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10 Best Running Headphones 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

SHOKZ New OpenRun Pro 2 - Open-Ear, Bone Conduction Sport Headphones - with Reflective Strip - Sweat Resistant, Workout Headphones - Secure, Wireless, Comfortable Fit-Deep Bass and Smart Mic App

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,209
Fit and Comfort
Sound Quality
Battery Life

Most important from
3739 reviews

Fit and Comfort
Comfortable for long periods, but the back strap can be a bit bulky, especially for back sleepers.
Sound Quality
The sound quality is clear, even for those with minor hearing loss, and the bass boost option enhances the experience.
Battery Life
The battery life is impressive, lasting longer than 12-hour shifts without discomfort.
Connectivity
Pairing is simple, and the controls are straightforward, making it easy to use even during intense activities.
Controls and Features
These headphones are perfect for loud work environments, providing clear sound and calls while keeping you aware of your surroundings.

The SHOKZ New OpenRun Pro 2 headphones are designed with runners and athletes in mind, offering a secure and comfortable fit thanks to their ergonomic design and Ni-Ti alloy memory wire. The open-ear design keeps you aware of your surroundings, enhancing safety during outdoor activities. Sound quality is a highlight, with dual drivers delivering clear highs and deep bass, and customizable EQ modes available through the Shokz App to tailor your audio experience.

Battery life is impressive, providing up to 12 hours of playback, which is ample for extended workouts and runs. Additionally, these headphones are sweat and water-resistant, making them suitable for intense exercises and various weather conditions. Connectivity is solid, with Bluetooth 5.3 ensuring a stable wireless connection within a 33-foot range.

The controls are easy to use with buttons for volume and playback, and the built-in microphones with AI noise reduction ensure clear calls even in windy environments. However, they lack active noise cancellation, which might be a drawback in very noisy surroundings. The open-ear design might not be suitable for those who prefer complete immersion in their music. Despite these minor downsides, the SHOKZ New OpenRun Pro 2 headphones are an excellent choice for runners and fitness enthusiasts looking for a reliable, high-quality audio companion.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,209
Fit and Comfort
Sound Quality
Battery Life

Most important from
3739 reviews

Fit and Comfort
Comfortable for long periods, but the back strap can be a bit bulky, especially for back sleepers.
Sound Quality
The sound quality is clear, even for those with minor hearing loss, and the bass boost option enhances the experience.
Battery Life
The battery life is impressive, lasting longer than 12-hour shifts without discomfort.
Connectivity
Pairing is simple, and the controls are straightforward, making it easy to use even during intense activities.
Controls and Features
These headphones are perfect for loud work environments, providing clear sound and calls while keeping you aware of your surroundings.
#2

Bose QuietComfort Bluetooth Earbuds, True Wireless Earbuds with Active Noise Cancellation and Mic, Deep Bass, IPX4 Rating, Up to 8.5 Hours of Playtime, Black

Rating
9.8
Fit and Comfort
Sound Quality
Battery Life

Most important from
3486 reviews

Fit and Comfort
The earbuds are compact and lightweight, making them barely noticeable when worn.
Sound Quality
The sound quality is incredible, delivering rich and expansive music that almost rivals over-ear headphones.
Battery Life
The battery life is impressive, lasting between 6-8 hours of continuous music playback.
Noise Cancellation
The noise cancellation is highly effective, blocking out distractions and immersing you in your music.
Built-in Microphone and Controls
The touch controls on the earbuds are intuitive and easy to use, allowing for seamless control of your music and calls.

The Bose QuietComfort Bluetooth Earbuds offer a premium experience with several strengths and a few areas to consider. These earbuds feature active noise cancellation, making them ideal for blocking out distractions during runs or workouts. The sound quality is excellent, delivering deep bass and rich audio to enhance your listening experience.

With an IPX4 rating, they are resistant to water and sweat, which is crucial for active users. The fit is customizable with multiple eartip and stability band sizes, ensuring comfort and security during movement. The battery life of up to 8.5 hours is impressive, and a quick 20-minute charge can extend playtime by 2 hours, which is handy for those on the go.

Additionally, Bluetooth 5.3 technology allows for a stable connection and the ability to connect to multiple devices simultaneously, adding convenience. The built-in microphone and touch controls provide easy access to manage calls and music without hassle. However, the earbuds might be on the heavier side for some users, weighing 70 grams. The IPX4 rating, while adequate for sweat, may not provide enough protection for more intense water exposure. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds are a solid choice for runners and fitness enthusiasts looking for high-quality sound and effective noise cancellation.

Rating
9.8
Fit and Comfort
Sound Quality
Battery Life

Most important from
3486 reviews

Fit and Comfort
The earbuds are compact and lightweight, making them barely noticeable when worn.
Sound Quality
The sound quality is incredible, delivering rich and expansive music that almost rivals over-ear headphones.
Battery Life
The battery life is impressive, lasting between 6-8 hours of continuous music playback.
Noise Cancellation
The noise cancellation is highly effective, blocking out distractions and immersing you in your music.
Built-in Microphone and Controls
The touch controls on the earbuds are intuitive and easy to use, allowing for seamless control of your music and calls.
#3

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

Rating
9.6
Fit and Comfort
Sound Quality
Battery Life

Most important from
22754 reviews

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.

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.

Rating
9.6
Fit and Comfort
Sound Quality
Battery Life

Most important from
22754 reviews

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.

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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