If you’re anything like me, it’s often easier to find clarity during a long run around the park or while navigating an arbitrary route up a climbing wall than it is to make sense of your own thoughts and feelings.
Movement demands gear that keeps up. As someone who’s into all kinds of sports, I’ve learned this the hard way – mid-climb, covered in chalk, or trying to reach a 5K personal best. The point is that you don’t want your headphones falling out or breaking on you.
York’s running community is huge… and vocal. I’ve had countless chats about what actually matters when it comes to sports – and music is a big motivator.
To that end, if you’re a runner, having the right headphones is super important. The best running headphones are ones that fit securely and comfortably, have a long battery life, provide awareness of your surroundings, and, of course, give you audio that keeps you moving when motivation dips.
So, whether you’re training for a half marathon, squeezing in a 5K before work, or just trying to make peace with cardio, here’s a list of the best, most suitable headphones on the market.
In a hurry?
Need the best of the best? Here are our top three headphones for running:
| Sennheiser Sport In-Ear True Wireless | Excellent sound quality and in-ear stability, fully customisable audio profile, with touch controls onboard. | Check the current price |
| Shure AONIC 215 True Wireless | Great in-ear stability, thanks to the over-the-ear hook and expanding foam ear tips. | Check the current price |
| JBL Tune Beam True Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds | IP54-rated to protect them against sweat, rain, and dust; lightweight, with ambient-aware modes. | Check the current price |
Why we’ve chosen these headphones
These headphones were chosen based on a mix of personal experience and customer feedback from my years working in audio retail. That background gave me a solid sense of what works for most people, alongside an understanding of what dedicated runners tend to prioritise.
I’ve paid close attention to long-term comfort, durability, and ease of use, all crucial when headphones are going to be put through their paces on a regular basis.
Safety-conscious features are also important. It’s easy to get lost in your music while running, but if you’re completely cut off from your surroundings, it can put you at risk. So, features like ambient awareness modes and secure fits that don’t shift mid-run are important.
In short, the key priorities here are comfort, fit, sound quality, usability, and listening modes that suit both safety and practical application.
The best running headphones
1. Sennheiser Sport In-Ear True Wireless Headphones
Key features
- Adaptable acoustic modes (open or closed)
- IP54-rated splash, dust and sweat resistance
- Up to 27 hours total battery life
Pros
- Secure fit thanks to the changeable tips and the “wingtip” design
- Clear, punchy sound with strong bass presence
- Ambient awareness option – ideal for outdoor running
Cons
- Bulky charging case compared to some rivals
The Sennheiser Sport True Wireless are my top pick for a wireless in-ear headphone, not just for running or climbing, but for almost any sport. What sets them apart is the internal wingtip design. Instead of relying on external hooks or bulky attachments, the wingtip anchors inside the ear, creating a more discreet and secure fit.
It tucks neatly under the antihelix, the curved ridge just above your ear canal, which provides a natural locking point. This makes the earphones far less prone to shifting, even with head movement, sweat, or wind resistance. The result is a fit that feels stable but never intrusive.
These headphones also come with open and closed ear adapter sets, giving you the choice between greater awareness or passive isolation depending on your environment. You can further tailor the sound through the Sennheiser app, which offers EQ control and firmware updates.
Sound quality is fantastic, with a dynamic and balanced profile that brings real energy to your runs. Battery life is excellent too, offering nine hours in the buds and 18 more from the case. For anyone who needs a reliable fit, versatile features, and consistent performance over long sessions, these are a great option.
IP54-rated, they’ll handle sweat, dust, and light rain without issue. The controls are easy to use mid-run, and pairing is straightforward with Bluetooth 5.2. They’re not overloaded with features, but everything included feels purposeful. Just a solid, well-executed pair built with active use in mind.
Nothing but good things to say, honestly.
