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10 Best Running Headphones 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Beats Studio Buds - True Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds - Compatible with Apple & Android, Built-in Microphone, IPX4 Rating, Sweat Resistant Earphones, Class 1 Bluetooth Headphones - Black

The Beats Studio Buds are a solid choice for running headphones, offering several strengths and a few notable weaknesses. One of the biggest strengths is their sound quality, thanks to a custom acoustic platform that delivers powerful and balanced audio. Additionally, the earbuds feature Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) and a Transparency mode, allowing you to control how much outside noise you hear, which can be useful when running in different environments.

Comfort is another plus, as they come with three sizes of soft ear tips to ensure a stable and comfortable fit, which is crucial during physical activities. The IPX4 rating means the earbuds are sweat and water-resistant, making them suitable for runs in various weather conditions or intense workouts. Battery life is decent, offering up to 8 hours of listening time on a single charge and up to 24 hours with the included charging case. The Fast Fuel feature is handy, giving you an hour of playback with just a 5-minute charge.

Connectivity is reliable with Class 1 Bluetooth, providing an extended range and fewer dropouts, which is beneficial for maintaining connection during runs. The built-in microphone and controls are convenient for making calls and controlling your music without needing to pull out your phone. However, there are some drawbacks. The ANC, while useful, may not be as effective as that found in higher-end models. Additionally, some users might find the lack of customizable sound profiles a limitation. Finally, the earbuds may not fit all ear shapes perfectly, despite the different ear tip sizes. In summary, the Beats Studio Buds offer a good mix of sound quality, comfort, and practical features, making them a worthwhile option for runners, though they come with a few minor limitations.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Fit and Comfort
The earbuds are very comfortable with customizable ear tips that ensure a secure, comfortable fit that stays put.
Sound Quality
The sound quality is phenomenal, delivering deep, punchy bass and crisp highs that make music, podcasts, and calls sound incredible.
Battery Life
Battery life is solid, lasting all day, and the Fast Fuel feature is a handy addition.
Noise Cancellation
Active noise cancellation works impressively well, blocking out distractions while still offering a transparency mode when needed.
Built-in Microphone and Controls
These earbuds have actual physical buttons, providing a responsive and tactile control experience.
#2

Beats Studio Pro - Wireless Bluetooth Noise Cancelling Headphones - Personalized Spatial Audio, USB-C Lossless Audio, Apple & Android Compatibility, Up to 40 Hours Battery Life - Black

The Beats Studio Pro headphones are a strong choice for those seeking high-quality sound and features suited for a variety of listening situations, including workouts. Their over-ear design provides a comfortable fit, which is essential for longer sessions. The sound quality stands out with Beats' custom acoustic platform delivering immersive audio, and the ability to switch between active noise cancellation and transparency mode allows you to adjust to your environment, which is particularly useful if you're running outdoors.

Battery life is impressive, offering up to 40 hours of playback, and the fast charging feature is a great plus for users on the go. The headphones are also designed to work seamlessly with both Apple and Android devices, making them versatile for different users.

While they excel in many areas, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The over-ear design, while generally comfortable, might be too bulky for some users, especially during high-intensity workouts. Additionally, while they provide a good level of sweat and water resistance, they're not fully waterproof, which may be a concern for those running in heavy rain or very humid conditions.

One more thing to think about is the price point; they tend to be on the higher end compared to other running headphones, which may not be ideal for everyone, especially those looking for a budget option. The Beats Studio Pro headphones are well-suited for fitness enthusiasts who value sound quality and comfort but may not be the best fit for everyone based on their size and price.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Fit and Comfort
Comfortable to wear for extended periods with soft ear cushions and a snug fit that isn't too tight.
Sound Quality
The sound quality is excellent, delivering crisp highs, deep bass, and an overall immersive experience.
Battery Life
Battery life is a huge plus, lasting hours on a single charge, reducing the need for constant charging.
Noise Cancellation
Noise cancellation is impressive, effectively blocking out background noise for better focus.
#3

SHOKZ New OpenFit 2 Open-Ear Headphones, True Wireless Bluetooth Earphones with Microphone, Earhook Earbuds with 48 Hours of Playtime, Fast Charging, IP55 Water-Resistant, with Carrying Bag, Black

The SHOKZ New OpenFit 2 Open-Ear Headphones offer a unique experience with their open-ear design, making them ideal for runners who need to stay aware of their surroundings. Fit and comfort stand out with lightweight earhooks and a personalized fit, ensuring comfort during long runs. The IP55 rating provides good water and sweat resistance, making them suitable for various weather conditions and intense workouts.

