10 Best Over Ear Headphones For Gym 2025 in the United States

The Bose QuietComfort Bluetooth Headphones stand out for their exceptional comfort, making them great for long wear during workouts thanks to soft ear cushions and a padded headband that stays secure without feeling tight. Their build quality is solid but made of plastic, which may not be as rugged as some sport-focused models. Sound quality is excellent, offering deep bass and clear highs with customizable equalizer settings, ideal for motivating gym sessions. Active noise cancellation effectively blocks out distractions in busy environments, while an awareness mode helps you stay alert to surroundings—a useful feature when exercising in public spaces.

Wireless connectivity uses Bluetooth 5.1 with multipoint support, so you can easily switch between devices without hassle. Battery life impresses with up to 24 hours of playtime, which is more than enough for daily gym use. Controls are touch-based and intuitive, though the headphones aren't water or sweat-resistant, which is a drawback for intense workouts involving heavy perspiration. They also come with a wired option for use when the battery runs low. These headphones combine comfort and premium sound with strong noise cancellation, but they may require extra care during sweaty gym sessions due to their lack of water resistance.

The Beats Studio Pro headphones offer a strong set of features that appeal to gym-goers seeking high-quality sound and reliable wireless performance. They use Beats' custom acoustic platform to deliver rich, immersive audio, enhanced by personalized spatial audio with dynamic head tracking, making music feel lively during workouts. Active noise cancelling (ANC) helps block out distractions, while the transparency mode allows users to stay aware of their surroundings, an important safety feature for gym use.

Battery life is impressive, providing up to 40 hours on a single charge, with a quick 10-minute charge adding 4 more hours, minimizing the need for frequent charging even with daily workouts. The wireless Bluetooth 5.3 connection offers strong range and fewer dropouts, ensuring consistent music connectivity as you move. On-ear controls are user-friendly and allow management of calls, music, and voice assistants without needing to reach for your device.

Designed with comfort in mind, the headphones feature an over-ear fit and faux leather materials, which feel secure but may become warm during intense exercise. They come with a fabric carrying case and a foldable design for durability; however, the faux leather and lack of water resistance mean they may not withstand heavy sweat or rain exposure well. If you prioritize sound quality, battery life, and wireless convenience with effective noise control, these headphones are a solid choice, though they may be less comfortable for very intense workouts or outdoor use in wet conditions.

The Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones excel with top-tier noise cancellation and superb sound quality, thanks to advanced processors and collaboration with audio engineers. Their active noise cancellation is powerful, helping you focus on music even in noisy environments, which could be helpful in busy gyms. The over-ear design and plush synthetic leather padding offer a comfortable fit for extended wear.

Because they are built primarily for noise isolation and audio quality rather than intense physical activity, they might feel a bit bulky or less secure during vigorous workouts compared to sport-specific headphones. The foldable design and sturdy build make them durable and easy to carry. Wireless connectivity via Bluetooth is strong, and battery life is impressive, providing up to 30 hours of playtime—a big plus for long gym sessions or travel. Controls are touch-based and intuitive, allowing easy adjustments without interrupting your workout.

Noise isolation through adaptive features works well, but the headphones' size and weight might cause some discomfort or slipping with heavy movement. The WH-1000XM6 suits users who prioritize high-quality sound and premium noise cancellation during moderate gym use or commuting. For those needing a lightweight, sweat-proof model specifically for intense exercise, there may be better options.