The 9 Best Waterproof Headphones for Rainy Runs and More Wet Workouts

For many, music can be a key motivator during a workout. A catchy beat can pump you up to break a PR, encourage you to keep spinning during a cycling session, and it can even keep you punching on rhythm during a boxing class. But when it comes to water sports or even drizzly days, adding a little moisture to your exercise routine usually has you stuck inside or without music. Any runner who gets caught in the rain knows that not having tunes pumping in your ear can really make your workout drag. Enter: waterproof headphones, a game-changer when it comes to your training routine.

When choosing the right first think of the level of water protection needed. There is a difference between waterproof and water-resistant. A swimmer will need headphones that can be completely submerged in water, while a super sweaty runner may only need a water-resistant style. That being said, Bluetooth connectivity can be disrupted underwater, which is why many swimmers and triathletes consider purchasing a swim MP3 player set. (Related: The Best Running Headphones, According to People Who Run a Crapton)

Yet another aspect to consider is comfort. You want your waterproof headphones to fit nicely with your swim cap, goggles, sunglasses, or bike helmet. MP3 players will most likely attach to your goggles, while other waterproof models might wrap around your neck or be designed as an earbud. You'll also want to keep in mind how easy it is to stop your music, in case you have to chat with a lifeguard or be tuned into traffic around you.

Whether you're a swimmer, triathlete, or are just looking for a solid pair of waterproof headphones to get you through rainy runs or bike rides, these highly-rated waterproof headphones are perfect for water sports and sweaty workouts. (Related: The Best Wireless Headphones for Working Out and Every Day)

Best Affordable Option: Jaybird Tarah Wireless In-Ear Headphones

BEST BUY

Durable, wireless, waterproof headphones that have a fantastic sound quality for less than $50? Yes, they exist. The Tarah has a 6-hour battery life and is water-and sweat-proof. The minimalist silicone design will make you forget you are even wearing them. True audiophiles will appreciate that these are compatible with the Jaybird app, so you can configure the earbuds more to your liking and save your personal settings.

"These are crisp and clear, nice deep bass after adjusting the EQ in the accompanying app," wrote one reviewer. "It gives you a 5 band EQ to adjust to get what fits your genre of music. It also gives you presets if you listen to multiple types of music like myself. The app is a breeze to manipulate and control. Pairing them was a simple process."

Buy It: Jaybird Tarah Wireless In-Ear Headphones, $50, bestbuy.com

Most Versatile: Beats By Dr. Dre Powerbeats High-Performance Wireless Earphones

BEST BUY

While you can't take these babies for a swim, they are water-resistant and will survive even the most intense workout. The superb sound quality and hook design make them a comfy, easy-to-use, versatile pick for everything from workouts to Zoom calls. They also have a quick-charging battery with a 15-hour life and can sync with Siri on iOS devices for voice commands. (Related: Noise-Cancelling Headphones That Block *Everything* Out)

A shopper said: "These are well worth the hype… these have been incredible for meetings, workouts (HIIT, 5-mile trail runs, etc), and listening to podcasts while cooking. Really sleek and undetectable which is perfect for work calls."

Buy It: Beats by Dre Drew Powerbeats High-Performance Wireless Earphones, $150, bestbuy.com

Best for Swimmers: i360 Wireless Swimming Underwater Waterproof 8GB MP3 Player

i360

Waterproof up to 9 feet and with 8GB of memory, this MP3 holds up to 2,400 songs and allows up to 10 hours of playback. Plus, it's easy to play, pause, shuffle, and control the volume with just a tap on one side of the earbud. Not a swimmer? You can run, go for a brisk walk, or tackle your outdoor workout without a cord getting in your way.

"I have been swimming to try and lose weight, but it is so boring," wrote a customer. "Not anymore, with my Fitbit to count laps and this waterproof MP3 player I now can lose myself in whatever I feel like listening to and have doubled the number of laps that I can swim."

Buy It: i360 Wireless Swimming Underwater Waterproof 8GB MP3 Player, $56, i360online.com

Best for Rainy Runs: iLive True Wireless Waterproof Earbuds

KOHLS

The hook design of these wireless earbuds is snug and keeps the pods in place, whether on a light jog or long run. These waterproof headphones use Bluetooth 5.0, which has improved range and faster speed so you can jam out without draining power. Bonus: They're less than $100, so not too terribly hard on your wallet.

