Are your workouts missing that extra oomph? Don’t let your outdated headphones hold you back any longer. It’s time to upgrade to the next level of audio technology.
In this roundup review, we will explore the six best over-ear headphones for working out – sweatproof and soundproof. These cutting-edge devices will elevate your workout experience, delivering unbeatable sound quality while keeping the sweat at bay.
But which ones made the cut? Stay tuned to find out which headphones will take your workouts to new heights.
Bose QuietComfort Ultra
- LEVELED-UP LISTENING: Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones with spatial audio give you an immersive experience that makes music feel more real; CustomTune technology offeres personalized sound, shaped to you
- WORLD-CLASS NOISE CANCELLATION: These noise cancelling headphones feature Quiet Mode, Aware Mode and Immersion Mode, which combines full noise cancellation and Bose Immersive Audio
- CRYSTAL CLEAR CALLS: Microphones focus on the sound of your voice and the noise cancelling headphones with mic filter out background noise for the clearest phone calls of any Bose headphones
- ELEVATED DESIGN, LUXE COMFORT: Soft ear cushions hug your ears, the band spreads pressure evenly and elevated materials let you make a statement with these noise cancelling over-the-ear headphones
- BLUETOOTH WIRELESS HEADPHONES: Advanced Bluetooth 5.3 offers connection within 30 feet of your device; SimpleSync allows you to sync with a Bose smart soundbar so you can listen to TV at your own volume
If you’re looking for over-ear headphones that are perfect for working out, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra offers exceptional sound quality and comfort. With their Spatial Audio technology and CustomTune feature, these headphones deliver a personalized sound experience based on the shape of your ears.
The Quiet Mode, Aware Mode, and Immersion Mode provide world-class noise cancellation, allowing you to focus on your workout without distractions. Crystal clear phone calls are made possible with noise-canceling microphones, while the soft ear cushions ensure a comfortable fit during your exercise routine.
Thanks to Bluetooth wireless connectivity and Advanced Bluetooth 5.3, you can easily connect to your devices and enjoy up to 24 hours of battery life. With a 15-minute quick charge, you can get up to 2.5 hours of playtime.
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra is a top choice for those seeking high-quality sound and maximum comfort while working out.
Best For: Those who prioritize sound quality and comfort during workouts.
Pros:
- Exceptional sound quality and personalized sound experience with CustomTune technology.
- World-class noise cancellation with Quiet Mode, Aware Mode, and Immersion Mode.
- Comfortable fit with soft ear cushions.
Cons:
- Lack of a printed manual can be inconvenient for some users.
Audio-Technica ATH-M20xBT
- Wireless, on-the-go design delivers the same sonic signature as the wired ATH-M20x professional studio headphones
- 40 mm drivers with rare earth magnets and copper-clad aluminum wire voice coils are tuned for enhanced low-frequency performance
- Low latency mode improves synchronicity between audio and video for smooth streaming and gaming
- Multipoint pairing function allows you to stay connected to two Bluetooth devices at once
- Up to 60 hours of continuous use on a full charge and up to 3 hours of use on a 10-minute rapid charge (via USB-C connection)
For those who prioritize wireless convenience and long battery life, the Audio-Technica ATH-M20xBT headphones are the ideal choice for working out.
With a wireless, on-the-go design, you can easily move around without the hassle of tangled cords. The headphones also feature a low latency mode for smooth streaming and gaming, as well as a multipoint pairing function for connecting to two Bluetooth devices at once.
The 40mm drivers with rare earth magnets and copper-clad aluminum wire voice coil deliver a clear AT sound with slightly more bass, making them perfect for music production and general listening.
With up to 60 hours of continuous use on a full charge and up to 3 hours of use on a 10-minute rapid charge, you can enjoy your workouts without worrying about running out of battery. Additionally, the headphones come with a cord for wired use, providing flexibility for different situations.
Best For: Those who prioritize wireless convenience and long battery life during workouts.
Pros:
- Wireless, on-the-go design
- Clear AT sound with slightly more bass
- Up to 60 hours of continuous use on a full charge
Cons:
- Plastic material may produce creaking sounds when adjusting
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
With its legendary noise cancellation technology and comfortable fit, the Bose QuietComfort headphones are perfect for those seeking an immersive workout experience without any distractions. These headphones feature plush earcup cushions and a comfortable padded band, ensuring a snug and secure fit during intense workouts.
With two listening modes, Quiet and Aware, you can customize your audio experience to suit your preferences. The high-fidelity audio and adjustable EQ deliver superb sound quality, allowing you to enjoy your favorite workout playlist with exceptional clarity.
The headphones offer up to 24 hours of battery life on a single charge, ensuring they’ll last through multiple workout sessions. The included microphone cord allows for wired use, and the multi-point toggle feature makes switching between devices seamless.
With the Bose Music app, you can easily set up and customize your headphones to enhance your workout experience even further.
Best For: Those looking for wireless headphones with exceptional noise cancellation and comfort during workouts.
Pros:
- Legendary noise cancellation technology for a distraction-free workout experience.
