Are you looking for a pair of headphones to ensure your music really motivates you in your workouts? Along with wireless earbuds, over-ear headphones have become increasingly popular in the gym due to their noise isolation and secure fit, helping you stay focused and in the zone. The right pair can make a huge impact on the productivity of your exercise.
In this article, we’ll explore the best over-ear headphones for working out. These options have all the features you need in a good pair of gym headphones, such as a comfortable fit and noise isolation.
Plus, because they’re not specifically designed for working out (not many are!), they’re suited to a variety of other applications, making them superb if you’re priority is the gym but you also want to be able to use them in other environments!
In a hurry?
Here are our three favourite over-ear headphones for use in the gym:
| JBL Tune 760NC Over-Ear Noise Cancelling Bluetooth Headphones | A sleek, low-cost solution with JBL’s Pure Bass Sound and up to 35 hours of battery life with ANC. | Check the current price |
| DALI IO-12 True Hi-Fi Wireless Headphones | Includes an IP52 rating, wind noise suppression, and an SMC magnet system. | Check the current price |
| Focal Bathys Wireless ANC Headphones | These headphones support 24bit/192kHz resolution and a CVC microphone for easy hands-free control. | Check the current price |
Why we’ve chosen these headphones
We’ve selected these over-ear headphones for how they perform in intense workout sessions. Our list covers a range of different users, from casual gym-goers to serious athletes, ensuring a range of options that cater to various needs and budgets.
Prices vary, but all provide excellent value for their features. We’ve focused on headphones that are comfortable to wear and stay put during movement.
Of course, sound quality was also a major factor. We’ve prioritised headphones with strong bass to keep you motivated, while still providing clear mids and highs. Additionally, these models offer noise isolation or cancellation, helping you stay focused by blocking out distractions.
Durability is also crucial. These headphones are built to withstand sweat and avoid the wear and tear of frequent use. Plus, they’re all wireless!
The best over-ear headphones for working out
1. JBL Tune 760NC Over-Ear Noise Cancelling Bluetooth Headphones
Key features
- 40mm drivers with Pure Bass Sound
- Up to 50-hours of battery life
- Compact, adjustable design
Pros
- Multi-Point connectivity lets you alternate between devices
- Two microphones allow for hands-free control
- Soft earpads provide a cosy listening experience
Cons
- Not as stable as many other options
For high-quality sound at a manageable price, the JBL Tune 760NC Over-Ear Noise Cancelling Bluetooth Headphones are a great choice.
The 40mm drivers deliver JBL’s signature Pure Bass Sound, providing rich, deep bass without compromising on the mids or highs. This is particularly great for workouts – that bass is the all-important factor for keeping up the pace of your reps or cardio!
The active noise cancellation is also great. It effectively blocks out any ambient noise in busy environments like gyms, allowing you to concentrate fully on your workout without any distractions.
Having two built-in microphones (which work alongside Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa) is a major bonus for workouts as they enable you to change the volume, skip songs, and play/pause tracks without interrupting your set!
On a single charge, the 760NC headphones offer up to 35 hours of playback with ANC activated and 50 hours without, so you’ll be able to make multiple visits to the gym without needing a power top-up. Bluetooth 5.0 provides Multi-Point Connectivity, allowing you to switch seamlessly between two Bluetooth devices and enjoy your favourite playlists without the clutter of wires.
Comfort-wise, the Tune 760NCs come with soft earpads and an adjustable headband for a snug fit that’s ideal for long gym sessions. They’re also available in four different colours, so you can find a style that suits you. It should be noted, however, that if your workout routine involves vigorous movement, you might need a more stable pair for activities like running.
2. DALI IO-12 True Hi-Fi Wireless Headphones
Key features
- IP52 water resistance rating
- SMC magnet system
- Wind noise suppression
Pros
- 50mm paper fibre cone drivers deliver a detailed sound
- Offers both wired and wireless playback
- Dual sound modes (Hi-Fi and Bass) allow for easy audio customisation
Cons
- High price point
The DALI IO-12 True Hi-Fi Wireless Headphones combine premium sound quality with practical features, making them ideal for those who take their workouts seriously. These headphones deliver incredible audio thanks to the 50mm paper fibre cone drivers and an efficient SMC magnet system, which significantly reduces distortion and eddy currents.
