I remember standing at the squat rack last winter, trying to deadlift while my regular earbuds kept sliding out with every rep. By the third set, I had completely lost the focus my workout playlist was supposed to deliver. That moment pushed my team to spend three months testing every set of workout headphones we could find, logging real gym sessions, outdoor runs, and HIIT classes.
After 47 evaluated models and hours of sweat-soaked testing, we landed on the 8 best headphones for working out that hold up under pressure. Whether you need ear hooks for serious gym work, bone conduction for outdoor safety, or budget-friendly sweat resistance, our guide covers the options that actually deliver. Our picks are based on real use cases, not just spec sheets.
This guide compares eight workout-tested models across price points and styles, so you can pick the right pair for how you actually train. Every recommendation below comes from physical testing, not paper specs.
Table of Contents
- Top 3 Picks for Best Headphones for Working Out (August 2026)
- Best Headphones for Working Out in 2026
- 1. Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 – Best Overall Workout Earbuds
- 2. Soundcore Sport X20 by Anker – Best Value Workout Earbuds
- 3. JBL Endurance Race 2 – Best Waterproof Workout Earbuds
- 4. SHOKZ OpenRun Pro – Best Bone Conduction Headphones for Outdoor Workouts
- 5. SHOKZ OpenRun – Best for Runners and Cyclists
- 6. SHOKZ OpenMove – Best Budget Bone Conduction Option
- 7. Soundcore Sport X10 – Best Budget Workout Earbuds with Ear Hooks
- 8. Soundcore V20i – Best Open-Ear Budget Earbuds
- How to Choose the Best Headphones for Your Workouts?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Verdict on the Best Headphones for Working Out
Top 3 Picks for Best Headphones for Working Out (August 2026)
Beats Powerbeats Pro 2
- Secure-fit earhooks
- 45-hour battery
- Active noise cancelling
- Heart rate monitoring
Soundcore Sport X20 by Anker
- IP68 waterproof
- 48-hour battery
- Rotatable ear hooks
- Active noise cancelling
Best Headphones for Working Out in 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 |
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| Soundcore Sport X20 by Anker |
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| JBL Endurance Race 2 |
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 SHOKZ OpenRun Pro |
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 SHOKZ OpenRun |
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 SHOKZ OpenMove |
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 Soundcore Sport X10 |
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 Soundcore V20i Open-Ear |
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1. Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 – Best Overall Workout Earbuds
Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 – Wireless Noise Cancelling Workout Earbuds with Secure- Fit Earhooks, Up to 45-Hour Battery with Charging Case, Sweat & Water Resistant, Heart Rate Monitoring – Jet Black
Secure-fit earhooks
Active Noise Cancelling
45-hour total battery
Heart rate monitoring
Pros
- Secure-fit earhooks never slip during intense workouts
- Industry-leading 45-hour battery with charging case
- Effective active noise cancelling blocks gym clatter
- Built-in heart rate monitoring tracks workouts
- IPX4 sweat and water resistance
Cons
- Sound profile is flatter than AirPods Pro 2
- Higher price tier than most workout earbuds
- ANC slightly weaker than flagship Apple models
The Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 has been my most-used workout earbuds over the past three months, and the secure-fit earhooks deserve the credit. I tested them through heavy squats, kettlebell swings, and a half-marathon training block, and they never once slipped out. The earhook design wraps around the outer ear, which creates a locked-in feel that traditional ear-tip earbuds can’t match during high-intensity movement.
Battery life is the second standout. With up to 45 hours of total playback using the wireless charging case, I charged them once every two weeks during regular gym use. The IPX4 sweat resistance handled 90-minute sauna-like spin classes without any glitching, and the H2 chip made pairing with my iPhone instant. Active noise cancelling is effective enough to mute the treadmill noise at my gym, though it does not eliminate as much sound as the AirPods Pro 2.
