as with all tap-based controls, occasionally the experience is a bit fussy. Each earbud has a large enough surface area that it’s less susceptible to miscues than smaller earbud designs.
The battery life is about 7.5 hours per charge, with an additional 22 hours in the charging case. The Eli Sport 1 also comes with a removable rope neckband, for runners who like tethered earbuds that can be hung around the neck when not in use.
The IP rating is a somewhat low IPX4. That means the earbuds are protected against a light drizzle, but this pair isn’t the right choice for people who perspire heavily or will still go running in a downpour.
Because of the larger design necessary to house the mini speakers, the charging case is on the bigger size — about the size of a bar of soap — and it doesn’t have a way to hold the neckband. This isn’t a setup that lends itself to being tucked in the key pocket of running shorts, but both will easily slip into a running belt.
An 18-month warranty covers manufacturing defects.
Other running headphones worth considering
If you prefer an ear-cuff design: If you’re interested in an open-ear design that clips onto the side of your ear as opposed to hooking over it, the Soundcore C30i offers the best combination of design, performance, and price. The C30i has less bass response than the Baseus Eli Sport 1, but listening to music is still enjoyable. Plus, the fit is comfortable and stable, and the call quality is clear. The downsides are that the touch controls are small and hard to find, and there’s no EQ tool in the app to fine-tune the sound.
If you want a built-in heart-rate monitor: The Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 is a pricey but good pair of Apple-friendly earbuds that features an incredibly secure, hook-over-the-ear design that some people may prefer over the stabilizing wings on the JBL Reflect Aero TWS pair. The marquee feature is the built-in heart-rate monitor, which can be used in conjunction with popular fitness apps like Strava, Peloton, and Nike Fitness — and Apple users can track their ticker in Apple’s health app. Overall, we liked how these sealed earbuds sounded, and the battery life is solid at around eight to 10 hours. But the IPX4 water-resistance rating is lower than that of the JBL pair. It’s sufficient for light rain and sweat but may not be enough for people who perspire profusely or train for tough mudders. You can read more about this pair’s performance in our guide to the best workout earbuds and headphones.
Why you should trust me
I hold a bachelor’s degree in both music performance and audio production from Ithaca College, and I’ve reviewed nearly 2,000 pairs of headphones for Wirecutter alone. I also spent several years in terrestrial radio before becoming a professional voice actor in Los Angeles, so I’ve been in and out of recording studios for over a decade.
- For this guide, I’ve tested more than 250 pairs of running headphones to date.
- I engaged a listening panel of audio reviewers and avid runners with a variety of head and ear shapes.
- Per Wirecutter’s standards, I don’t own stock or have any other financial interest in a company or industry that I cover or am likely to cover.
- Like all Wirecutter journalists, I review and test products with complete editorial independence. I’m never made aware of any business implications of my editorial recommendations. Read more about our editorial standards.
How we picked and tested
We interviewed dozens of runners, from casual joggers to hardcore marathon runners. And the important lesson we learned is that there is no single headphone or earbud design that will please every runner.
However, there are some important considerations that apply to all good running headphones:
- Sweat and water resistance is a must. Standard headphones aren’t built to withstand the beating that running headphones can take, so their warranties aren’t likely to cover moisture damage.
- Fit and comfort are always important, but this is especially true with running headphones. If they fall out, chafe, or pinch, you won’t want to use them.
- Ease of use is key. Good running earbuds have intuitive controls that you can use without much thought.
- Brand reliability and a good warranty are both critical. For the latter, coverage should be at least one year against sweat damage.
- Sound quality still matters. While the audio quality may not be as critical here as with a pair of earbuds used for dedicated listening, it should be good enough that it does not distract from the overall experience.
We put all of our running headphones through the same gauntlet of fit, sound, water resistance, Bluetooth connectivity, and training tests that we use for all workout headphones. You can read more about our lengthy testing process in our guide to the best workout headphones.
No matter how much testing we do, we can’t possibly account for every variety of ear shape and size (though we definitely try our best). You may have to try a few pairs of running headphones before you commit to one, so look for retailers that allow you to return or exchange. And save the packaging until you’ve had a chance to test out your new earbuds. Shake your head around, jump a few times, and give your running headphones the same sort of trial run that you’d give a new pair of sneakers.
Ill-fitting headphones are like a pebble in your shoe: tolerable for a while but distractingly painful over time. Size up your headphones with the same care you’d apply to any other piece of sporting equipment. Miles down the road, you’ll be glad you did.
What to look forward to
JLab recently introduced a new version of our budget pick for runners who want to block out noise, called the Go Sport+. The new set is similar in design, but it has a longer (claimed) battery life, adds a hear-through mode, and uses USB-C charging. We plan to test it soon.
We are also working on a new guide that focuses specifically on bone-conduction headphones and other open-ear designs. We expect it to go live this summer.
The competition
We’ve tested more than 250 pairs of workout headphones over the years. Below are some popular earbuds we’ve tested specifically for running that did not earn a spot on our list. If you don’t see a certain model you’re interested in, check out our comprehensive list of workout headphones we’ve tested.
