Music is the ideal accompaniment to exercise, but you don’t want to just stick any old pair of headphones in your ears before heading to the gym. If you’re planning to work up a sweat, make sure you’re using a pair that can handle a soaking. We test scores of headphones each year, from noise-cancelling models designed to block out the world around you to exercise-friendly pairs that can handle exposure to sweat and other forms of liquid.
- 1 Waterproof wireless headphones for swimming
- 2 How we test waterproof headphones
- 3 How Much Should You Spend on Waterproof Headphones?
- 4 How to choose waterproof headphones?
- 5 How should I use waterproof Bluetooth headphones?
- 6 How should I use waterproof Bluetooth headphones?
- 7 Best Waterproof Headphones: Buying Guide
Take your music in the water with the best waterproof headphones. These are not the typical headphones variety that you usually see. They’re made for swimmers and are there to not only soundtrack those laps but also block out ambient noise, whether at the beach or in the pool.
While best running headphones offer a lot of protection against dust and dirt, they only have enough water resistance to fend off sweat and rain, not complete and extended submersion in a pool. You’ll find most of those with a rating at or close to IPX5, which is considered splash-proof instead of waterproof. To take headphones into the pool, they need an IPX7 rating or higher, which we’ve considered for every pair included in this guide. We’ve also looked for ones with a tight but comfortable fit that won’t budge in the water.
Many waterproof headphones also have an MP3 player and storage integrated into the device since you won’t be able to bring your phone into the pool, and Bluetooth tends to struggle underwater. Though standalone waterproof MP3 players exist, you probably want to carry anything you don’t need to while doing laps.
There is something about listening to music or a podcast in the shower that just feels right. Maybe it’s because it’s one of the few times during the day when we can truly relax and take some time for ourselves. You might be surprised by how much you enjoy listening to music in the shower, but it’s times like these when waterproof headphones come in really handy.
If you love listening to music in the shower, waterproof headphones are a must for this activity. They will not only protect your waterproof earbuds but also make it possible to enjoy your favorite tunes while getting clean and staying safe. There are many waterproof headphones on the market, and we’ve researched them so that you don’t have to!
Best Waterproof Headphones for 2023:Fully reviewed
Experience catchy music and amazing sound without full sound isolation. H2O Audio’s underwater headphones for swimming have an integrated clip design for easy attachment to swim goggles
Whether you are streaming from your smartwatch (attached with goggles) or using the built-in MP3 player to upload your favorite songs, our wireless bone conduction headphones are designed for comfort during swimming laps
Highest IPX8 Rating H2O Audio’s bone-conducting headphones will provide the ultimate swimming and water experience. We have over 15 years of experience making premium waterproof products for swimmers with the highest IPX8 waterproof capability
2.FINIS Amnis Stream Swim Bluetooth Headphones
The FINIS Amnis Stream Swim headphones comes with so many extra gadgets, you really have to pay attention to the instructions that come in the box. Besides the headphones, there are two goggle clips, a charger, a mesh carrying bag and three clips that correspond to different versions of Apple and Garmin watches.
Unlike the other headphones on this list, these work only via Bluetooth, so you have to a) already own a compatible smartwatch and b) be prepared to swim with your watch clipped to your goggle strap or under your swim cap. So they’re definitely not for everyone. Your smartwatch also needs to be able to offer ‘offline listening’.
We did enjoy the fact that we didn’t have to physically drag and drop any music onto these via connecting to a computer — and charging them up was easy as you just slide the left headphone (the one without the buttons) onto the charging port. Attaching the headphones to our goggles was a little fiddly, to begin with, but it’s one of those things that gets easier (and quicker) the more often you do it. We actually found it easier to attach the headphones to our goggles before putting them on.
For the Bluetooth connection to work in the water, your smartwatch needs to be within 5cm of the cable — so, basically, you need to wear your smartwatch on your head. We found it’s best to completely remove the watch strap on your smartwatch and then attach the watch face to one of the appropriate watch clips that come in the box — this means you can then easily clip the watch onto your goggle straps on the crown of your head. Of course, not everyone will want to continually remove watch straps — if that’s you, you can just slip the watch beneath your swim cap (and hope it’s tight enough that it won’t accidentally slide out mid-session). Personally, we like to wear our smartwatches on our wrists for tracking laps and heart rate, but Bluetooth can’t travel that far through the water, so you really do have to decide what’s more important — the stats from your session or listening to tunes? If you want both stats and tunes, then we suggest you opt for headphones with a built-in MP3 instead.