Sound quality is enhanced with DualBoost composite drivers and OpenBass 2.0, delivering clear mids and highs along with rich bass. Despite the open-ear form factor, the DirectPitch 2.0 technology helps maintain a private listening experience. Battery life is impressive, offering up to 11 hours on a single charge and up to 48 hours with the charging case, which is beneficial for long training sessions. A quick 10-minute charge provides an extra 2 hours of playback, which is very convenient.

Though these headphones lack active noise cancellation, the dual noise-canceling microphones ensure clear phone calls. The multifunction buttons and the Shokz App allow easy control over various functions and customization. However, the absence of noise cancellation might be a drawback for those who prefer a more immersive listening experience. These headphones are best suited for runners and outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize awareness of their environment and comfort over noise isolation.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Fit and Comfort
The fit is amazing and stays in place even during intense activities.
Sound Quality
Sound quality is incredible with rich and clear audio, even at high volumes.
Battery Life
Battery life is impressive, offering up to 48 hours without needing special conditions.
Water and Sweat Resistance
Water resistance holds up well in light rain, making them suitable for various weather conditions.
Built-in Microphone and Controls
Call quality is excellent, with clear audio even in windy conditions.

Buying Guide for the Best Running Headphones

Choosing the right running headphones can significantly enhance your workout experience. The right pair will stay secure, provide good sound quality, and be comfortable for long periods. When selecting running headphones, consider factors such as fit, sound quality, battery life, water resistance, and connectivity. Understanding these key specifications will help you make an informed decision that best suits your needs.
Fit and ComfortFit and comfort are crucial for running headphones because they need to stay in place during your workout and not cause discomfort over time. There are different styles, such as in-ear, on-ear, and over-ear. In-ear headphones are popular for running because they are lightweight and less likely to fall out. Look for options with different ear tip sizes or ear hooks to ensure a secure fit. If you plan on running for long periods, prioritize comfort to avoid irritation.
Sound QualitySound quality is important for an enjoyable listening experience. Good sound quality can keep you motivated and make your runs more enjoyable. Look for headphones with a balanced sound profile, where bass, mids, and highs are clear and distinct. Some runners prefer headphones with enhanced bass to keep the energy up. If you run in busy areas, consider headphones with ambient sound modes that allow you to hear your surroundings for safety.
Battery LifeBattery life determines how long you can use your headphones before needing to recharge them. This is especially important for wireless headphones. Short battery life can be frustrating if you have to recharge frequently. For casual runners, a battery life of 4-6 hours may be sufficient. However, if you run long distances or use your headphones throughout the day, look for options with at least 8-12 hours of battery life. Some models also offer quick charging features for added convenience.
Water and Sweat ResistanceWater and sweat resistance are essential for running headphones, as they will be exposed to sweat and possibly rain. Look for headphones with an IPX rating, which indicates their level of water resistance. An IPX4 rating means they are sweat-resistant, while IPX7 means they can be submerged in water up to a certain depth. If you run in all weather conditions or sweat heavily, opt for higher water resistance to ensure durability.
ConnectivityConnectivity refers to how your headphones connect to your device. Most modern running headphones are wireless and use Bluetooth technology. Bluetooth 5.0 or higher offers a more stable connection and better range. Some headphones also support multipoint connectivity, allowing you to connect to multiple devices simultaneously. If you prefer not to deal with wires, wireless headphones are the way to go. However, if you prioritize sound quality and don't mind a cable, wired options are also available.
Controls and FeaturesControls and features can enhance the usability of your running headphones. Look for headphones with easy-to-use controls for adjusting volume, skipping tracks, and taking calls without needing to reach for your device. Some models offer voice assistant integration, allowing you to use voice commands. Additionally, features like noise cancellation can be beneficial if you want to block out external noise, though it may not be ideal if you need to stay aware of your surroundings.

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