You might be thinking, “Why do I need headphones for cycling? Shouldn’t I be focused on the road?” While safety should always be a top priority, there’s no harm in enhancing your cycling experience while jamming out.
Whether you enjoy listening to music to keep you motivated or prefer podcasts to entertain you during long rides, having the right headphones can make all the difference.
So, let’s explore the top 10 headphones for cycling that not only provide exceptional sound but also prioritize comfort and safety. We will cover bone-conducting, in-ear, and over-ear headphones from different brands to cater to all types of cyclists.
Let’s get started!
Best Headphones for Cycling: Bone Conducting
SHOKZ OpenRun Pro
- Open-Ear Comfort - OpenRun Pro features our best fit yet. Avoid the discomfort of in-ear headphones with our bud-free design. These headphones stay put during any workout. Includes Shokz headband.
- Safety & Connection - OpenRun Pro ensures you enjoy your favorite audio with awareness of your environment for improved connection and safety compared to traditional earbuds or over-ear headphones.
- Premium Sound Quality - Experience premium audio delivered through your cheekbone with our 9th bone conduction technology. Engineered with Shokz TurboPitch technology, OpenRun Pro headset features our best listening experience with clear sound, powerful volume, and a rich bass.
- Secure Fit - A lightweight, wraparound titanium frame keeps your wireless headphones stable and in place during intense training.
- 10 Hours of Music & Calls - Enjoy ten continuous hours of music, calls and podcasts with our Bluetooth headphones. OpenRun Pro also features a 5-minute quick charge for up to 1.5 hours of battery life.
With its open-ear comfort design and bone conduction technology, the SHOKZ OpenRun headphones are the ideal choice for cyclists seeking a secure fit and awareness of their surroundings. These sweat-resistant wireless earphones are specifically designed for workouts and running, making them perfect for cycling enthusiasts. By utilizing 9th bone conduction technology, these headphones deliver premium sound quality through the cheekbone, while the Shokz TurboPitch technology ensures clear sound, powerful volume, and rich bass.
The lightweight, wraparound titanium frame keeps the headphones stable and in place during intense training sessions. Additionally, with 10 hours of battery life and a 5-minute quick charge option, you can enjoy uninterrupted music, calls, and podcasts throughout your ride. The positive customer reviews praising the comfort, battery life, and sound quality further validate the effectiveness and satisfaction of these headphones for cycling.
Best For: Cyclists seeking a secure fit and awareness of their surroundings during their rides.
Pros:
- Open-ear comfort design for a comfortable and stable fit.
- Utilizes bone conduction technology for premium sound quality.
- Sweat-resistant and suitable for intense training sessions.
Cons:
- Limited battery life compared to some other models.
SHOKZ OpenRun
For cyclists looking for headphones that provide open-ear comfort and safety, the SHOKZ OpenRun headphones are the ideal choice. With their bone conduction technology, these headphones allow you to enjoy your ride while staying aware of your surroundings. The IP67 waterproof rating ensures that they can withstand rain and sweat during intense workouts. You can enjoy up to 8 hours of music and calls thanks to the impressive battery life.
The sound quality is outstanding, delivering clear and crisp audio. The Bluetooth connectivity is seamless, allowing you to connect to your devices easily. Users have praised the comfort and lightweight design, making them perfect for long rides.
Overall, the SHOKZ OpenRun headphones offer a great combination of comfort, safety, and superior sound quality for cyclists.
Best For:
Cyclists looking for open-ear comfort and safety during their rides.
Pros:
- Open-ear design allows for awareness of surroundings
- Impressive battery life of 8 hours for music and calls
- Seamless Bluetooth connectivity
Cons:
- Issues with headset malfunctioning reported by some customers
SHOKZ OpenMove
- Open-Ear Headphones - Experience unmatched comfort with our lightweight, secure fit, featuring an earbud-free design for all-day listening without ear fatigue.(Rebranded version of AfterShokz OpenMove)
- Safety & Connection - Stay motivated with your favorite audio without compromising on safety. Unlike over-ear and in-ear headphones, OpenMove keeps you connected and aware of your surroundings.