Of course, there are other things to love about these headphones (if you’re happy wearing your watch on your head, that is) — they’re well designed, robust and the sound quality is clear. For those who don’t like tracking lengths, these are a game-changer.
Although the Jabra Elite Sports waterproof earbuds are not swim-friendly, they are definitely suitable for intense outdoor exercises with sweating and after-shower involved. There are no wires or cords attached to them – you are provided with two plugs that fit your ears perfectly well. Thanks to the 3 sizes of EarGels that come with the headphones, you will certainly find the right fit for you. You will find two microphones in each earbud that filter out the noise and allow you to listen to music without interruptions.
The battery life of this gadget is impressive – you have got 4.5 hours of playback that can be extended up to 13.5 with a portable charging case in use. This means that no workout and errand running is too time-consuming for you. As if the Elite model was not high-end enough, the manufacturer offers a 3-year warranty that is unlike what any other headphone retailer can provide.
4.Swimbuds Sport Premium Waterproof Headphones
This new and improved pair of waterproof earbuds by Swimbuds is a splurge worth making. Not only does it come with 3 interchangeable fin tips to provide you with the best watertight seal, but it also has the shortest cord that is quite handy. There is a case you can use for transporting your waterproof earbuds from A to B with no accumulation of dust or dirt.
The commitment of the manufacturer to reduce the carbon footprint resulted in the further improvement of the packaging of the headphones. Now they come in an eco-friendly pack that won’t end up rotting in the landfill for hundreds of years.
If you are in search of waterproof earbuds that can be tucked into the strap of your swimming goggles and forgotten about, we strongly suggest including this model in your narrowed down list of waterproof headphones to consider investing in.
5.AGPTEK IPX8 Waterproof in-Ear Earphones
AGPTEK waterproof earphones are the optimal choice for those of you who are on a budget yet are not willing to settle for less. Apart from being the cheapest swim-friendly headphones on the market, they offer a crisp sound quality comparable to high-end models. The noise isolation mechanism embedded into them prevents you from hearing the outside sounds that can interfere with your listening experience.
This device has a nano-coating that allows you to submerge it under the water as deep as 1.5 meters and for as long as 30 minutes. You won’t have to deal with tangled cords due to the coiled earphone cables the manufacturer integrated into the headphones.
What’s more, you are given an extension cord that can be used for extending the length between your device and the headphones. The 8 GB internal memory authorizes you to download up to 2000 tracks to listen to when swimming, so you are covered for months.
6.TBI Pro PowerPro Sport Bluetooth Headphones 5.0-50 Hours
If you prefer to be on style even when swimming in the pool, the TBI PowerPro Bluetooth waterproof in-ear buds are your best bet. You won’t have to be worried about twisted wires anymore – the 3 pairs of ear tips of different sizes ensure the right fit that is comfortable and wireless.
The construction of the ear tips is secure enough to fit well into your ear canal and not cause you headaches after several hours of continuous listening. One charge gives you 12 hours of use, which is peculiar to this model. The manufacturer added a noise-canceling mechanism for you to listen to clear music without any background noise and to make quick calls when needed.
Due to the headphones’ compact design, you can easily bring them with you to your next diving destination and fully benefit from this practical device.
Waterproof wireless headphones for swimming
The H2O Audio Sonar are bone conduction waterproof headphones that clip securely to your swimming goggles and transmit sound to your auditory nerve without needing earplugs (unless you choose to wear a pair). The buttons are large with raised markings, allowing you to operate them with wet hands and to switch tracks by feel.
Unlike many competing waterproof headphones, the H2O Audio Sonar can also play music via Bluetooth – though this is limited by the range of Bluetooth underwater. The signal will only stretch around 4-in when the receiver is submerged, so you’ll need to attach your smartwatch to your goggles for this to work (streaming from a phone isn’t feasible).
It’s good to have another option if you use your watch for streaming music regularly, but the Audio Sonar’s generous 8GB onboard storage will be plenty for most swimmers. If you have an Apple Watch, check out H2O Audio’s Interval headphones, which hold your watch’s body at the back of your swimming cap so you can stream tunes from Apple Music, Spotify, Pandora and others.
8.FINIS Duo Underwater Music MP3 Player
The Finis Duo waterproof headphones have been around for a while but are still a good choice. Like the Shokz OpenSwim above, they use bone conduction technology to transmit sound underwater via your cheekbones. The Finis’ twin units attach to either side of your goggles, while large buttons are provided on one of the ear pendants to allow you to fast forward, rewind, shuffle, and play or pause your tracks.