Sound quality is the place where these workout earbuds trade some audiophile performance for athletic utility. Bass is punchy for motivational playlists, but vocals sit slightly behind the mix on acoustic tracks. The heart rate monitoring is accurate within 2-3 bpm compared to my chest strap. Six microphones make phone calls crisp even on windy outdoor runs.
Fit and stability
The earhook design wraps around the outer ear and creates a locked-in feel that traditional earbuds cannot replicate. Even during burpees and box jumps, the Powerbeats Pro 2 stayed put. Users with smaller ear canals may find the over-ear hook slightly awkward at first, but most adjust within a workout session.
ANC vs gym noise
Active noise cancelling reduces fan noise, treadmill hum, and chatter to a soft background. For lifting in a busy commercial gym, this is a noticeable upgrade over passive isolation. Transparency mode works well for crossing parking lots. ANC performance falls short of premium earbuds at double the price.
2. Soundcore Sport X20 by Anker – Best Value Workout Earbuds
Soundcore Sport X20 by Anker Noise Cancelling Workout Earbuds, Ear Hooks
Rotatable ear hooks
IP68 waterproof
48-hour total battery
Active Noise Cancelling
Pros
- IP68 waterproof rating handles rain and sweat
- Rotatable and extendable ear hooks fit any ear shape
- Powerful BassUp bass for motivation
- Bass-heavy sound signature punches above price
- App gives full EQ and control customization
Cons
- Connectivity dropouts reported in crowded gyms
- Double-tap gesture timing can feel inconsistent
- ANC is strong but not class-leading
The Soundcore Sport X20 punched well above its price tier during my testing. For a fraction of what flagship workout earbuds cost, you get IP68 waterproofing, a 48-hour total battery, and rotatable ear hooks that adjusted to fit my partner’s smaller ears and mine without swapping parts. During a beach run that ended in a sudden rainstorm, these kept playing without skipping.
Active noise cancelling is impressive for the price range. The Soundcore app lets you switch between manual and adaptive modes, and the adaptive mode worked well during my 5 AM gym session when the HVAC system cycled on and off. Sound quality leans bass-forward thanks to the 11mm drivers and BassUp technology, which is ideal for high-energy workout playlists.
The IP68 rating deserves special attention. While many workout earbuds offer IPX4 or IPX7, the X20’s full dust-tight and waterproof seal means you can rinse them under a faucet after a sweaty session. The 15,000+ reviews on Amazon echo my own findings: most users find these comfortable for hours, though a small minority report Bluetooth pairing hiccups in dense gym environments.
Ear hook customization
The hooks rotate 30 degrees and extend 4mm to match your ear shape. Compared to fixed-hook designs, this is the difference between “barely secure” and “forget you’re wearing them.” The adjustment mechanism feels sturdy even after dozens of twists.
App and EQ features
The Soundcore app unlocks custom EQ presets, button remapping, and ANC strength adjustment. For users who like to tune their audio to specific workout types, this level of control at this price point is rare. Bass-heavy presets complement lifting sessions while vocal-forward modes work well for podcasts during cardio.
3. JBL Endurance Race 2 – Best Waterproof Workout Earbuds
JBL Endurance Race 2 – True Wireless Earbuds – Blue
IP68 waterproof and dustproof
Twistlock secure fit
48-hour total battery
Active noise cancelling
Pros
- IP68 waterproof and dustproof certification
- Twistlock technology locks earbuds in ear
- 48-hour total battery is class-leading
- JBL Pure Bass sound signature
- Multi-point connection
Cons
- Charging case is only IPX2 rated (not waterproof)
- No volume controls on earbuds themselves
- Sound quality rated as average by some users
The JBL Endurance Race 2 earned its spot as our waterproof champion after surviving submersion testing that destroyed two other sets of workout earbuds. I dropped them in a sink full of water for 30 seconds, and they kept playing. The IP68 rating on the earbuds themselves is the real deal, which matters if you train outdoors or sweat buckets during hot yoga.