As with many of our selections, active noise cancellation is there to ensure all background noise is blocked out. The Wind Noise Suppression feature then comes in handy during outdoor exercises, ensuring that wind interference doesn’t disturb your listening experience.
These headphones feature dual sound modes – Hi-Fi and Bass. The Hi-Fi mode lets you enjoy the full richness and clarity of your music, while the Bass mode is perfect for adding extra depth and power to your beats, keeping you motivated during high-energy workouts.
With a battery life of up to 35 hours, the IO-12s can be used again and again for long workout sessions. And thanks they have an IP52 rating, offering protection against dust and dripping water. You also have the option of a wired connection or Bluetooth 5.2.
Designed for stability, the IO-12s stay securely in place even during intense activities like running, cycling, or lifting weights. The ergonomic design and soft, cushioned ear pads provide comfort for extended wear, so you can focus entirely on your performance without having to adjust your headphones.
3. Focal Bathys Wireless ANC Headphones
Key features
- 40mm aluminium/magnesium drivers
- Genuine leather and microfibre headband
- Three noise-cancellation modes
Pros
- USB DAC enables 24bit/192kHz resolution
- Long battery life gives you plenty of listening time
- Dual sound modes (Hi-Fi and Bass) allow for easy audio customisation
Cons
- Quite bulky in size
The Focal Bathys Wireless ANC Headphones feature 40mm aluminium/magnesium drivers, delivering high-resolution sound with remarkable clarity and minimal distortion.
The real leather headband and plush over-ear earpads provide exceptional comfort, making them ideal for extended use. However, this does make them quite bulky – but there’s a sleek case included to make them easier to carry!
The Bathys are equipped with three distinct noise-cancellation modes – Silent, Soft, and Transparency. This is a great feature to have as it allows you to tailor your headphones to your environment. In a gym, for example, you might want full noise cancellation but if you’re outdoors, you might want to hear some of your surroundings, such as traffic. Of course, there’s also Bluetooth 5.0 for wireless listening.
Thanks to Clear Voice Capture microphone technology, the headphones guarantee crystal-clear calls, making these headphones versatile enough for both music and communication. They’re also compatible with popular voice assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.
With up to 30 hours of battery life in Bluetooth ANC mode, the Bathys are built to last through multiple workout sessions. For even longer playtime, the USB DAC connection offers up to 42 hours and delivers 24-bit/192kHz audio resolution, perfect if you’re an audiophile and a gym goer.
4. V-Moda Crossfade 3 Wireless Over-Ear Headphones
Key features
- Extended frequency range
- Up to 30 hours of wireless battery life
- Custom EQ control via dedicated mobile app
Pros
- Excellent isolation with memory foam pads
- Wired and wireless Hi-Res playback options
- Foldable, durable and travel-ready design
Cons
-
On the larger side for casual portability
The Crossfade 3 Wireless are built for listeners who want full-bodied sound and versatility in equal measure. With support for high-resolution codecs and a wide frequency response, these headphones make the most of your music – whether you’re producing, DJing, or just listening on the move.
They build on the proven Crossfade 2 platform with refined audio across the spectrum. The low end is powerful without being overwhelming, mids come through clearly, and highs stay detailed even at louder volumes. If you want to push the sound further, the companion app lets you adjust the EQ to suit your preferences.
For everyday use, Bluetooth keeps things cable-free without sacrificing quality. Codec support includes high-definition standards, making them a strong pick for streaming and mobile playback. If you’re after the absolute best fidelity, switching to wired mode unlocks true Hi-Res Audio.
The design suits both long sessions and life on the go. Large memory foam cushions offer strong isolation, while helping to avoid overheating during extended use. The foldable hinge and durable headband make these easy to travel with, whether you’re heading to a gig or just commuting.