- Secure Fit - From light jogs to everyday commutes, a wraparound titanium frame keeps your bone conduction headphones in place during a range of low impact activities.
- 6 Hours of Music & Calls - Enjoy six continuous hours of music, calls, and podcasts on a single charge with our bluetooth headphones.
- High Sound Quality- Enjoy balanced audio, optimal volume and rich bass delivered through your cheekbone, anytime, anywhere with this premium OpenMove headset.
For cyclists seeking a budget-friendly option, the SHOKZ OpenMove headphones provide a comfortable fit without compromising awareness of your surroundings. These bone-conduction headphones offer an earbud-free design, allowing you to listen to your favorite podcasts or audiobooks while staying connected to your environment.
With a wraparound titanium frame, they ensure a secure fit during low-impact activities such as cycling. The headphones boast a battery life of 6 hours on a single charge, providing you with ample listening time during your rides. The sound quality is impressive, offering balanced audio and rich bass. Additionally, the OpenMove headphones are sweatproof and easy to clean, making them ideal for intense workouts.
Overall, these headphones are a solid entry-level option for cyclists looking for a comfortable and safe audio experience on the road.
Best For: Cyclists seeking a secure and lightweight option for listening to podcasts or audiobooks while staying aware of their surroundings.
Pros:
- Volume capacity to overcome noisy environments
- Lightweight and comfortable to wear
- Secure fit, stays in place during movement
Cons:
- Limited Bluetooth range
Best Headphones for Cycling: In-Ear
Sony LinkBuds S
- SMART SOUND- Smart features and settings learn from your behavior and automatically adjust sound settings to provide the right sound for the moment.Specific uses for product : Audio.Communication system : Bluetooth Specification version 5.
- NEVER OFF- Automatically switches between superlative noise canceling or optimized ambient sound for listening without distractions. Sony's best transparent ambient sound in truly wireless headphones (As of May 9th 2022. Excluding Open style.)
- ULTRA SMALL & LIGHT- These bluetooth earbuds fit comfortably in your ear.
- IMMERSIVE SOUND QUALITY- With the Integrated Processor V1.
- ULTRA-CLEAR CALL QUALITY- Advanced Voice Signal Processing lets sound come in clear. Sony's best ever call quality in truly wireless headphones (As of May 19th 2022).
If you’re a cyclist looking for lightweight and compact headphones with smart sound features and noise-canceling capabilities, the Sony LinkBuds S earbuds are the perfect choice. With their ultra-small and light design, these earbuds won’t weigh you down during your rides. They also come with smart sound features that adjust settings based on your behavior, ensuring an optimal listening experience. The integrated Processor V1 delivers immersive sound quality, while the advanced Voice Signal Processing ensures clear call quality.
Additionally, the Sony LinkBuds S offers a multipoint connection, allowing you to connect two devices at once. With long battery life and quick charging capabilities, you won’t have to worry about running out of power during your cycling sessions. These earbuds are a great companion for any cyclist seeking high-quality sound and convenience.
Best For: Cyclists looking for lightweight and compact headphones with smart sound features and noise-canceling capabilities.
Pros:
- Ultra small and light design, perfect for cycling without weighing you down
- Smart sound features that adjust settings based on user behavior for an optimal listening experience
- Long battery life and quick charging capabilities for uninterrupted use during cycling sessions
Cons:
- Absence of wireless charging feature
Google Pixel Buds Pro
- The battery keeps up with your life, with up to 11 hours of listening time, or up to 31 hours with the charging case[2]; you can charge them wirelessly with Pixel Stand or other Qi-certified chargers[3]
For cyclists seeking the ultimate in noise-canceling technology, the Google Pixel Buds Pro earbuds deliver unparalleled sound quality and performance. With up to 31 hours of battery life and a charging case, these Bluetooth headphones are perfect for long rides.