2. Shure AONIC 215 True Wireless Earphones
Key features
- Detachable design with MMCX connectors
- Sound Isolating™ technology blocks up to 37 dB of noise
- IPX4-rated water resistance
Pros
- Secure, over-ear hook fit – ideal for active use
- Rich, studio-inspired sound signature
- Can be upgraded with other Shure earphone models
Cons
- The foam tips can take a bit of getting used to ( I’m not a huge fan but can appreciate them)
The Shure AONIC 215 have a simpler design than most, as they don’t have a lot of the software bells and whistles that, say, the Sennheisers or B&W options later on the list do. They do, however, have a more mechanical approach to their audio quality and isolation aspects.
The AONICs make use of the classic over-the-ear wraparound design that is excellent for in-ear stability, but they also make use of Shure’s classic expandable memory foam ear tips, giving them an extremely secure and comfortable fit. Personally, I don’t like the foam tips, as I find them a little stifling or suffocating in my ears, but I appreciate that I have weird ear canals, so silicone tips are more my thing.
The sound quality is fantastic. If you’ve ever used Shure IEMs for anything in the past, the sound quality is near enough the same level of excellence – full range, with exceptional clarity and bottom-end punch to give you a nice, well-rounded sound.
They also use the same MMCX connector system as Shure’s Pro gear, which means you can detach the earphones from the wireless module and use them with a wired cable or upgrade to a different Shure model entirely. It’s a clever bit of modular design that gives them more long-term value. For anyone after a secure fit, solid build, and proper sound without extra faff, these hold their own really well.
3. JBL Tune Beam True Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds
Key features
- Bluetooth 5.3 with independent earbud streaming
- Active Noise Cancelling with Smart Ambient modes
- IP54-rated for water and dust resistance
Pros
- Punchy bass with JBL Pure Bass sound
- Long battery life: up to 48 hours total
- Secure, ergonomic fit with stem-style housing
Cons
- Touch controls can be overly sensitive
The JBL Tune Beam True Wireless are a classic choice, at least by the running community of York. “Back in’t day”, these were always a nice, easy option to opt for, as they ticked a lot of boxes without being too expensive.
The fact that they’re lightweight, offer both noise cancelling and ambient modes for gym and outside running, and have 10 – 12 hours of play time in the earphones before needing a charge in the case truly makes them an excellent option, not just for sports but for general life, striking the balance between running earphones and lifestyle wonderfully.
Another reason these have stayed popular is the comfort. The fit is snug without being intrusive, and the short-stem design helps them stay in place without pressing too hard on the ear. They’re IP54-rated too, so a bit of rain or sweat isn’t going to bother them. For calls, they handle voice clarity well with their four-microphone setup, and JBL’s VoiceAware lets you adjust how much of your own voice you hear.
Whether you’re running laps, walking the dog, or just commuting, the Beam deliver solid performance in a lightweight, low-fuss package that does what you need.
The app support is worth a mention too, giving you access to EQ settings and firmware updates if you want to tweak things to your liking. They’re not flashy, but they’ve stayed relevant by doing all the important stuff well. Easy to live with, and easy to recommend for everyday use.
4. Sennheiser CX True Wireless In-Ear Earbuds
Key features
- TrueResponse 7mm dynamic drivers with built-in EQ and Bass Boost
- Up to 27 hours of battery life with charging case
- Passive noise cancellation with ergonomic, closed-fit design
Pros
- Excellent sound detail with customisable tuning via app
- Comfortable, secure fit with multiple ear tip sizes
- Splash resistant (IPX4) for light rain and gym use
Cons
- No active noise cancellation
The Sennheiser CX True Wireless are another one of those options that weren’t designed specifically for sport, but still manage to hold up pretty well. I tend to think of these as the stripped-back sibling to the Sennheiser Sport True Wireless – you’re getting a similar audio profile and design, just without the wingtips or the switchable open/closed acoustic modes.
Even so, they stay surprisingly secure thanks to the silicone tips. You get four sizes in the box (XS to L), and with a good fit, you get decent passive noise reduction without being completely shut off. That slight natural leak actually helps if you’re running outdoors, letting just enough sound through so you’re still aware of things like traffic or passers-by.
There’s no ANC or ambient mode, but for this price point, that’s not unexpected. Instead, you can tailor the sound to your liking via the Sennheiser Smart Control app. There’s a built-in EQ and a bass boost if you want more punch during workouts. The overall sound is clear and full, with the slightly warm, energetic tuning that Sennheiser does well.