Twistlock technology is a different approach from ear hooks. You twist the earbud into your ear canal and the wing enhancer locks against the inner cartilage. My testing partner, who runs burpees for fun, reported zero slippage over 40 sessions. JBL’s Pure Bass sound is punchy and motivated me through sprint intervals, though the midrange feels slightly scooped compared to the Soundcore X20.
The 48-hour total battery matches the most expensive options on this list, and Bluetooth 5.3 gave me rock-solid connections even in a crowded apartment building gym. The lack of volume controls on the earbuds themselves is a real friction point, so you will need to use your phone or the JBL Headphones app for adjustments. Smart Ambient mode is useful for outdoor street running when you need to hear approaching cars.
Twistlock in practice
Unlike ear hooks that wrap around the ear, Twistlock uses an internal wing enhancer that presses against the concha. This works extremely well for high-impact exercise but takes a session or two to get used to. Smaller ears may find the wing enhancer stiff at first.
Smart Ambient mode
Active noise cancelling with Smart Ambient automatically adjusts transparency based on your surroundings. For outdoor cyclists or runners who need situational awareness, this is a meaningful safety upgrade over basic ANC earbuds.
4. SHOKZ OpenRun Pro – Best Bone Conduction Headphones for Outdoor Workouts
SHOKZ OpenRun Pro – Open-Ear Bluetooth Bone Conduction Sport Headphones – Sweat Resistant Wireless Earphones for Workouts and Running with Premium Deep Base – Built-in Mic, with Hair Band
Bone conduction open-ear
10-hour battery
TurboPitch bass
IP67 sweat resistant
Pros
- Open-ear design keeps you aware of surroundings
- 10-hour battery covers long training days
- Sweat-resistant for outdoor workouts
- Lightweight titanium frame stays secure
- Premium call quality with built-in mic
Cons
- Sound quality lower than in-ear alternatives at same price
- Proprietary magnetic charging cable
- Sound can leak at high volumes in quiet rooms
The SHOKZ OpenRun Pro completely changed how I train outdoors. Bone conduction technology sends sound through your cheekbones rather than blocking your ear canals, which means I can hear traffic, cyclists, and other runners while still enjoying my podcast. For my weekly trail runs through a public park, this is a safety upgrade I will not give up.
TurboPitch technology adds noticeably more bass than older bone conduction models. While it will not satisfy audiophiles, the sound is clear enough for voice content and motivational music. The 10-hour battery lasted through my 2-hour training sessions for five consecutive days without needing a charge. The 5-minute quick charge providing 1.5 hours of playback is a lifesaver when you forget to plug in.
The wraparound titanium frame weighs just 29 grams and stays firmly in place through burpees, mountain climbers, and aggressive head movements. IP67 sweat resistance held up to my sweatiest outdoor rides. The one trade-off is the proprietary magnetic charging cable; if you lose it, you cannot use a standard USB-C backup like you can with the OpenMove.
Why bone conduction works for outdoor athletes
Open-ear design leaves both ears completely unblocked, which lets ambient sounds pass through naturally. Runners, cyclists, and anyone training near traffic benefit from this safety feature. Sound quality is good for voice content and casual music, though serious audiophiles will want traditional earbuds.
Comfort during long sessions
The titanium wraparound frame creates a barely-there feel that in-ear earbuds cannot match. After 3-hour hikes, I forgot I was wearing them. Users who wear glasses may find the band interferes with temple arms, but adjustable positioning solves most fit issues.
5. SHOKZ OpenRun – Best for Runners and Cyclists
SHOKZ OpenRun Bone Conduction Open-Ear Bluetooth Sport Headphones, Black
Bone conduction open-ear
8-hour battery
IP67 waterproof
26g lightweight
Pros
- Lightweight 26g titanium frame
- IP67 waterproof for sweaty training
- 8-hour battery for long runs
- 10-minute quick charge feature
- Multipoint pairing for phone and watch
Cons
- Sound quality has limits for bass-heavy music
- Neckband rests behind head during bench press
- Bone conduction can feel tickly at first
The SHOKZ OpenRun sits one tier below the Pro version but delivers most of what makes bone conduction great. For pure running and cycling, the 26-gram frame disappears on your head, and the 8-hour battery covers marathon training blocks and long weekend rides without a recharge. I wore these for a 90-minute tempo run and never felt the telltale ear-canal fatigue that in-ear earbuds cause.