With 4GB of flash memory, you can store up to a thousand songs depending on file size, while the battery provides around seven hours of continuous use. The sound quality might not bowl over audiophiles, but on the plus side, you’ll likely have less fiddling around than with more conventional in-ear headphones.
Back on dry land, charging and uploading are achieved via a magnetic, USB-based dock. Although we found it necessary to regularly clean the very small charging points on the device as they can get clogged up.
Still a solid option, the Finis Duo now faces competition from smaller, less obtrusive-looking systems. Attaching to your goggles also means that, unlike other waterproof headphones, they’re only usable for swimming and not other activities. Worth considering if time in the water is your only concern, they’re quite a specialized product.
Water-Resistant vs. Waterproof Headphones
So now that you understand what the numbers represent, what kind of IP ratings should you be looking for? To keep things simple, we’re just going to refer to everything as an IPX rating. It’s rare for a manufacturer to even advertise a rating below IPX3, which weak for water resistance. Once you get to IPX4 status, it means the product can withstand water sprayed from any direction, and that’s the bare minimum rating you’ll find on the headphones we’ve chosen here.
IPX5 means a product can withstand water jetting from a 6.3mm nozzle, and IPX6 means it can handle water jets from a 12.5mm nozzle. Both of these levels should be good enough for a sweaty workout or exercising/walking in light rain. These headphones probably shouldn’t be exposed to heavy faucet pressure, however, and they definitely shouldn’t be submerged.
IPX7 gear can be submerged, up to a meter, for up to 30 minutes. An IPX7 rating is where a product makes the leap from water resistant to waterproof, and is the level we look for when choosing products that make the cut for this list. IPX8 devices exist, but they tend to be more for pro-level gear and less for everyday consumer use.
How we test waterproof headphones
We’ve tested every pair of waterproof headphones in this list and in order for them to be included in this very select and specific roundup, we needed each pair of headphones to excel at a number of things.
The first thing, of course, is effective waterproofing – you need these swim-specific headphones to survive multiple dunks in the drink. But that is closely followed by audio performance, battery life, wearer security, comfort and ease of use. An IPX7 rating should not mean poor sound quality and we made sure to check for that.
From there, we looked at Bluetooth connectivity – or alternatives to it, such as onboard storage or (anyone familiar with smartphones knows that generally, they don’t play well with water) or FM radio transmitters. Elsewhere, on-device controls, comfort, value for money and of course decent sound quality helped us to reach our verdicts.
Waterproof Headphones for Swimming
Generally speaking, a Bluetooth signal doesn’t do well underwater. So while a wireless pair of IPX7 in-ears might be enticing, if you’re planning on swimming laps, it’s possible that the Bluetooth signal may not be steady or work at all.
Because of this, there are companies that specialize in Bluetooth products for swimming, like H2O Audio(Opens in a new window). These products are subject to the same limitations of Bluetooth signal underwater, but they’re designed to keep the streaming element of the headphones above water, whereas traditional headphones will be dunked underwater every time you turn your head to breathe.
Another possible issue in using headphones for swimming is range. Your Bluetooth audio source needs to be kept nearby in order to maintain a strong streaming signal. So while it’s totally possible to listen to streaming audio while swimming, the bulk of the products we mention in this story aren’t designed for it.
Charging Waterproof Headphones
For a variety of reasons, there are far more exercise-focused earphones than there are over-ear or on-ear headphone options. Within the in-ear world, you have true wireless earphones, as well as more traditional wireless models, which have cables connecting the earpieces, but still stream wireless audio.
As true wireless earphones become more common, it’s worth mentioning they all come with charging cases and that most manufacturers are loath to point out that the IP rating you see on the box refers only to the earphones. Some cases have waterproof exteriors, but we’ve yet to test a model with a waterproof interior. So, if you put earpieces into the charging case while they’re wet, you run the risk of damaging the product.
This is an issue that cabled wireless models don’t have, but often these pairs have covered charging ports and the fine print explains that their waterproof rating doesn’t apply when that port’s cover is open.
In other words, there are water-resistant and waterproof headphones aplenty, but you still must use common sense. A simpler way to think of it is: When you are charging them, treat your headphones as if they aren’t water-resistant. Dry the port before attaching a cable or and dry your earpieces before you place them in a case.
How Much Should You Spend on Waterproof Headphones?
A solid IP rating doesn’t seem to have a huge impact on price these days. That said, if water resistance is important to you, the best pairs we’ve tested generally start around $100. Often the more expensive pairs are priced higher not because of their water rating, but because they offer noise cancellation or another expensive feature.
How to choose waterproof headphones?