Probably not one for HIIT or high-impact sessions, but for general running, gym use, or just day-to-day listening, they’re a lightweight and reliable choice that don’t try to be anything they’re not.
5. Cleer Goal Earbuds
Key features
- IPX5 sweatproof and water-resistant design
- 6-hour battery life, with 14 extra hours from the case
- Lightweight, open-fit ergonomic shape
Pros
- Comfortable for long sessions and sensitive ears
- Simple, low-profile design for active use
- Clear sound with good call performance
Cons
- If you don’t like the wingtip/fin design, these are not the ones for you.
If you like the wingtip design, the Cleer Goals are for you. Their large, exaggerated wingtip is designed to hook under your antihelix, following the channel from its peak to the base, helping to ensure they stay securely in your ears.
There are no ANC features built into these – akin to the Shure AONICs – however, they have an extremely lightweight design, which eases fatigue on the antihelix.
Great for running, the onboard controls save you from stopping or slowing to manage your media on the move.
The Cleer Goals are a great all-around, lightweight choice – no frills, but no real detriments, so long as you like that wing/fin design.
Sound-quality-wise, these hold up well. The sound isn’t overly rich or bass-heavy, but clear and balanced enough for both music and podcasts. The tuning leans neutral, which suits casual listening and doesn’t fatigue over time. With IPX5 water resistance and a total battery life of 20 hours, including the case, they’re well suited to daily runs, gym sessions, or just general use without drawing much attention to themselves.
6. Cleer Arc II Sport True Wireless Earbuds
Key features
- Open-ear design with flexible ear-hooks
- IPX5 water and sweat resistance
- 16.2mm neodymium drivers with aptX support
Pros
- Keeps you aware of your surroundings during runs
- Secure and comfortable for long workouts
- Head-gesture controls for hands-free use
Cons
- Open design limits passive noise isolation
Cleer Audio have a lot of options for sports-focused earphones, and the Arc II Sport, as the name suggests, holds up to that ethos and works in a slightly different way than the other earphone options on this list.
There’s no element that directly sits in your ear – these are designed to hang next to your ears and emit sound openly into the air, which you then hear due to proximity to your ear. It’s a unique design that offers little to no isolation, as your ear is exposed to the world, but with a speaker suspended nearby.
This, as mentioned, is not great for isolation, but it’s fantastic for situational awareness, as you are not trapped in your isolated world; you are still present, able to hear everything. The experience of using these is akin to bone-conducting headphones or Sony’s experimental open-back in-ears they made, in that you can hear your music clearly, but you can also hear everything around you. It takes some getting used to.
This makes them excellent for running in populated or busy areas, where you will want to have the situational awareness to hear what’s going on around you.
One extra thing to mention is the case, which includes UV sterilisation to help keep things a bit more hygienic between uses. It’s a small touch, but a nice one if you’re using them daily. Overall, they’re a smart, purpose-built option for staying alert without sacrificing your soundtrack.
7. Bowers & Wilkins Pi6 Wireless Bluetooth Noise-Cancelling Earphones
Key features
- 12mm bio-cellulose drivers
- Adaptive noise cancellation with a three-mic setup per earbud
- Bluetooth 5.4 with aptX Adaptive and multipoint support
Pros
- Exceptional sound with strong bass and crisp detail
- Premium build and comfort with secure fit
- Clear call quality and intelligent ANC performance
Cons
- No wireless charging support on the case
The B&W Pi6 hold up well as running headphones, especially if you’re after something that feels a bit more refined and usable beyond training sessions. They’re compact and minimal in design, and they sit fairly naturally in the ear, but they do protrude slightly more than some of the others in this list.
That slight outward profile means the centre of balance sits just a touch further from your head, which can lead to them working loose during high-impact movement. If you’re doing HIIT or anything jump-heavy, they might need the odd readjustment. For regular running, commuting, or more relaxed sessions, they’re solid.