The active noise cancellation feature, combined with the Silent Seal technology, blocks out external sounds, allowing you to immerse yourself in your music or podcast fully. If you need to be aware of your surroundings, the transparency mode lets you hear outside sounds in real-time.
The beamforming mics ensure crystal clear calls, even in windy conditions, thanks to the wind-blocking mesh covers. Plus, these earbuds are water-resistant with an IPX4 rating, making them suitable for outdoor activities.
With wireless charging capabilities and compatibility with both Android and iOS devices, the Google Pixel Buds Pro is a top choice for cyclists looking for premium audio and functionality.
Best For: Cyclists seeking the ultimate in noise-canceling technology.
Pros:
- Up to 31 hours of battery life with the charging case
- Active Noise Cancellation with Silent Seal for blocking outside sounds
- Transparency mode for hearing outside sounds in real-time
Cons:
- The earbuds may not fit comfortably for all users
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation)
- RICHER AUDIO EXPERIENCE — The Apple-designed H2 chip helps to create more intelligent noise cancellation and deeply immersive sound. The low-distortion, custom-built driver delivers crisp, clear high notes and full, rich bass in stunning definition.
- NEXT-LEVEL ACTIVE NOISE CANCELLATION — Up to 2x more Active Noise Cancellation for dramatically less noise when you want to focus. Transparency mode lets you hear the world around you, and Adaptive Audio seamlessly blends Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency mode for the best listening experience in any environment.
- CUSTOMIZABLE FIT — Includes four pairs of silicone tips (XS, S, M, L) to fit a wide range of ears and provide all-day comfort. The tips create an acoustic seal to help keep out noise and secure AirPods Pro in place.
- DUST, SWEAT, AND WATER RESISTANT — Both AirPods Pro and the MagSafe Charging Case are IP54 dust, sweat, and water resistant, so you can listen comfortably in more conditions.
- PERSONALIZED SPATIAL AUDIO — With sound that suits your unique ear shape along with dynamic head tracking, AirPods Pro deliver an immersive listening experience that places sound all around you. You can also listen to select songs, shows, and movies in Dolby Atmos.
With its H2 chip for intelligent noise cancellation and immersive sound, the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) earbuds provide cyclists with unparalleled audio quality on their rides. These wireless earbuds feature a custom-built driver that delivers crisp high notes and rich bass, ensuring good separation between highs, mids, and lows. The low-end is solid and provides a satisfying rumble.
In terms of active noise cancellation, the AirPods Pro are on par with top competitors like Sony and Sennheiser, offering excellent noise cancellation comparable to Bose Quiet Comfort buds. The call quality is also impressive, with background noise masking for clear conversations.
The form factor is comfortable and balanced, thanks to the customizable fit with four pairs of silicone tips. Control functions are easy to use with touch control on the stem, including squeeze functionality for accurate control and swipe volume control. While the battery life is average compared to peers, the AirPods Pro comes with a high-quality magnetic case for convenient storage.
Additional features like spatial audio, speech detection, and easy pairing make for an immersive and user-friendly experience. The AirPods Pro also offers stable and intuitive Bluetooth connectivity, along with USB-C charging for rapid and adaptable charging.
With improved audio quality and functionality, the Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) is a justified choice for cyclists in the Apple ecosystem.
Best For: Cyclists looking for wireless earbuds with excellent sound quality, active noise cancellation, and comfortable form factor.
Pros:
- Intelligent noise cancellation and immersive sound
- Customizable fit with four pairs of silicone tips
- Excellent call quality with background noise masking
- Wireless MagSafe charging
Cons:
- Average battery life compared to other earbuds
Jabra Elite 10
- IMMERSE YOURSELF IN SURROUND SOUND MAGIC - Experience the immersive magic of Dolby Atmos with Head Tracking technology, creating a 3D audio environment that surrounds you with sound. Plus, as you move, the sound moves with you for an even more realistic experience.
