Looking for the best running headphones? Discover top picks that blend comfort, sound quality, and safety to level up every run.

I always run with headphones on, whether I’m listening podcasts or music. Audio content helps me keep a steady pace, even if it doesn’t necessarily make me run faster. Last year, I tried running without headphones for a bit. My old ones were fine for walks and lighter workouts, but they didn’t stay in place during runs. That’s why I started to start researching the best running headphones.

Since I live in the city, I usually run through crowded sidewalks. It’s way easier to stay focused when I’m immersed in my own tunes rather than overhearing random conversations every few steps. That’s where noise-cancelling headphones come in. If you’re concerned about safety, though, you might opt for open-ear designs to stay aware of your surroundings. Additionally, some headphones let in a bit of environmental sound while still providing a quality listening experience.

Whether you’re running through city streets or hitting the treadmill at the gym, having the right headphones can enhance your run. And if you’re just starting out, there are some great budget-friendly options that still deliver quality performance. Let’s dive into top picks that cater to all kinds of runners and preferences.

What factors I prioritized for the best running headphones

Runners have their own styles—some prefer the gym treadmill, while others love the thrill of running on outdoor terrain. Whichever camp you belong to, you should look for wireless headphones that fit your ears comfortably and securely. I recommend aiming for at least an IPX4 rating to handle sweat and rain. Another consideration is user-friendliness. They should come with all the necessary buttons to keep your phone out of sight while running.

For treadmill enthusiasts, noise-canceling headphones are a great choice to block out distractions. If you’re more of an outdoor runner, consider open designs that let you hear traffic and other sounds around you. If you’re after headphones that let in some ambient noise, I’ve got options for you too. And if you’re just starting out and not ready to splurge on gear, don’t worry; you’ll find the best budget running headphones here. Let’s start with recommendations for treadmill runners.

Noise-cancelling headphones for treadmill runners

If you’ve ever struggled to focus on your workout because of someone’s loud grunts or chatter, you’ll appreciate the clarity and immersion that noise-canceling headphones deliver. They also help block out distracting treadmill hums, which can make a noticeable difference in your workout experience. Below are some treadmill headphones with all the features you need for a great exercise session.

1. Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 advanced ANC earbuds

The second-generation Elite 10 earbuds are Jabra’s last consumer buds, but they’ve still got plenty to offer. These comfortable and capable earbuds now feature even better noise canceling. With Jabra’s advanced ANC, you can zone out at the gym more effectively—up to twice as strong as the first generation.

There’s also a cool new feature: the charging case can act as a wireless transmitter from any 3.5mm or USB-C audio output. With the LE Audio Smart Case, you can connect it to treadmills, TVs, or other devices. Just hit the pairing button on the case, and you can stream audio straight to your earbuds.

The Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 earbuds stand out from the competition with their strong weather resistance. Thanks to their IP57 rating, they can withstand dust, and you can rinse them off or even submerge them after a workout or run.

At $279.99, think of these as an investment in making your runs more enjoyable and effective.

2. Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 4 earbuds

Looking for earbuds that come with forward-looking features to stay relevant for years? The Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4’s adaptive noise cancellation adjusts automatically to your surroundings. It’s great for the gym—keeps you aware of someone trying to chat, but lets your music take over when things are quiet. They are IP54-certified and splash-resistant, making them a solid choice for outdoor running, too.

The Momentum True Wireless 4 earbuds deliver fantastic sound no matter what device you pair them with. The tuning and drivers are arguably more important than having a bunch of codecs, and these are a great example of that. At $299.95, they’re among the best-sounding wireless earbuds available.

Open-ear headphones for outdoor runners

Did you know that headphones are among the top distractions for pedestrians? Luckily, with open-ear headphones, you’ll stay aware of your surroundings and be ready to react to anything that comes up. Whether you’re running through a busy city or along a quiet path, you can enjoy your music while staying connected to the world around you.

3. OpenRock X open-ear air conduction sport earbuds

The OpenRock X uses Air Conduction, with earbuds sitting above your ear but still channeling sound directly into it. Feel every beat with the BassDirect acoustic cavity, which delivers powerful bass and keeps sound in while blocking outside noise. Thanks to beamforming tech and 4 high-quality mics, AI-powered noise cancellation ensures your calls are crystal clear, even on windy days.

Plus, the IPX5 rating means these headphones can handle heavy rain and water jets, making them excellent for outdoor activities where they’ll encounter a lot of moisture, though not full submersion. Priced at $169.99, the OpenRock X are ideal for workouts and clear calls.

