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Headphones perfect for every type of workout

Mia Wandl

Updated August 18, 2025 - 2.59am

9PR: Best headphones for workout — 9Product Reviews

Motivation to work out often comes from within, but for some of us, it starts in the ears, with a killer playlist blasting to get us amped up. Whether you're lifting weights, running laps around the park, or powering through a HIIT session, a reliable pair of workout headphones can elevate your performance and keep you in the zone.

From sweatproof buds to noise-cancelling over-ears, finding the perfect pair is all about matching them to your training style. We've rounded up the best workout headphones to help you power through every rep, run, or ride.

NOTE: Prices are accurate at time of publishing.

Over-ear headphones

Bose QuietComfort Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones

Now $100 cheaper

The Bose QuietComfort Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones were my first love (i.e. first pair of proper headphones), and I can't express how much I adore these. I used these constantly, both in the gym and during my daily routines, and they never disappointed. The noise cancellation feature is unmatched, which makes the gym feel like your own personal space. The Bose QuietComfort Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones live up to their reputation with outstanding noise cancellation. They combine both active and passive noise-cancelling technology, allowing you to block out distractions completely.

The plush earcups and soft, padded headband ensure long-lasting comfort, even during extended wear. One concern many people have with over-ear headphones is the potential for sweat damage, particularly to the earpads. I used these headphones for years, through running, walking, and countless gym sessions, and they held up incredibly well. As long as you take a moment to dry them off during or after your workout, you'll have no issues at all.

It features two listening modes, Quiet and Aware, which let you choose between full noise cancellation and situational awareness depending on your environment. You'll get up to 24 hours of battery life on a full charge, and a 15-minute charge will give you another 2.5 hours.

Beats Studio Pro

Get them for $390

The Beats Studio Pro are an excellent over-ear headphone choice for gymgoers, offering rich, immersive sound to keep you locked in and energised during workouts. These feature Active Noise Cancelling to help block out distractions, allowing you to focus entirely on your own session. Otherwise, they also offer Transparency Mode, which keeps you aware of your surroundings when needed.

These headphones offer an impressive 40-hour battery life, and a 10-minute charge gives you up to 4 hours of playback, which means they're ready for even the longest (or most spontaneous) training days. Voice-targeting microphones ensure clear quality, and the on-ear controls make it easy to manage music, take calls, or activate Siri without missing a beat.

Although not sweat- and water-resistant, these are a great choice for gymgoers who avoid cardio.

In-ear headphones

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Wireless Noise Cancelling in-Ear Earbuds

Buy yours for $445

If you are a gymgoer, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds are an excellent choice. These offer superior sound quality and effective noise cancellation, perfect for blocking it all out and staying focused. Choose between three listening modes – Quiet Mode for noise cancellation, Aware Mode to hear your surroundings, and Immersion Mode for Bose Immersive Audio.

They give you up to six hours of playtime, and a quick 20-minute charge gives you another two hours. Noise-rejecting microphones ensure clearer calls, while touch controls make it easy to adjust volume, skip tracks, switch modes, and answer calls. The earbuds also include nine soft ear tips and stability bands so you can find the best fit for your ears.

Beats Powerbeats Pro Wireless Earbuds

Get it for $379.95

The Beats Powerbeats Pro Wireless Earbuds are a great option for any general workout. Built to withstand sweat and water, these earbuds are ideal for tough training sessions. They feature powerful sound with dynamic range and noise isolation.

Each earbud has complete volume and track controls, allowing you to easily manage your music. These Powerbeats also include auto-play/pause functionality for ease of use. With adjustable, secure-fit ear hooks and customisable ear tip options, they ensure a comfortable, personalised fit.

These high-performance earbuds provide up to nine hours of playback, or over 24 hours with the charging case. The Fast Fuel feature offers 1.5 hours of playback from just a five-minute charge. Lastly, they feature audio sharing, allowing you to listen alongside a friend or stay synced during a workout.

SHOKZ OpenRun Pro 2

Grab it for $318

If you are a runner, the SHOKZ OpenRun Pro 2 are an elite choice, combining comfort, safety and powerful sound in one lightweight package. Its advanced DualPitch system combines bone conduction and air conduction speakers, ensuring excellent sound quality.

Made for performance, these earbuds feature flexible ear hooks and a lightweight frame that helps keep them in place during intense movement. The wind-resistant microphones ensure crystal clear sound, even on breezy days. The open-ear design keeps you aware of your surroundings whilst listening to music, making it ideal for outdoor workouts.

Enjoy up to 12 hours of playtime with one full charge, and a five-minute charge gives you an additional 2.5 hours. These OpenRun Pro 2 are water and dust resistant, making them an excellent option for runners.

If you want fully waterproof headphones, opt for the Shokz Openswim Pro for $299 or the Shokz OpenRun Bone Conduction Sports Headphones, which are also $299.

JBL Endurance Peak 3

Get yours for $179

For water-based sport, check out the JBL Endurance Peak 3 earbuds. These are water and dust-proof, with water resistance that lets them withstand up to 30 minutes submerged in 1.5 metres of salt or fresh water.

The Ambient Aware setting lets you stay aware of your surroundings, while the TalkThru feature ensures you can have conversations without removing your earbuds. The dual-beamforming microphones in each earbud ensure your voice is clear during calls, even in noisy environments.

Baseus Eli Sport 1 Open-Ear TWS Earbuds

Buy it for $94.38

The Baseus Eli Sport 1 earbuds are great for runners on a budget. They feature an open-ear design that lets you stay aware of your surroundings whilst enjoying music or taking calls. Choose between True Wireless Stereo (TWS) mode for complete wireless freedom or wear them around your neck for added stability during intense activities. These Baseus Eli Sport 1 earbuds offer up to 30 hours of battery life, making them ideal for longer runs. They are also water and dust-resistant, so you don't have to worry about them getting ruined.

Soundcore V20i by Anker Open-Ear Headphones

Was $89.99, now $59.49

Lastly, these Soundcore earbuds are another budget-friendly option. These are sweat- and water-resistant, making them a great workout option. Their open-ear design ensures you can enjoy your music while staying aware of your surroundings. They also feature four adjustable positions to help you find the most comfortable and secure fit. The 16mm drivers deliver deep, punchy bass, while the four microphones and AI technology ensure crystal-clear calls.