When choosing what waterproof headphones to invest in, you should take into consideration factors like the objective of the use, the features you are not ready to compromise, and the budget you can allocate for the purchase.
As for the objective, it can either be using waterproof headphones when swimming, kayaking or scuba diving. Paired with a waterproof MP3 player, you are equipped with the ultimate sound system even when out and about. The other circumstances include running and/or hiking. It can get boring, or worse, unmotivating, to push yourself without some upbeat tunes in your ears or a narrator describing to you in detail what happened to your favorite book character.
As for the features, one of the essential ones to consider is the existence or the absence of Bluetooth connectivity that makes the headphones, consequently, wireless or wired. Unless you have a waterproof music player that you can take under the water with you, wireless headphones are the better choice. A built-in memory, a high-tech design and a pair of replacement buds are all some extra features that you might find to be a necessity for you.
As for the budget, just with any electronic gadget, the more you pay, the better is the quality and the wider is the range of features the manufacturer offers. That said, you don’t have to pay a lot to get a good pair of waterproof headphones that will perform its basic function well. If you don’t plan on using your device every day, it makes sense to purchase a budget-friendly pair of waterproof headphones that will not break the bank and neither will compromise the sound quality.
How should I use waterproof Bluetooth headphones?
As opposed to the wired headphones, the wireless ones that employ the Bluetooth technology are the easiest to use during high-intensity activities. With their popularity growing each day, manufacturers have come up with a wide variety of earbuds that can accommodate every ear shape and every sound preference. If you are unsure as to what earbud shape will suit you best, pay a visit to your local electronics store and try a few pairs on before making an online purchase.
Once you find your best fit, make sure your ears are squeaky clean before putting your waterproof earbuds in. This is crucial not because of common-sense hygiene, but because of the risk of dirt getting in between your ears and the device thus allowing the water to leak through. Ensure your earbuds are just as clean before putting them on too. When planning on wearing your waterproof earbuds, push them in your ears as far as they can comfortably fit. You will notice that the noise is most likely canceled out, which allows you to listen to your music with no outside distractions. If you happen to notice that the water is leaking through your earbuds, you should either refit them in your ear or exchange them for a different pair.
How should I use waterproof Bluetooth headphones?
As opposed to the wired headphones, the wireless ones that employ the Bluetooth technology are the easiest to use during high-intensity activities. With their popularity growing each day, manufacturers have come up with a wide variety of earbuds that can accommodate every ear shape and every sound preference. If you are unsure as to what earbud shape will suit you best, pay a visit to your local electronics store and try a few pairs on before making an online purchase.
Once you find your best fit, make sure your ears are squeaky clean before putting your waterproof earbuds in. This is crucial not because of common-sense hygiene, but because of the risk of dirt getting in between your ears and the device thus allowing the water to leak through. Ensure your earbuds are just as clean before putting them on too. When planning on wearing your waterproof earbuds, push them in your ears as far as they can comfortably fit. You will notice that the noise is most likely canceled out, which allows you to listen to your music with no outside distractions. If you happen to notice that the water is leaking through your earbuds, you should either refit them in your ear or exchange them for a different pair.
Best Waterproof Headphones: Buying Guide
Waterproof or Water-resistant
When looking for waterproof headphones, it is important to consider the type of waterproofing offered. There are three levels of waterproofing: water-resistant, sweatproof, and waterproof.
Water-resistance means that the device can withstand a light splash or rain shower but should not be submerged in water. They can handle light moisture exposure. Sweatproof means that the device can handle moisture from sweating but should not be used in wet environments like showers or pools.
Waterproof means the device can be completely submerged in water and will still function properly. It is important to note that not all waterproof headphones are created equal- some may have a higher level of waterproof protection than others.
Water-resistant headphones are ideal for waterproof earbuds that are meant to be used in the shower. Since you will not likely fully submerge them, water resistance is adequate.
IPX Rating
It is also important to check if the headphones are IPX rated. The IPX rating indicates how well the product protects against liquid ingress. The higher the number, the better the protection. Most good-quality waterproof headphones will have an IPX rating of at least IPX-7. This means that they are waterproof and can be submerged in water up to one meter for up to 30 minutes.
Sound Quality
Even though waterproof headphones may not be as good as regular headphones when it comes to sound quality, there are still some great options on the market. It is important to consider what type of sound you are most interested in.
If you want headphones that will completely immerse you in your music, or do you prefer headphones with a more balanced sound. You want to make sure that the headphones produce good-quality audio so that you can enjoy your music or podcast while in the shower.