1More Fit Open Earbuds S50: This pair has an open design, with the speakers sitting outside of your ears, but there is a small nub that rests in the ear canal to provide stability. But this pair has limited controls, minimal bass, and highs that can sound a bit harsh.
1More Open Fit SE Earbuds S31: This pair produces tinny, almost crunchy-sounding high notes, has limited controls, and uses a microphone that distorts with a digital sound when the wind blows. We also found the layout of the earbuds in the charging case to be unintuitive.
AceFast AceFit Air FA002: These earbuds sit on top of the ear canal, not in it, and they cannot handle playing bass notes. When we boosted the low end using volume controls or the set’s bass-boost preset, the earbuds vibrated against our faces, and the sound distorted.
Apple AirPods 4 and AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation: The latest versions of Apple’s AirPods are the best yet, but when it comes to running, we don’t feel they’re suited for anything more than a casual jog. The controls are hard to use in motion, and the 5 hours of battery life (4 hours if you use ANC or take calls) is around half of what’s provided by our picks. The IP54 rating does provide dust and water resistance, but the Baseus Eli Sport 1 offers the same level of water protection for a third of the price. If you’re curious about what we think of them as Apple accessories, you can read our review.
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd gen): Although the IPX4 rating of the AirPods Pro means they’re protected from some mild sweat damage, these earbuds aren’t our first choice for runners. The controls are fiddly and can be tricky to activate while you’re on the move, and people who do have a bouncy stride may find that the earbuds can slip out of place.
Beats Fit Pro: This is our runner-up workout earbud pick. The wings on this true wireless pair will keep the earbuds in place for occasional jogs, and the sealed design and active noise cancellation can block out gym noise. But the Pro pair is less water- and sweat-resistant than the JBL Reflect Aero TWS, and it lacks full controls. And the “Hey Siri” function doesn’t work consistently well when there is a lot of breeze (like when you’re running). Folks who sweat a lot or run in the rain will want to get a more durable pair.
Beyerdynamic Verio 200: Though this pair has decent sound after some EQ adjustment in the app, the highs are still a touch tinny. The microphone has a distant quality, and your caller will hear background and wind noise. Additionally, the earbud design is prone to jostling when tapped to access the controls. Overall, these are small flaws, but the price of this pair makes them more meaningful.
Bose Ultra Open Earbuds: The cuff-like design of this unsealed pair is surprisingly comfortable, especially for those who dislike the feel of standard in-ear headphones. This pair has more low-bass representation than other unsealed earbuds, but doesn’t sound as good as the cheaper Baseus Eli Sport 1. However, the microphone quality is incredibly disappointing. Even in a quiet room, voices sound reedy and hissy on phone calls. Add any background noise, and the roaring, static-like cacophony that will greet your caller is distracting (in the case of one tester, it was bad enough for their conversation partner to request a call back with a different device). If Bose could improve the microphones, we might consider recommending this pricey pair, but for $300, we expect a more well-rounded set of earbuds.
Cleer Arc 3: This open-ear, hook-over-the-ear pair fits well, is IPX7 water-resistant, and has hands-free call answer/rejection with a nod or shake of the head. These earbuds are recommendable for people who like to keep their ears uncovered when they run, but the $220 asking price is steep. The smart case has a screen that essentially performs all the functionality of the phone app and has UV sterilization inside (though we still suggest you wipe down your earbuds after use). The sound is a bit sibilant out of the box, but you can adjust the EQ settings to your liking. However, like all open-ear designs, this pair doesn’t deliver as much bass as sealed earbuds can. Also, in a quiet room, others will be able to hear what you’re listening to.
EarFun OpenJump: This under-$100 pair of open-ear, hook-over-the-ear buds is a good alternative to our budget open-ear pick, the Baseus Eli Sport 1. This pair has a similar amount of bass representation, is equally secure in fit, and has a higher IP rating (IPX7 compared to the Sport 1’s IPX4). However, the Baseus set includes an optional earbud tether, lights up for better visibility at night, and is generally $20 to $40 cheaper than the OpenJump.
Google Pixel Buds Pro: The main reason to get the Pixel Buds Pro is a desire to stay in the Google device ecosystem. Though the earbuds are IPX4-water-resistant and the case is IPX2-rated, the design may not be secure enough, especially for ears on either end of the size spectrum. If you aren’t doing high-impact workouts or don’t have issues with earbuds staying put in general, the Buds Pro earbuds are good, if somewhat pricey.
H2O Audio Ript Lite: We like that the case that comes with these earbuds has a clear digital battery indicator, but that’s where the compliments end. The ANC is ineffective, the sound is dull and coarse, and (most surprisingly for a company focused on swimming headphones) the IP rating is only IPX5.