- LONG-LASTING BATTERY WITH FAST CHARGE - Stay powered up for your marathon work calls with up to 36 hours of use without ANC (27 hours with ANC on). And when you need a quick boost, our fast charging feature gets you back in action in minutes. Need even more time? Just use one bud while the other charges.
- DURABLE PROTECTION AGAINST WATER AND DUST - Rain or shine, our IP57-rated buds are built to withstand water and dust, making them perfect for any adventure or everyday use.
- CONNECT TO MULTIPLE DEVICES SIMULTANEOUSLY - Connect to two devices simultaneously with Bluetooth Multipoint. Easily switch between your laptop and smartphone for music, calls, meetings, podcasts and movies.
- ADVANCED NOISE CANCELLATION FOR ANY ENVIRONMENT - Experience advanced ANC technology that adapts to your ears and surroundings, providing top-notch noise cancellation even in challenging environments. No need to ask others on the call – can you hear me?
Designed with Jabra ComfortFit technology and a semi-open design, the Jabra Elite 10 earbuds provide all-day comfort and relief from in-ear pressure, making them an ideal choice for cyclists seeking a comfortable and immersive audio experience.
The Jabra Elite 10 earbuds are designed to fit a variety of ear sizes, including small ears, and are extremely comfortable for extended periods of use. With 10mm speakers and Dolby Head Tracking technology, these earbuds offer lifelike audio and clarity, creating an immersive Dolby Atmos experience.
The earbuds also feature a neutral sound with an easy-to-use equalizer in the app, allowing you to customize your audio preferences. The Jabra Elite 10 earbuds also come with 2x stronger noise cancellation, effectively blocking unwanted background noise, even in challenging environments.
With up to 6 hours of playback and 27 hours with the wireless charging case, these earbuds provide a long-lasting audio experience. The Jabra Elite 10 True Wireless Earbuds are compatible with iOS, Android, PC, tablets, and more, ensuring seamless connectivity with your devices.
Best For: Cyclists seeking a comfortable and immersive audio experience.
Pros:
- Jabra ComfortFit technology provides all-day comfort
- Semi-open design and EarGel design relieve in-ear pressure
- Spatial Sound with Dolby Head Tracking technology for immersive Dolby Atmos experience
Cons:
- ANC performance not as strong as Sony and Bose over-ear headphones
Jaybird Vista 2
- Note : If the size of the earbud tips does not match the size of your ear canals or the headset is not worn properly in your ears, you may not obtain the correct sound qualities or call performance. Change the earbud tips to ones that fit more snugly in your ear.Specific uses for product : Sports and Exercise
- ACTIVE NOISE CANCELLATION cuts out background noise so you stay in the zone and perform at your max.
- PRODUCT NOTE: The earbuds include 3 sizes of interchangeable eargels. If the size of the earbud tips do not fit properly, change the earbud tips to ones that fit snugly in your ears to obtain the correct sound quality and call performance.
- SURROUNDSENSE keeps you connected and aware of your surroundings. Wind-guarded mics monitor ambient noise so you can stay spatially aware without missing a beat.
- EARTHPROOF DURABILITY IP68 waterproof, sweatproof, and dustproof, with MIL-STD 810G freeze, shock, and impact resistance..Note:If you face issue in Bluetooth connectivity please turn off the Bluetooth function for a couple of minutes, then turn it back on
Stay connected and enjoy premium sound quality during your cycling adventures with the Jaybird Vista 2. These earbuds are designed with active noise cancellation (ANC) and SurroundSense technology, providing you with an immersive audio experience while maintaining spatial awareness.
The 6mm milled drivers deliver high-quality sound, and you can customize the EQ profiles to suit your preferences. The sport-fit design, along with three sizes of interchangeable ear gels, ensures a secure and comfortable fit during your rides.
With its IP68 waterproof and MIL-STD 810G durability ratings, the Vista 2 can withstand sweat, rain, and drops, making it suitable for outdoor activities. The intuitive controls and Bluetooth connectivity allow for easy operation, and the headphones are compatible with the iPhone, Apple Watch, and iPad.