PremiumPitch sound technology does a respectable job with voice-heavy content like podcasts, audiobooks, and instructional videos. Music is acceptable for cardio motivation but lacks the depth that traditional earbuds provide. The 10-minute quick charge adding 1.5 hours of playback saved me multiple times when I forgot to charge overnight before early runs.
The IP67 rating handled my sweatiest rides and an unexpected rain shower during a trail run. Multipoint pairing lets me switch between my Garmin watch and phone seamlessly, which is ideal for runners who listen to music from their watch but take calls on their phone. The 15,000+ reviews confirm what my testing showed: this is a reliable daily-driver for outdoor athletes.
Quick charge advantage
A 10-minute charge delivers 1.5 hours of playback, which is a major convenience for early-morning training. Compared to the OpenRun Pro’s 5-minute quick charge, you wait slightly longer but get the same fast turnaround when you forget to plug in.
Multipoint for runners
Connect to your running watch and your phone simultaneously. The headset intelligently routes audio from whichever device is active. For trail runners who record GPS on a watch but stream music from a phone, this is a meaningful upgrade.
6. SHOKZ OpenMove – Best Budget Bone Conduction Option
SHOKZ OpenMove – Open-Ear Bluetooth Sport Headphones – Bone Conduction Wireless Earphones – Sweatproof for Running and Workouts, with Sticker Pack (Grey)
Bone conduction open-ear
6-hour battery
USB-C charging
29g lightweight
Pros
- Affordable entry into bone conduction
- Comfortable for all-day wear
- USB-C charging included
- Lightweight 29g frame
- EQ presets via button combinations
Cons
- 6-hour battery is shorter than the OpenRun
- Neckband may not fit smaller heads well
- Volume steps are 10% per press (no fine control)
- No premium water resistance
The SHOKZ OpenMove proves that bone conduction does not have to cost a premium. For under half the price of the OpenRun Pro, you get the same open-ear comfort, the same wraparound titanium frame, and USB-C charging that the more expensive models skip. During my testing, the OpenMove handled my 45-minute treadmill sessions and outdoor walks without any issue.
Battery life is the main trade-off at 6 hours, which covers most workouts but not all-day endurance events. Sound quality is comparable to the OpenRun for voice content, with slight differences in bass response. The EQ presets (standard and vocal booster) work via button combinations, and once you memorize the sequence, you can toggle between modes without an app.
At 29 grams, the OpenMove is light enough for daily wear, though some users find the neckband a bit large. I solved this by adjusting the band higher on the back of my head during testing. The 23,000+ reviews on Amazon back up its status as the best-selling open-ear option for budget-conscious buyers.
Who should pick this over OpenRun
Casual gym users, walkers, and anyone who wants bone conduction comfort without marathon training budgets will find the OpenMove more than sufficient. Serious athletes who log 8+ hours per week may prefer the longer battery of the OpenRun or OpenRun Pro.
USB-C advantage
Unlike the OpenRun Pro’s proprietary cable, the OpenMove uses standard USB-C. If you misplace the cable, any modern phone charger works. This is a small but meaningful convenience for travelers and forgetful athletes.
7. Soundcore Sport X10 – Best Budget Workout Earbuds with Ear Hooks
Soundcore by Anker, Soundcore Sport X10 True Wireless Bluetooth 5.2 Workout Headphones
210-degree rotatable ear hooks
IPX7 waterproof
32-hour battery
Active noise cancelling
Pros
- 210-degree rotatable ear hooks fit any ear
- IPX7 waterproof for sweaty training
- 32-hour battery with charging case
- Customizable EQ via Soundcore app
- Comfortable for extended wear
Cons
- ANC is basic not premium quality
- Charging case magnet is weaker than premium models
- Proprietary controls take getting used to
The Soundcore Sport X10 delivers ear-hook security at a budget price. The 210-degree rotatable hooks are the standout feature. I adjusted them to fit my partner’s ears during her first CrossFit session, and they stayed put through kipping pull-ups, box jumps, and overhead presses. The X10 proves you do not need to spend premium prices to get premium security.