"The sound quality is amazing and very loud," raved one reviewer about the waterproof earbuds. "It's amazing for hearing music or talking on the phone. This product is better than expected, and I love it."

Buy It: iLive True Wireless Waterproof Earbuds, $60, kohls.com

Best for Deep Dives: H2O Audio Surge S Waterproof Headphones

SWIM OUTLET

While they might look like your average headphones, these are the most waterproof in the group. The earbuds will work in 12 feet of water and can plug into your device when in a waterproof holder. The waterproof headphones also come with eight silicone tips, so you get a personalized fit for your ear. Just keep in mind that it's an old fashioned jack, so you might need a converter for your specific smartphone. (Related: The Best Swimming Workouts for Every Fitness Level)

"This headset combined with H2O custom earbuds is a winner," said a buyer. "I have been through many waterproof headsets, none with the paired earbuds really stayed in my ears or kept a watertight fit. If you are serious about your swim workouts and can't find a good fit I highly recommend the custom route. It's well worth the money."

Buy It: H2O Audio Surge S Waterproof Headphones, $50, swimoutlet.com

Best High Tech Waterproof Headphones: Jabra Elite 75t True Wireless In-Ear Headphones

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If you are looking for a super techy option, you've found it. These high-quality wireless earbuds might not be the pair you take for a few laps, but they will survive exposure to moisture due to sweaty workouts or if you get stuck in a sudden downpour. What sets these apart from the rest is that the earbuds have a precision heart rate monitor that connects with an integrated app to track your training, and it can provide real-time personal coaching during your sweat session through the earbud.

One reviewer wrote: "They've far exceeded my expectations. I wanted completely cordless and water-resistant, and they delivered. Sound quality and battery life have been great. I've been on 2 hr runs and they haven't missed a beat. I would highly recommend them for someone active. I was hesitant but they lock into your ears and don't move!"

Buy It: Jabra Elite 75t True Wireless In-Ear Headphones, $180, bestbuy.com

Best Sound Quality: Jaybird Vista True Wireless In-Ear

BEST BUY

The waterproof IPX 7 construction (translation: these waterproof headphones were tested for water immersion for up to 3 feet and 3 inches for 30 minutes) makes these a great all-around wireless option. Ideal for athletes, these waterproof headphones also perform nicely when you want to dabble in lap swimming. The lightweight and compact design ensure they comfortably stay put in your ear. There is also no need for a daily charge, thanks to 16 hours of battery life.

"The sound is incredible, the new 6mm milled drivers are lighter, but still deliver an impressive audio experience," according to one customer's review. "Calls sound great, with very clear reception. Music sounds as true to life as possible. I love it when you are using a headset, and the sound is just as spacious and fulfilling as if you were in a state of the art theater."

Buy It: Jaybird Vista True Wireless In-Ear, $180, bestbuy.com

Best Around-the-Neck Option: Sony Walkman NW-WS413 Wearable MP3

Toss these sleek headphones in your beach bag with no fear, since they're resistant to salt and freshwater for up to 2 meters. This MP3 player features 4GB of storage, great sound quality, 12 hours of battery life, and a comfy, ergonomically designed neckband that'll stay put whether you're swimming, running, playing beach volleyball, or walking the dog. (Related: The Beach-Proof Beauty Hacks You Need to Try)

A daily swimmer who was trying to find waterproof headphones rejoiced that these finally hit the mark: "The headset is good, it works perfect underwater."

Buy It: Sony Walkman NW-WS413 Wearable MP3, $100, bestbuy.com

Best Non-Earbud Option: Finis Duo Underwater Bone Conduction

SWIM OUTLET

If you find earbuds uncomfortable or are prone to losing them, this unique style could be your solution. The Finis Duo attaches to your goggles and sits on your cheekbones, rather than over or in your ears. With a waterproof rating of IPX8 (meaning it can undergo up to three meters for 30 mins), the sound quality of these buds is actually clearer when submerged, creating a surround sound effect. Your playlist becomes the perfect backdrop to your freestyle or butterfly strokes.

"I really didn't expect this to work, as I wear heavy-duty earplugs and a swim cap, but I was astounded at the quality of the sound!" said a shopper. "It makes my workout so much more pleasurable."

Buy It: Finis Duo Underwater Bone Conduction, $140, swimoutlet.com