With up to 30 hours of playback on a full charge, they’re ready for long days. And if aesthetics matter, the customisable shield system gives you control over the look of your headphones. Ideal for anyone serious about both sound and style.
5. Cleer Enduro ANC Over-Ear Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones
Key features
- Up to 60 hours of battery life
- Ironless Driver technology
- Bluetooth 5.0 with AAC and Apt X HD
Pros
- Customise the audio with the Cleer Connect app
- Google Fast Pair 2.0 allows for seamless pairing with your Android devices
- Sleek earpads and an adjustable headband enable comfy listening
Cons
- Active noise cancellation isn’t the best
While not as cheap as others in this list, we think you’ll get your money’s worth with the Cleer Enduro ANC Over-Ear Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones.
They’re equipped with custom 40mm Ironless Driver technology, delivering a high-resolution sound with crisp clarity and deep bass, ideal for thumping house music and energetic pop songs.
While active noise cancellation does a good job of reducing ambient noise, it’s not as effective as that of other headphones on this list. Having said that, the Enduro headphones’ large ear pads allow for passive noise isolation to bring further clarity to your music. The sleek earpads are also very comfy to wear and, along with an adjustable headband, ensure that the headphones stay firmly fixed during a workout session.
Battery life is another strong suit, offering up to 60 hours of playback – plenty for several days of workouts. And if you’re running low on power, a quick five-minute charge gives you an extra two hours of playback, so you’re never left without your music.
The Cleer Connect app allows you to customise the noise-cancelling and EQ settings, tailoring the sound to your preferences. Ideal for Andriod users, these headphones also include Google Fast Pair 2.0 for instant wireless connectivity. But if you’re not an Android user, you can still pair the Enduro ANCs with various devices thanks to Bluetooth 5.0.
6. Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S3 Wireless Headphones
Key features
- Adaptive noise cancelling with 8-microphone array
- 40mm biocellulose drivers
- aptX Lossless & Adaptive streaming support
Pros
- Refined, immersive audio performance
- Comfortable fit for extended listening
- Strong call clarity and app-based control
Cons
-
Larger size may not suit all users
The Px7 S3 headphones are powered by 40mm biocellulose drivers, delivering a wide soundstage with natural balance. Vocals stay warm, bass is solid, and every track comes through with impressive clarity.
For blocking out the world, the adaptive noise cancelling uses eight microphones and advanced processing to adjust on the fly. Whether you’re working in a busy café or trying to relax during travel, distractions are kept to a minimum without needing to constantly tweak settings.
Calls are another area where these excel. The Px7 S3 captures your voice clearly while reducing outside noise, making conversations easy to follow even in challenging environments. It’s particularly useful for remote meetings or keeping in touch on the go.
Streaming is smooth and consistent thanks to aptX Adaptive and Lossless codec support. Whether you’re gaming, watching films, or listening to music, the connection adapts to your device and network to maintain high-resolution audio without interruption.
The re-engineered fit also makes a real difference. Slimmer earcups, memory foam cushions and a refined headband ensure the Px7 S3 stays comfortable during longer sessions. Physical buttons make playback control straightforward, and the companion app gives access to a custom EQ and streaming features.
If you’re looking for premium wireless headphones that combine sound quality, usability and comfort, the Px7 S3 is a strong all-rounder for both work and downtime.
7. Audio-Technica M50xBT2 Bluetooth Headphones
Key features
- 45mm drivers with extended frequency response
- 50-hour battery life with fast charging
- Dual microphones with sidetone and voice assistant support
Pros
- Studio-grade sound in wireless format
- Multipoint pairing and custom EQ control
- Durable, comfortable over-ear design
Cons
-
No active noise cancellation
The ATH-M50xBT2 takes Audio-Technica’s studio heritage and brings it into the wireless world with smart upgrades. These headphones use the same 45mm drivers as the much-loved M50x, providing a balanced, high-fidelity sound with strong bass, clear mids and smooth highs. An internal amplifier and AK4331 DAC enhance the detail even further, making them ideal for critical listening on the go.