Some waterproof headphones are designed to be used in the shower but not for other activities like exercising. If you want waterproof earbuds that can handle both, make sure they have a good sound quality and come with different size tips so that one fits your ear canal perfectly.
Look for headphones that have noise-canceling technology and/or a waterproof rating of IPX68 or higher.
Noise Canceling
Another feature to look for when purchasing waterproof headphones is noise-cancellation. This feature allows you to listen to your music without any interference from outside noises. Noise-canceling technology can be found in both waterproof and water-resistant headphones.
So, if you want waterproof earbuds that can block out the noise of your shower, make sure they have this feature.
Over-ear or In-ear
The type of waterproof headphones you choose is a personal preference. Over-ear headphones offer more protection against water and are typically more comfortable to wear, but they can be bulky and difficult to travel with.
On-ear headphones are less bulky and easier to transport, but they offer less protection against water and may not be as comfortable as over-ear headphones. So, it is important to consider what you will use waterproof headphones for and choose accordingly.
Connectivity
Waterproof headphones come in both wired and wireless varieties. If you choose a wired pair of waterproof headphones, be sure to check the connector type to make sure it will fit your device. Most waterproof headphones use a standard headphone jack, but some brands use a different connector type.
If you choose a wireless pair of waterproof headphones, be sure to check the battery life and charging method. Many waterproof headphones have a shorter battery life than traditional headphones due to the added water protection.
Some models include a charging dock that can be used while the earbuds are still wet, but others do not. Make sure you have access to a USB port or an outlet if you choose a set of waterproof headphones without this feature.
Brand
There are many waterproof headphones on the market, but some brands are better than others. When choosing waterproof earbuds, it is important to also consider the company’s reputation for customer service in case you run into any issues with your purchase or waterproofing.
Some headphone manufacturers have a history of offering exceptional support in these cases.
Durability and Comfort
It is important to also consider the headphones’ durability. Waterproof headphones are typically more durable than regular headphones, but they can still be susceptible to damage if not treated properly.
It is important to consider the build quality and durability of the headphones when making your purchase. You want waterproof earbuds that will last through many showers without breaking down. Cheap headphones often have the low build quality and are not meant to be used frequently or in harsh environments like the shower.
Finally, you will want to consider the comfort of the waterproof earbuds. any waterproof earbuds come with different-sized ear tips to ensure a comfortable fit. Be sure to try on several pairs of waterproof headphones before making your purchase to make sure they are right for you.
Fit
You will also want to consider the fit of the headphones. Some waterproof headphones have a tight seal that can make them uncomfortable to wear for long periods of time. If this is a concern for you, be sure to find a pair of headphones with ear tips that offer a comfortable fit.
Another thing to keep in mind when shopping for waterproof headphones is how well they fit your ears. One of the main issues people have with waterproof headphones is that they don’t fit well and tend to fall out of people’s ears. Make sure to try on any pair of waterproof headphones before you buy them to make sure they fit well.
It is important to make sure they are comfortable in your ears. A waterproof headphone that fits securely can help prevent damage from occurring due to moisture entering the headphones.
Design
Waterproof headphones come in all shapes and sizes, so you can find a pair that matches your style. There are also different types of waterproofing available, such as nano-coating or hydrophobic coating. These waterproofing methods are designed to repel water and help protect the earbuds against moisture damage.
Price
Finally, you will want to consider the price when making your purchase. Waterproof headphones offer enhanced protection from moisture compared to regular headphones, but they also tend to be more expensive since their waterproofing can affect performance on some levels.
However, if waterproofness is important for you, then it might be worth exploring different brands or models until you find one that fits within your budget while still offering good enough quality in terms of audio abilities and comfortability.
Waterproof headphones can range in price from around $30 to $300. So, there is definitely a pair out there for everyone’s budget. You need to pick a pair that fits your budget and entails all the necessary features that fit your needs.
Warranty
When purchasing waterproof headphones, it is important to make sure that the product comes with a warranty. This will ensure that you are able to get a replacement or refund if something happens to your headphones while they are under warranty.
Accessories
Also, be sure to check what accessories come included with your waterproof headphones and how long each pair lasts before they need to be replaced. Most good-quality sets will include at least two pairs and can last up to several months before needing replacement due to heavy use or damage from moisture exposure.
When considering which waterproof headphones would best suit your needs, take all factors into account, including water protection type, comfort level, battery life/charging, brand, and included accessories. With so many great waterproof headphones on the market, you are sure to find a pair that is perfect for your everyday listening needs.
To aid your decision of choosing wireless headphones, below are some of the top picks that might be helpful in choosing which pair suits your needs the best.