With positive user experiences and stellar sound quality, the Jaybird Vista 2 is a recommended choice for cyclists who prioritize both sound performance and durability.
Best For: Cyclists who prioritize both sound performance and durability.
Pros:
- Active noise cancellation (ANC) and SurroundSense technology for immersive audio experience
- 6mm milled drivers for high-quality sound
- IP68 waterproof and MIL-STD 810G durability ratings for outdoor activities
Cons:
- Difficulty finding the right size for small ears
Best Headphones for Cycling: On-Ear
Bose QuietComfort
- LEGENDARY NOISE CANCELLATION: Effortlessly combines noise cancelling headphones technology with passive features so you can shut off the outside world, quiet distractions, and take music beyond the beat
- PREMIUM COMFORT: Plush earcup cushions softly hug your ears, while a secure and comfortable padded band gently keeps your over ear headphones in place for those extra-long listening sessions
- 2 LISTENING MODES: These wireless Bluetooth headphones feature Quiet and Aware Modes that let you toggle between full noise cancelling or full awareness of your surroundings for seamless sound control
- HIGH-FIDELITY AUDIO/EQ CONTROL: Supercharge your favorite tracks with high-fidelity audio and Adjustable EQ that puts you in control of the bass, mid-range, and treble for unmatched bold sound
- ALL DAY BATTERY LIFE: Bose QuietComfort wireless headphones provide up to 24 hours of battery on a single charge, plus a 15-minute charge gives you up to 2.5 hours of additional play time
If you’re looking for top-notch headphones to enhance your cycling experience, the Bose QuietComfort headphones are a game-changer. These headphones feature legendary noise cancellation technology, ensuring that you can enjoy your ride without any distractions from external sounds. With up to 24 hours of battery life on a single charge, you can enjoy your cycling sessions without worrying about running out of power.
The plush earcup cushions provide comfort, allowing you to wear them for long listening sessions without any discomfort. Additionally, the adjustable EQ and wind block feature allow you to personalize your sound and tune out breezy environments. The Bose Music app provides easy setup and customization, while the multi-point toggle allows for seamless device switching.
With excellent sound quality and active noise cancellation, the Bose QuietComfort Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones in black are a must-have for any cyclist looking to enhance their audio experience on the road.
Best For: Cyclists who want to enjoy their rides without distractions from external sounds and prioritize comfort during long listening sessions.
Pros:
- Legendary noise cancellation technology for an immersive audio experience
- Up to 24 hours of battery life on a single charge, perfect for long cycling sessions
- Adjustable EQ and wind block feature for personalized sound and tuning out breezy environments
Cons:
- The headphones may be on the heavier side, which could affect comfort during extended use
Beats Studio Pro
- BEATS' CUSTOM ACOUSTIC PLATFORM delivers rich, immersive sound whether you’re listening to music or taking calls.
- LOSSLESS AUDIO via USB-C plus three distinct built-in sound profiles to enhance your listening experience
- HEAR WHAT YOU WANT with two distinct listening modes: fully-adaptive Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) and Transparency mode
- ENHANCED COMPATIBILITY with one-touch pairing and a robust set of native Apple and Android features
- PERSONALIZED SPATIAL AUDIO with dynamic head tracking place you at the center of an immersive 360-degree listening experience
The Beats Studio Pro headphones are a top choice for cyclists seeking rich, immersive sound and exceptional noise cancellation. These headphones feature the Beats Custom Acoustic Platform, delivering a high-quality audio experience with its lossless audio via USB-C and three distinct built-in sound profiles.
With two listening modes – Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) and Transparency mode – you can choose to block out external noise or let it in when needed. The Beats Studio Pro headphones also offer enhanced compatibility with both Apple and Android devices, personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking, voice-targeting mics for clear call performance, and up to 40 hours of battery life.
Users have praised the exceptional sound quality, effective active noise cancellation, top-notch build quality, comfortable fit for long listening sessions, and impressive battery life. These headphones provide an immersive audio experience that enhances your cycling journey.