4. beyerdynamic VERIO 200 ergonomic open-ear TWS earphones

To kick off your training, it’s crucial to feel comfy in your shoes and, you guessed it right, the earphones you’re wearing. Say goodbye to ear canal pressure with the beyerdynamic VERIO 200’s compact, non-slip, and ultra-light design. The silicone strap and memory wire make them super comfortable to wear. Whether you’re working from home, chilling out, or hitting the gym, the Verio 200 has got you covered.

With strong bass and solid stereo sound, these earphones offer a roomy audio experience and avoid the problems that usually come with open-ear designs. Grab the beyerdynamic VERIO 200 for $219.99 today.

5. Shokz OpenFit Air true wireless Bluetooth headphones

We haven’t gotten to the budget-friendly headphones yet, but the Shokz OpenFit Air headphones are definitely worth checking out. They let you stay aware of your surroundings while still delivering good sound quality, making them great for workouts or daily use.

Also, they’re much more affordable compared to other open headphones for running. With an IP54 rating, you don’t have to worry about dust or water sprays—they’ve got you covered from all angles.

The Shokz OpenFit Air headphones offer around 6 hours of playtime on a single charge, which is pretty typical for the $119.95 price tag. Additionally, with the case, you get an extra 22 hours of battery life, so you’ll be set for plenty of extended listening sessions.

6. Suunto Sonic bone conduction headphones for sports

The Suunto Sonic headphones are definitely a bit different from what you might be used to. They skip the usual soft ear tips and charging case you’d find with most headphones. Instead, they use bone-conduction technology, which lets you listen to your music and podcasts while still hearing everything going on around you.

What are bone-conduction headphones? Unlike regular headphones, they don’t cover your ears. Instead, these headphones send sound through vibrations in your cheekbones straight to your inner ear. So, runners can enjoy their favorite tracks and still stay aware of their surroundings.

The Sonic are sweatproof and water-resistant with an IP55 rating, so they’ll handle intense workouts and sudden rain without any issues. What’s more, they offer up to 10 hours of battery life, letting you enjoy your music all day without needing to recharge.

The headphones feature a multi-function button on the left side and volume controls on the right, so you can effortlessly manage your music and calls while you’re out on a run. Grab a pair of the Suunto Sonics for just $149!

Headphones that allow some environmental sound in

Do you want to hear some of the sounds around you so you stay aware? It’s super handy when you’re out jogging and need to hear passing cars. That way, you can stay safe and avoid any potential hazards. Read on to discover an option that perfectly balances sound quality and safety.

7. Skullcandy Push ANC Active

The Push ANC Active earbuds feature Adjustable Active Noise Cancellation and Stay-Aware Mode. When you want to focus on your music without distractions, the Active Noise Cancellation takes care of that. Conversely, the Adjustable Stay-Aware Mode lets you control how much approaching traffic and other environmental sounds noise you let in. Simply personalize your Custom Button Functions to easily assign controls for turning the feature ON/OFF. I also find it essential that headphones are easy to use and equipped with all necessary buttons, so my phone can stay put away while I’m on the treadmill.

With an IP67 rating, the Push ANC Active is protected from sweat and rain and can be submerged between 15 centimeters and 1 meter deep. In other departments, 7 hours of battery life is above average.

At $99.99, the Skullcandy Push ANC Active are reasonably priced, well-rounded earbuds.

Best affordable headphones for running

Runners usually fit into 3 groups based on their commitment: super dedicated, moderately committed, and just a bit interested. If you’re in the last group and unsure about investing in gear, I’ve got options for you.

8. Maxell OWS Pro

The Maxell OWS Pro feature an open-ear design that sit lightly and securely on your outer ear. They let you stay aware of your surroundings while enjoying high-quality sound. The Maxell OWS Pro Earhooks create a personal concert experience with clear, powerful highs and smooth, mellow lows.

With up to 6 hours of battery life, they are a solid option for the price of $39.99.

9. 1MORE FIT SE Open Earbuds S30

If you’re looking for headphones on sale, the 1More SE Fit Open Earbuds S30 are a budget-friendly pick. They’re perfect for workouts and cost less than the 1More S50 and many other similar earbuds. The IPX5 rating offers increased protection against sweat and dirt.

For call quality, an AI algorithm and 4 microphones ensure clearer conversations. Plus, the DBB enhancement algorithm provides powerful bass. Get your pair of the 1More SE Fit Open Earbuds S30 for $42.99, down from $69.99. If you want a deep dive, my teammates have written an in-depth review of these earbuds.

Parting thoughts

So, there you have it—whether you’re pounding the treadmill at the gym or exploring the great outdoors, there’s a perfect pair of running headphones out there for you. Prioritize comfort, durability, and the right features to improve your running experience. Happy running, and enjoy the tunes!

P.S. Don’t forget to check out Gadget Flow’s Sports Accessories catalog for other awesome running headphones on the market.