Headphones for Working Out

If you exercise regularly, you might find that your own personal soundtrack is an asset with any workout routine. When choosing headphones, think about where you’ll be listening – indoors or outside.

Indoor exercise needs in-ear or closed headphones, which shut out noise and distraction. If you’re running outdoors, you need open headphones which allow you to hear traffic and other potential hazards. Ears are our early warning system. We rely on them for situational awareness. iPods don’t look cool when you’ve suddenly become a hood ornament on an articulated lorry because you couldn’t hear it coming up behind you.

Either way, your headphones need to be rugged, be sweat-proof, and have flexible cords for easy stow-away. When you buy headphones for exercise, go for durability, fit, and comfort.

Sennheiser PMX 80 Sport Mini Backband In-Ear Headphones (PMX80)

Optimised for MP3, iPod, iPhone, CD players and portable gaming systems, they weigh just 16 grammes. The rugged backband style allows a secure fit, and they will rinse clean after use under running water. Powerful, balanced sound reproduction with superb detail is accompanied by a reflective stripe for extra visibility and safety when running or exercising outdoors. This kit comes in a stunning sports grey and orange design, with a 2-year manufacturer’s warranty.

Klipsch-Image-S4

Klipsch is better known as a speaker maker than a manufacturer of headphones, but the Klipsch Image S4 earbud models are the best in-ear headphone option available at the price. These units offer stunningly clean sound and great comfort.

Shure-SE310

Shure’s SE310 earbuds are firmly established as one of the best in-ear headphones available. The company’s in-ear monitors are built with the same technology which professional musicians have been using on stage for years. As such, they sound incredible and block out a surprising amount of noise. Available in black or white.

One of the best headphones for running is the clip-on Koss KSC75. They offer excellent sound for the price and a lifetime guarantee ensures they can be replaced for free at any time, for any failure. For a more secure fit, behind the neck headphones work very well for running. The Sony MDR-G75LW is stunning to look at and sounds good. The retractable cord lets you adjust the cable length. The slightly more expensive but better sounding Sennheiser PMX100 has both a neckband and ear clips for an extremely secure fit.

So what do you listen to when you’re working out? I go with Father Ted on this one. If you’re feeling down, put on the theme from ‘Shaft’ and try to stay miserable. Can’t be done.

Filed under: Exercise Equipment by admin