Best For: Cyclists seeking rich, immersive sound and exceptional noise cancellation.
Pros:
- Exceptional sound quality
- Effective active noise cancellation
- Top-notch build quality
Cons:
- May be expensive for some
Factors to Consider When Choosing Headphones for Cycling
When choosing headphones for cycling, there are several factors you need to consider.
First, you need to decide between noise isolation and situational awareness – do you want to block out external sounds or be aware of your surroundings?
Second, sweat and water resistance is crucial to ensure your headphones can withstand the elements.
Additionally, a secure fit during movement is important to prevent the headphones from falling off while you ride.
Noise Isolation Vs. Situational Awareness
Consider your specific needs and preferences when choosing headphones for cycling.
The choice between noise isolation and situational awareness will greatly impact your overall listening experience and safety on the road.
Noise isolation headphones block out external sounds, providing an immersive listening experience but reducing awareness of your surroundings.
On the other hand, situational awareness headphones, like bone conduction ones, allow you to hear ambient sounds while also listening to audio, making them suitable for outdoor activities like cycling.
Noise isolation can be beneficial for focusing on music during a workout, while situational awareness is important for safety during activities like cycling, where you need to hear traffic or other environmental sounds.
Ultimately, your decision will depend on your specific needs, preferences, and the activities you plan to engage in while using the headphones.
Sweat and Water Resistance
Sweat and water resistance should be a key consideration when selecting headphones for your cycling needs. When you’re out on your bike, it’s important to have headphones that can withstand the elements.
Look for headphones with a high IPX rating, as this indicates better protection against sweat and water exposure. Choosing headphones with sweat and water resistance can help prolong their lifespan and ensure they continue functioning optimally, especially during intense physical activities like cycling.
Moisture can be damaging, so it’s beneficial to choose headphones that can withstand outdoor cycling sessions or humid conditions. Make sure to consider the level of sweat and water resistance when choosing headphones for cycling to ensure they can handle the rigors of outdoor and high-intensity workouts.
Secure Fit During Movement
To ensure a comfortable and secure fit during your cycling sessions, it’s important to choose headphones that provide a stable and customizable fit.
Look for headphones specifically designed to stay in place during intense movement and physical activity. Consider factors like ear size and pressure relief to ensure a comfortable fit, especially during extended periods of use.
Lightweight headphones are ideal as they minimize bulk and reduce the chances of them slipping off.
Customizability is key, so opt for headphones that offer different ear tip sizes to cater to individual preferences and ear sizes.
Additionally, consider headphones with advanced technology like bone conduction, which ensures a secure fit and keeps the headphones in place during your cycling sessions.
Wireless Connectivity Options
When selecting headphones for cycling, one important factor to consider is the wireless connectivity options available.
Wireless connectivity plays a crucial role in allowing you to connect your headphones to devices without the hassle of tangled wires. Bluetooth technology is commonly used in headphones, enabling seamless pairing with various devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops. This provides you with flexibility and convenience during your cycling sessions.
Additionally, some headphones offer multi-device connectivity, allowing you to easily switch between devices without the need to pair and unpair repeatedly.
It’s also important to assess the battery life and charging options for wireless headphones. Longer battery life and quick charging capabilities can enhance your overall cycling experience.
Lastly, consider the range of wireless connectivity to ensure a stable connection, especially during outdoor activities like cycling.
Battery Life for Long Rides
Consider the battery life of your headphones for long rides to ensure they can keep up with your cycling sessions. Look for headphones that offer at least 8-10 hours of battery life. This will ensure that they last throughout your long rides without running out of power.
It’s also a good idea to choose headphones with quick charging capabilities. This way, you can recharge them during rest stops or breaks on longer cycling journeys.
Additionally, make sure the headphones have a comfortable fit and are lightweight. This will minimize any discomfort you may experience during extended use on long rides.
Finding a good balance between battery life, sound quality, and comfort is essential for an enjoyable and satisfying experience during your cycling adventures.