- Plush earcup cushions and comfortable padded band for a snug and secure fit.
- High-fidelity audio and adjustable EQ for superb sound quality.
Cons:
- Lack of auto shut-off feature.
Raycon Fitness Headphones
- 🎧 Wireless Over-The-Ear Headphones: Quick dry, breathable, and comfortable cushions that will fit so well you won’t remember you’re wearing them. Three interchangeable cushions are provided upon purchase for easy cleaning.
- 🎧 Active Noise Cancellation and Awareness mode: With Active Noise Cancellation, tune out external distractions and focus in. With awareness mode, you can stay aware of what’s around you without having to compromise.
- 🎧 Voice Command: There’s no need to touch your phone while you use your headphones, with voice command (*Siri and Google assistant only*) you can automatically skip to a next song, call your family and friends, all hands-free
- 🎧 Multipoint Connection: Connect to two devices at once without having to disconnect and reconnect to another device. With multipoint, you can stay connected to both your laptop and your smartphone. Save your time to focus on the grind.
- 🎧 Built-In Microphone: Take calls on your Fitness Headphones wherever you are. With 5 total microphones on your headphones, receivers will hear you loud and clear.
Designed with quick, dry, breathable cushions and active noise cancellation, the Raycon Fitness headphones are perfect for those seeking a comfortable and immersive workout experience. These wireless over-the-ear headphones provide a secure and comfortable fit, allowing you to focus on your workout without any distractions. The active noise cancellation feature blocks out external sounds, creating a more immersive audio experience.
With voice command compatibility, you can easily control your music or take calls using Siri or Google Assistant. The headphones also offer a multipoint connection, allowing you to connect to two devices simultaneously. The IPX4 water resistance ensures that these headphones can withstand your toughest workouts. Additionally, the Raycon Fitness Headphones come with three quick swap ear cushions, giving you the option to customize your fit.
With positive reviews on comfort, sound quality, and battery life, these headphones are a great choice for your workout needs.
Best For: Those who prioritize comfort, sound quality, and battery life during their workouts.
Pros:
- Quick dry, breathable cushions for added comfort
- Active noise cancellation for an immersive audio experience
- Voice command compatibility with Siri and Google Assistant
Cons:
- Lack of ambiance level selection
Soundcore Life Q30
- Advanced Noise Cancellation Technology: Maintain your focus with Life Q30’s hybrid active noise cancellation. Dual noise-detecting microphones pick up and filter out up to 95% of low-frequency ambient sound to ensure nothing distracts you from your music.
- Ultimate Noise Cancellation Experience: Customize Life Q30’s noise cancellation with 3 modes—Transport minimizes airplane engine noise, Outdoor reduces traffic and wind, and Indoor dampens the sound of busy offices with people talking in the background. Note: ANC is not compatible with an AUX Cable connection.
- Hi-Res Music: Hear every detail of your favorite songs thanks to Life Q30’s 40mm drivers. The highly-flexible silk diaphragms reproduce thumping bass and crisp treble that extends up to 40kHz for improved clarity.
- 40-Hour Playtime: Life Q30 active noise cancelling headphones play up to 40 hours of music in noise cancelling mode. Standard mode extends the playtime to 60 hours, while a short 5-minute charge gives you 4 hours of listening.
- Pressure-Free Comfort: Life Q30 active noise cancelling headphones have ultra-soft protein leather earcups with memory foam padding to fit snugly over your ears. The lightweight build also ensures they’re comfortable for long listening sessions.
If you’re looking for over-ear headphones that are perfect for working out, the Soundcore Life Q30 headphones offer advanced noise cancellation technology to ensure nothing distracts you from your music. With dual noise-detecting microphones, these headphones can filter out up to 95% of low-frequency ambient sound, allowing you to maintain your focus. The noise cancellation can be customized with three different modes: Transport, Outdoor, and Indoor, each designed to minimize specific types of background noise.
The 40mm drivers deliver hi-res sound, reproducing thumping bass and crisp treble for improved clarity. These headphones also have an impressive battery life, providing up to 40 hours of playtime in noise-cancelling mode. The lightweight build and ultra-soft earcups with memory foam padding make them comfortable for long listening sessions.
Best For: Those who want over-ear headphones with advanced noise cancellation technology for a distraction-free music experience during workouts.
Pros:
- Advanced hybrid active noise cancellation technology filters out up to 95% of low-frequency ambient sound.
- Customizable noise cancellation with three modes: Transport, Outdoor, and Indoor.
- Hi-res sound with 40mm drivers for thumping bass and crisp treble.
Cons:
- Control buttons could be larger and more easily seen/read.
JBL Tune 760NC
- JBL PURE BASS SOUND: For over 70 years, JBL has engineered the precise, impressive sound found in big venues around the world. These headphones reproduce that same JBL sound, punching out bass that’s both deep and powerful
- 35H BATTERY LIFE WITH BT plusNC 2H RECHARGING TIME: Listen wirelessly for 35 hours with active noise cancelling for long-lasting fun, or 50 hours with ANC off. Recharge the battery quickly in 2 hours
- HANDS FREE CALLS AND VOICE CONTROL: Easily control your sound, manage your calls and trigger voice assistants from your headphones with the button on your earcup.
