Find the Best Wireless Earbuds to Keep You Motivated During Workouts

The right amount of motivation is necessary for any fitness routine. But how far can you really get without a killer playlist? No matter the exercise you choose, wireless earbuds are ideal. Whether you’re pumping iron to Iron Maiden or biking to Bach, you’ve probably felt the incredible power that music has during a workout.

In fact, research shows listening to upbeat music can create a positive mindset, putting you in the right mood to sweat it out. Another study found that people who listen to music on a treadmill increase their pace and distance without feeling more tired. Music might even help delay fatigue.

But with so many options out there, picking the right wireless earbuds is almost as hard as finding the best workout playlist.

How to find the best wireless earbuds for working out

Despite the way they’re marketed, workout earbuds are not one-size-fits-all, says Sareena Rama, a certified personal trainer and group fitness instructor in Orange County, CA. Keep these tips in mind when shopping for your own pair.

✔️ Consider the IP rating. For most people, sweat-resistance should be a “main priority,” Rama says. Waterproofing is measured by the IP (“ingress protection”) standard, which ranges from IPX0 for tech with no protection from liquids to IPX8 for devices that can be submerged deeper than 1 meter of water. IPX ratings are not permanent, so your headphones might become less water-resistant over time.

IPX4 is a great place to start, since the headphones will be rain- and sweat-resistant. Meanwhile, IPX6-rated devices can be rinsed in the sink, while IPX7-rated ones can be completely submerged in shallow water for half an hour (not that you’d want to do that, anyway). If you won’t be getting particularly sweaty, though, it’s fine if your wireless earbuds don’t have an IP rating.

✔️ Decide if you truly want no wires. Plenty of popular options are completely wireless. But others include a wire connecting just the buds, which comes in handy in a few common situations. Rama recommends going for a connecting wire if you’re embarking on particularly strenuous or sweaty workouts, like outdoor running. Otherwise, separate buds are just fine, as long as they stay secure in your ears.

✔️ Don’t sweat the battery life. “I personally think battery life only matters if your workouts are longer than 45 minutes,” Rama explains. A really great battery is a plus, but probably not a necessity unless you’re a cyclist, runner, or endurance athlete—it “shouldn’t be the most important factor” for more casual athletes, she advises.

Other nice features include multiple bud options, a charging case, and integration with your phone’s operating system. Now, it’s time to look for the best workout earbuds for you—check out 10 top-rated, expert-backed picks below.