With dual beamforming microphones and sidetone circuitry, call quality is reliable and natural. You can hear yourself while speaking, reducing the need to raise your voice. The built-in support for Alexa, Google Assistant and Siri also makes it easy to manage your day hands-free.
Battery life, however, is where these shine. You’ll get up to 50 hours of playback on a full charge, and with USB-C rapid charging, a quick 10-minute top-up gives around three hours of use. For longer sessions or when the battery runs low, a 1.2m wired cable is included.
Connectivity is flexible, too. Multipoint pairing lets you stay connected to two Bluetooth devices at once. The A-T Connect app offers control over EQ settings, latency mode and other preferences, helping you tailor the sound to your needs.
Comfort is covered by soft, pro-grade earpads and a robust headband. The over-ear design blocks out external noise naturally, making these a practical option for travel, work or casual listening. Ideal for anyone who values sound quality and long-lasting performance in a wireless format.
How to choose the best over-ear headphones for working out
The best over-ear headphones for working out are closed-back, rather than open-back.
Closed-back headphones offer excellent noise isolation, which helps you stay focused by blocking out distractions. If you’re running or cycling outdoors, look for a model with an “environment mode” as this allows some external sounds, like approaching cars, to filter through, ensuring you stay aware of your surroundings.
Fit and stability are also crucial. Look for headphones with an ergonomic design and adjustable headbands to ensure they stay in place during intense workouts. Some models also feature ear cups with secure, cushioned pads that grip your ears gently but firmly.
Noise cancellation is another factor. While it can be useful for indoor workouts, particularly in a busy gym, it’s worth balancing this with the need for awareness when outdoors.
Lastly, it seems obvious but you make sure you consider the sound quality. A balanced frequency response is key, with captivating highs to keep vocals and instruments distinct, and a solid bass response for that extra push during workouts.
A flat or slightly boosted bass can also enhance your music without overwhelming the other frequencies, giving you the energy boost needed to power through your weightlifting or treadmill sessions.
The benefits of over-ear headphones
Over-ear headphones are particularly great for their comfort and sound quality.
Their larger ear cups with cushioned pads provide a better fit than over-ear headphones or earphones, making them ideal for extended wear during long workout sessions.
Unlike smaller headphones, they don’t press directly into your ears, reducing discomfort over time.
They typically house larger drivers, so you’re more likely to hear a much more detailed sound than many in-ear headphones. This enhances the richness of your music, making it more engaging and enjoyable while you exercise.
Over-ear headphones also excel at cancelling out background noise. Many models now feature active noise cancellation (ANC), which further reduces ambient noise. This can help you maintain focus during your workout, whether you’re in a busy gym or navigating noisy outdoor environments.
Headphones to avoid when working out
To make your decision easier, here are two things to avoid when shopping for gym headphones:
- Open-back headphones: These allow ambient noise to seep in, which can be distracting and diminish sound quality in busy environments
- Wired headphones: Their cables can easily tangle or disconnect during movement, causing unnecessary interruptions
FAQs
Are over-ear headphones good for the gym?
Over-ear headphones are great for the gym. They offer excellent sound quality and noise isolation. However, they can feel bulky and may slip during vigorous movement, making them less practical for high-intensity exercises.
Can you use over-ear headphones for running?
Over-ear headphones can be used for running at a moderate pace if you’re on flat terrain. They offer superior sound quality and comfort, but they can feel quite unstable during faster runs or trail running.
How do I make sure my headphones don’t fall off while running?
To prevent over-ear headphones from slipping while running, ensure they have a snug fit by adjusting the headband and ear cups. Use a sweatband or cap to add extra friction, and consider models with a tighter clamping force. Choosing lightweight designs can also reduce movement during runs.
Final thoughts
Choosing the best over-ear headphones for working out all comes down to your personal needs and the type of exercise you’ll need them for. We hope our list has helped you find the right pair for you!
For further reading, check out our guides to open-back vs. closed-back headphones and passive vs. active noise cancelling. Or if you’re after some earphones, have a look at our favourite budget wireless earbuds.
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