- ACTIVE NOISE CANCELLING: Tune in to your music. Tune out the noise
- LIGHTWEIGHT AND FOLDABLE DESIGN: Lightweight and compact foldable design makes these headphones always ready to travel everywhere you go.
For those seeking a lightweight and foldable option with exceptional sound quality, comfort, and battery life, the JBL Tune 760NC headphone is an excellent choice for working out. These headphones feature JBL’s Pure Bass Sound, which provides a beautifully balanced sound with deep and powerful bass, as well as crisp and clear highs.
The ear cups are soft and comfortable, ensuring a snug fit during your workouts. The active noise cancellation feature effectively blocks out external noise, allowing you to focus on your music. The button layout is well-thought-out for easy accessibility, and you can easily manage calls and trigger voice assistants from the headphones.
With over 35 hours of battery life, these headphones will last through multiple workouts. Overall, the JBL Tune 760NC Wireless Headphones offer high quality and value for the price.
Best For: Those who prioritize exceptional sound quality, comfort, and long battery life in their wireless headphones.
Pros:
- Beautifully balanced sound with deep and powerful bass
- Soft and comfortable ear cups for a snug fit
- Effective active noise cancellation
Cons:
- Some users experienced issues with noise cancellation in certain situations
Factors to Consider When Choosing Over-Ear Headphones for Working Out
When choosing over-ear headphones for working out, there are several factors you should consider.
First, consider the noise cancellation effectiveness to ensure you can focus on your workout without distractions.
Second, look for sweat-resistance features to protect the headphones from moisture damage.
Third, prioritize a secure and comfortable fit to prevent them from falling off during intense movements.
Additionally, check the battery life and charging options to ensure they can last through your workout sessions.
Lastly, make sure the headphones are compatible with your workout equipment for seamless integration.
Noise Cancellation Effectiveness
Consider the noise cancellation effectiveness of over-ear headphones for working out by evaluating their specific technology and ability to filter out ambient noise.
Different headphones offer various modes for noise cancellation, allowing you to adjust the level of noise isolation according to your preference.
Advanced noise-detecting microphones are crucial in filtering out a high percentage of ambient noise, especially low-frequency sounds.
However, it’s important to check the impact of noise cancellation on battery life, as some headphones may have different playtimes in noise-canceling mode versus standard mode.
To get a better understanding of how effective noise cancellation is in real-world scenarios, it’s advisable to read user reviews and feedback.
Sweat Resistance Features
Look for over-ear headphones that offer sweat and moisture protection with an IPX4 or higher water resistance rating. These headphones are specifically designed to withstand the rigors of intense workouts, ensuring that your sweat won’t damage the internal components.
It’s important to choose headphones that can handle moisture, as excessive sweat can cause regular headphones to malfunction. Additionally, consider headphones with quick-dry and breathable cushions to minimize discomfort during your workouts. These features will help prevent the buildup of moisture and allow for better airflow, keeping you cool and comfortable.
Secure and Comfortable Fit
To ensure a secure and comfortable fit for your over-ear headphones during workouts, prioritize adjustable headbands and cushioned ear cups. Look for headphones that offer these features to provide a snug and personalized fit for different head sizes and shapes.
Adjustable headbands allow you to customize the fit, ensuring that the headphones stay in place during physical activity. Cushioned ear cups not only enhance comfort but also help to create a barrier between your ears and the outside environment.
Additionally, consider headphones with sweat-resistant materials and breathable cushions to keep you comfortable during intense workouts. It’s important to find headphones with a secure grip and stable headband design to prevent slipping or shifting during movement.
Pay attention to user reviews mentioning long-term comfort and stability during active use to find headphones that offer a secure fit for your workouts.
Battery Life and Charging
When choosing over-ear headphones for working out, prioritize battery life and charging capabilities to ensure uninterrupted use during your workouts. Consider options that offer long battery life, with some models providing up to 24 hours of playtime on a single charge.
Look for headphones with quick charging capabilities, as a 15-minute charge can give you several hours of playtime, adding convenience to your workouts. Pay attention to the charging method as well, ensuring compatibility with your devices, whether it uses USB-C or other methods.
Compare the battery life with your intended use, whether you prefer longer sessions for intense workouts or shorter sessions for casual listening. Take into account the impact of battery life on your workout routine and how frequently you’ll need to charge the headphones to support it.
Compatibility With Workout Equipment
If you’ve ensured that your over-ear headphones have reliable battery life and charging capabilities, the next factor to consider when choosing headphones for working out is their compatibility with gym equipment and workout accessories.
Check if the headphones are compatible with gym equipment like treadmills, stationary bikes, or weight machines. You want to make sure that you can easily connect your headphones to these devices so you can enjoy your music or podcasts while working out.
Additionally, ensure that the headphones can be comfortably worn with workout accessories like headbands or sweatbands. The last thing you want is for your headphones to interfere with your workout gear and cause discomfort.
