The 11 Best Workout Headphones for Every Type of Exercise and Budget

Apple’s now-ubiquitous AirPods are both Herbert’s and Hanson’s top pick. “These work so much better [than others], especially with movement,” Herbert says. Hanson, meanwhile, calls these options the only ones she’s found with no “significant drawbacks.” (We’ve also tested them at the gym and can confirm that they’re more sweat-resistant than advertised.)

These wireless headphones have bleutooth capabilities and are so affordable. With 10 hours of battery life, a waterproof make, and a flexible ear-hook design, it’s no wonder these have over 900 reviews and nearly five stars on Amazon. “I work out every morning…HIIT workouts and runs (3-5 miles) and they have always stayed in my ears!” writes one customer. “They came with different size ear pads for the earbud. They stay in your ear doing burpees & long runs for a fraction of the price of name brands.”

Jaybird’s Vista earbuds offer just about everything you’d want in a pair of Bluetooth workout headphones, including hardy construction, a design that keeps the buds firmly in your ears, and a great range of sound. Trainer Adele Jackson-Gibson also recently named them our favorite headphones in Prevention’s 2021 Fitness Awards—they really are the best of the best.

Cardio junkies will get a ton out of Jabra’s time-honored earbuds, which boast active noise-cancellation, deep bass, and a slim profile that’s tough to accidentally knock out of your ears. And don’t worry about intense workouts: “I work out on cardio equipment and weights but I am not a runner. These stay in my ear and even when I’m really sweaty they don’t slip out. These are the best I have found yet!” writes one satisfied customer.

With an impressive battery, adjustable sound quality, and easy integration with Apple products, Powerbeats are a great pick for just about anyone. Runners, especially, love these things, which stay in place with handy ear hooks and a connecting wire. Amazon shoppers have also awarded them an impressive 4.6-star average.

AfterShokz’s signature headphones don’t contain speakers at all—they use bone conduction, which sends mini-vibrations through your cheekbones, to transmit your music. (It sounds weird, but that’s also how we hear our own voices.) Because they don’t block your ears at all, you’ll also be able to hear everything around you with zero impediments, making them ideal for outdoor cyclists and runners.

Bose’s ultra-long-lasting headphones aren’t technically waterproof, but that hasn’t stopped machine-lovers from taking them to the gym. With 15 hours of battery life and amazing sound quality, people love these for a reason. “I love that they are wireless,” one reviewer writes. “Sound is perfect, easy pairing with my phone and iPad. They’re very comfortable, and awesome to use. A bit pricey but definitely worth every penny.”

Bose’s Sport earbuds can pick up a two-hour life from just 15 minutes of charging, a feature Hanson recommends for lifters and gym-goers. If your headphones die, it’s not the end of the world—just pop them in the case and take a breather. Reviewers also love their fit and audio quality, making them a good overall pick.

If you’re not working with a smartphone or Bluetooth-enabled MP3 player, these wired earbuds are the best way to enjoy your music. Detachable wings keep the switchable buds in your ears, while an attached mic and no battery keep the experience simple. One reviewer even machine washed their pair—and they came out as good as new. (But, you know, try not to do that).

If you already own an iPhone and want to make the most of your workout headphones, AirPods Pro should be your first choice. Their ear-friendly pods, impressive noise-canceling, ultra-quick charging, and wind-filtering mics make them ideal for athletes of any stripe. And because they’re an Apple product, they integrate seamlessly with your iPhone’s tech—no headaches necessary.

Endurance athletes, you’re in luck: Galaxy Buds+ hold an 11-hour charge out of the case, plenty of time to last through even the most strenuous workout. But it’s also good news for everyone else, since the long-lasting buds are also ideal for getting through an entire workday plus a workout without stopping the music. And with over 83,000 reviews and nearly five stars on Amazon, customers love it, too. “I’ve been using these for almost a year now and I still love them. Battery lasts for hours and I wear them to the gym all the time!” writes one satisfied customer.