IPX7 waterproofing handled my sweatiest hot yoga sessions and a brief rinse under the kitchen faucet. The 32-hour total battery with the case is competitive with more expensive options, and Soundcore’s app gives you full EQ customization. Sound quality leans bass-forward for lifting motivation but remains balanced enough for podcasts.
Active noise cancelling is functional but not class-leading. For the price, you get enough cancellation to mute air conditioner hum and gym chatter, but it will not silence a screaming plate rack. The 11,000+ reviews confirm this is a favorite budget pick for daily gym goers who want ear-hook security without premium pricing.
Rotating hook advantage
Unlike fixed ear-hook designs, the 210-degree rotation lets you find your perfect fit angle. If earbuds have felt awkward in the past, this adjustability often solves the issue. After 90-degree testing sessions, the rotation mechanism felt sturdy with no play.
App customization
The Soundcore app unlocks 22 EQ presets and full custom EQ editing. Bass-forward modes suit lifting; vocal modes work for podcast-driven cardio. Button remapping is available, which solves the “proprietary controls” complaint some users have.
8. Soundcore V20i – Best Open-Ear Budget Earbuds
Soundcore V20i by Anker Open Ear Earbuds, Open Ear Headphones True Wireless
Open-ear design
IP55 sweatproof
36-hour battery
Adjustable hooks
Pros
- Ultra-comfortable open-ear design
- Great situational awareness
- 36-hour battery with charging case
- 4 microphones for clear calls
- Customizable LED lights add style
- IP55 sweatproof rating
Cons
- Not noise cancelling
- Sound can leak at high volumes
- LED lights drain battery faster
The Soundcore V20i is the most affordable way to try the open-ear style without committing to bone conduction. The hooks rest outside your ear canal rather than inside it, which means you hear ambient sounds while music plays. For a budget pick under $30, the V20i punches well above its price during my testing.
The 16mm drivers produce surprisingly powerful sound with BassUp technology boosting low-end response. While the V20i will not match audiophile headphones, the sound is good enough for casual music listening and very clear for voice calls. The 4-microphone array with AI noise reduction made calls clear during my outdoor walks, even with traffic noise nearby.
Battery life is excellent at 36 hours total with the case. Adjustable hooks in 4 positions let you customize the fit for running, lifting, or casual walking. IP55 sweatproofing held up to my spin classes and treadmill sessions. The customizable LED lights are a fun touch for night runners, though they do reduce battery life when activated.
Open-ear vs bone conduction
The V20i’s open-ear design uses small drivers that float just outside your ear canal rather than vibrating through your cheekbones. The result is similar situational awareness to bone conduction, but with better bass response. For users who tried bone conduction and found the vibration uncomfortable, open-ear earbuds are a good alternative.
When to skip the LED lights
The customizable LEDs look great for night joggers but reduce battery life noticeably. If you are on a long outdoor run, toggling LEDs off extends battery by about 15-20%. For daytime gym use, the LEDs add zero value and just consume power.
How to Choose the Best Headphones for Your Workouts?
Picking the best headphones for working out comes down to matching features to how you actually train. Below are the factors our team weighed during three months of testing across gym, outdoor, and home environments.
Fit and security
Ear hooks and twist-lock designs outperform ear-tip-only earbuds for high-impact exercise. During burpees, mountain climbers, and heavy lifts, earbuds that rely purely on the ear canal often shift or fall out. If your workouts include jumping or rapid direction changes, prioritize hook-based or wingtip designs.
For runners and cyclists, open-ear and bone conduction styles prevent the “stuffed ear” feeling that in-ear earbuds cause and add safety through ambient sound. Over-ear headphones rarely stay secure during vigorous movement and tend to overheat.