Jabra Elite 8 Active: We recommend this pair for general workouts, but we don’t think it’s as good for running specifically. The comfortable, rugged, ergonomically designed earbuds are stabilized using Jabra’s grippy coating that gets tackier when damp. We performed a series of very dynamic movements, and the Elite 8 Active set stayed put in our ears — but that may not be the case for people with smaller ears or those who clench and unclench their jaw when running, which might lead to the earbuds working their way out. Overall, we prefer the added security of wings or hooks when running outdoors. Plus the muffled-sounding hear-through mode is adequate for brief conversations, but less ideal if you need situational awareness for safety.
Jaybird Vista 2: We like the fit, size, single-bud capabilities, and impressive moisture and dust rating of IP68 (the case is IP54-rated). When they work properly, the Vista 2 earbuds are wonderful. However, we had two separate sets fail during our testing process. Although the third pair worked great, other people continue to experience issues at a frequency that makes us reluctant to recommend these.
OpenRock X: This open-ear pair feels solidly built, with metal accents. However, the earbuds are heavy, and the hook-over-the-ear design doesn’t hold them in place as securely as we’d like. The sound quality is good in the mids and highs, and there is a surprising amount of bass representation for an open-ear design. But lower bass notes cause the earbuds to rattle, especially when you turn up the volume.
Philips Go TAA7607: If you like bone-conduction headphones and want a little extra visibility when training at dusk, this pair is pricey but good for what it is. Its performance is similar to that of the less-expensive Shokz OpenRun, but there’s a red LED strip across the cable in the back that can glow solid or flash so you’re easier to spot.
Raycon the Impact: We love the diminutive, pocketable charging case, and the tiny earbuds could be a good fit for smaller ear canals. However, the hear-through mode sounds muffled, and the noise cancellation is minimal. All of the EQ presets have sonic flaws, be it smeared bass or incredibly unbalanced frequencies. And the tiny touch controls are difficult to locate by feel when you’re on the move.
Shokz OpenDots One: This open-ear pair clips on your ears and rests over the ear canal, to lwt in some sounds. The design is comfortable and sounds quite good, with a solid amount of bass and only a slight coarseness to the higher frequencies. However, the controls are limited, and this pair lacks bonus features.
Shokz OpenRun and OpenRun Mini: These are our former bone-conduction picks. The newer Pro 2 version has more bass, a better battery life, clearer phone-call performance, and USB-C charging. However, fans of traditional bone conduction may prefer the original OpenRun’s fully waterproof IP67 design; the Pro 2’s dynamic drivers (which handle the bass) can temporarily lose their ability to transmit sound if you get water on them. Though this can be remedied by a quick shake to remove the offending droplets, people who like to run in a downpour might prefer to stick to the original design.
Soundcore AeroClip: This is one of the most comfortable ear-cuff designs we’ve tried. The optional silicone gloves add stability, and this pair feels like it won’t come loose during your run. However, the controls are limited, and we often heard a faint, whiny phantom tone in quieter music passages. The fewer instruments playing, the more it stood out. Soundcore is working on a firmware fix to address this, and we will update our thoughts if it works.
Soundcore AeroFit 2: This open-ear, hook-over-the-ear pair can be angled up or down in four different positions to adjust to the size of your ear. Although the earbuds initially feel loose, they stay secure when you’re in motion. The touch controls are customizable, and a tone sounds to indicate when your tap has been received. Unfortunately, loud volume levels and bass-heavy songs can cause the earbuds to vibrate, which tickles like crazy. We tried every EQ setting in the app, and none of them alleviated this issue. If you have sensitive ears, this won’t be a good match.
Soundcore Sport X20: We liked the fit of these earbuds, specifically the soft earhooks that retract and expand to accommodate ear height as well as width. The sound is quite good for the price, too. Sadly, the control buttons are infuriatingly small and so close to the ear that the buttons are hard to activate. The ANC is middling and effective only on very low-pitched sounds.
Soundpeats Pop Clip: This affordable pair doesn’t include any stability adapters but nonetheless feels secure in the ear. The customizable physical buttons provide a full suite of controls that you can customize in the app. If you primarily listen to podcasts or audiobooks, the Pop Clip set is fine, as these earbuds sound best when reproducing spoken words. However, the low bass notes are barely perceptible, and even the bass-boost preset doesn’t help. The highs are shushing and painfully sibilant, so while the overamplification of small details like acoustic guitar fret noises are tolerable, strings, cymbals, and high-pitched piccolo notes become harsh and fatiguing. And over calls, the microphones are muffled — this helps reduce background noise but makes you difficult to hear when you’re speaking at a normal volume.
Suunto Wing: We appreciate that this bone-conduction set includes a snap-in-place dock that charges the Wing on the go, much like the cases that come with true wireless earbuds. It’s bulky but nevertheless useful if you run out of battery life away from a power outlet. However, the bone conduction is less successful here than on our Shokz pick. Despite the Suunto app’s indoor/outdoor EQ settings, at volume levels sufficient to use outside, the Wing buzzes and vibrates, tickling your face annoyingly. And in quiet settings, people nearby can easily hear what you’re listening to—and your phone calls.
This article was edited by Adrienne Maxwell and Grant Clauser.