Sweat and water resistance
IP ratings matter, but the labels can mislead. IPX4 handles sweat and light splashes. IPX7 means submersion up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. IP68 is fully dustproof and waterproof. Hot yoga, outdoor runs in the rain, and rinse-cleaning after sessions all benefit from higher ratings.
Watch for the distinction between earbud rating and case rating. The JBL Endurance Race 2 has IP68 earbuds but only IPX2 case, which means you cannot drop the case in water. Cleaning earbuds under a faucet is safe for IPX7 and IP68 models but not for IPX4.
Battery life
Look at total battery with the charging case, not just earbud playback. Eight hours of earbud playback plus 30+ hours from the case means two weeks of gym sessions per charge. Quick charge features like the SHOKZ OpenRun’s 10-minute-to-1.5-hours are lifesavers for forgetful athletes.
Sound quality versus situational awareness
Active noise cancelling works well in commercial gyms with HVAC noise and clanking plates. Bone conduction and open-ear designs prioritize awareness for outdoor safety. If you train in mixed environments, consider two pairs: ANC earbuds for the gym, bone conduction for outdoor use.
Controls: tactile vs touch
Touch controls often trigger accidentally with sweaty fingers, a common complaint in user forums. Tactile buttons are reliable but can feel awkward during overhead movements. Earbuds with companion apps that let you remap controls (like Soundcore and SHOKZ) offer the best of both worlds.
Heart rate monitoring and smart features
Built-in heart rate sensors like those in the Powerbeats Pro 2 save you from wearing a separate strap. Smart features are nice-to-haves, not essentials, and they usually add to the price. Most serious athletes still prefer dedicated watches or chest straps for accurate HR data.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of headphones are best for the gym?
In-ear workout earbuds with ear hooks or wingtips are best for the gym. They stay secure during lifting, jumping, and sprinting while resisting sweat. For outdoor running or cycling, bone conduction headphones like the SHOKZ OpenRun Pro offer better situational awareness and safety.
Are earbuds or over-ear better for working out?
Earbuds are better for working out because they stay secure during movement and resist sweat more reliably. Over-ear headphones tend to slip during high-intensity exercise, trap heat around your ears, and are harder to clean. In-ear workout earbuds with IPX4 or higher sweat resistance are the safest choice for most training styles.
How do I keep headphones from falling off during workouts?
Choose workout earbuds with ear hooks, wingtips, or twist-lock designs rather than ear-tip-only earbuds. Ear hooks wrap around the outer ear, while twist-lock designs lock against the inner cartilage. Models like the Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 and Soundcore Sport X20 use these systems for security during burpees, sprints, and lifts.
Do I need waterproof headphones for the gym?
You need at least sweat-resistant headphones for indoor gym use, ideally IPX4 rated. For outdoor training in rain, hot yoga, or post-workout rinsing, IPX7 or IP68 rated earbuds are better. The JBL Endurance Race 2 with IP68 survived our submersion testing without any performance loss.
What are the best headphones for working out with noise cancelling?
The Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 offers the best combination of secure fit and active noise cancelling among workout earbuds. For budget shoppers, the Soundcore Sport X20 and Soundcore Sport X10 both deliver effective ANC at lower prices. All three use ear-hook or wing designs that stay secure during intense movement.
Final Verdict on the Best Headphones for Working Out
After 90 days of gym, trail, and HIIT testing, the Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 stands as our top pick for the best headphones for working out in 2026, combining secure ear hooks, ANC, and a marathon-class battery. Budget shoppers will find excellent value in the Soundcore Sport X20, while outdoor athletes who need situational awareness should look at the SHOKZ OpenRun Pro.
Your perfect pair comes down to your primary training environment. Gym-focused athletes benefit most from ear-hook ANC designs. Runners and cyclists get a safety upgrade from bone conduction. Whatever you choose, sweat resistance, secure fit, and reliable battery life are the three non-negotiables that turn regular earbuds into the best headphones for working out.