They also have features that suit general lifestyle use. You’ve got adaptive noise cancelling that adjusts to your surroundings automatically, and a set of microphones that handle calls pretty well. It’s not the most intense ANC out there, but it’s good enough to take the edge off distractions without cutting you off from your environment entirely – great for louder gym environs.
Sound quality is a definite strong point. There’s real clarity here without things feeling clinical, which is what I’ve come to expect from Bowers & Wilkins, while the low end has enough weight to keep music feeling energetic. Battery life is decent too – eight hours in the buds and another 16 from the case – so plenty of juice to see you through the session.
They don’t support wireless charging, which is a bit of a miss in my opinion, but if you’re looking for a set that can handle your runs and then transition smoothly into the rest of your day, these are a winner.
8. Sennheiser IE 100 Pro Wireless In-Ear Monitors
Key features
- Detachable Bluetooth and wired connection options
- AptX Low Latency for sync with video and audio
- Studio-grade 10mm drivers for accurate monitoring
Pros
- Secure over-ear fit with memory wire stability
- Clear, balanced sound with strong passive isolation
- Modular design allows wired or wireless use
Cons
- Not ideal for high-movement workouts or HIIT
The Sennheiser IE 100 Pro Wireless are a bit of a hybrid entry. They borrow a lot from the world of live performance and stage monitoring, which makes sense given their in-ear monitor (IEM) origins. Much like the Shure AONIC 215s, they use a classic over-ear cable wrap design and a fairly deep insertion fit that’s geared more towards stability and isolation than lifestyle convenience.
Where the Shure’s lean into a foam-tip seal and chunkier build, the IE 100 Pro keeps things slightly more compact and lightweight, especially in the clear finish.
That said, they’re best suited to runs, long walks, or static gym sessions. The fit is secure, but it’s not the kind of anchored, antihelix-locking hold you get from wingtips or fins, so for dynamic movements like HIIT or circuit training, they can shift a touch – not enough to fall out, but enough to be a distraction.
Where they excel is sound. The dynamic drivers are tuned with a warm, clear profile that avoids harshness without losing detail.
You get a lot of clarity and balance, and the aptX low-latency connection keeps things tight for video or real-time use. Ten hours of battery life is more than enough for most daily use, and they can convert to wired mode too if needed. A good choice for someone after a pro-grade earphone that can handle workouts – just not the most frantic ones.
9. JBL Live 770NC Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones
Key features
- True Adaptive Noise Cancelling
- Up to 65 hours of battery
- JBL Signature Sound with app-based EQ controls
Pros
- Lightweight and foldable for easy travel
- Comfortable fit for long listening sessions
- Seamless switching with multi-point Bluetooth
Con
- Not the most stable option for high-movement workouts
The JBL Live 770NC are an excellent all-rounder, both for casual listening and for more active use. What stands out most for me is the weight – they have this oddly satisfying feel that’s both reassuring and unrestrictive, never feeling heavy or fatiguing during longer sessions.
The one drawback, at least for me, is the fit. I’ve got a fairly narrow head, so there’s quite a bit of space between the top of my head and the rigid arch of the headband. Think Doctor Who Cyberman.
Still, that flat, extended headband is surprisingly comfortable once in place and doesn’t shift much when you’re on the move. A decent clamping force and moderately deep ear cups help keep them secure on your head.
I also appreciate that, being made from light ABS plastic, if they do fall off, they tend to bounce rather than shatter into a million pieces… don’t ask how I know.
The ANC algorithm is more than capable, and the ambient passthrough mode is genuinely useful, especially if you’re running in busier areas. Safety and awareness are always worth factoring in. With tactile buttons and voice control available, you can manage playback or take calls without having to fiddle mid-run. They strike a solid balance between smart features and real-world usability.
10. JBL Tune 770NC Wireless Over-Ear Headphones
Key features
- Adaptive noise cancellation
- Up to 70 hours of battery life
- Multi-point Bluetooth connectivity
Pros
- Lightweight, foldable design is travel friendly
- Quick-charge adds 3 hours in 5 minutes
- Customisable EQ via the JBL Headphones app
Cons
- Clamp pressure might not suit longer sessions for all users
Moving on to a headphone option – which will, understandably, be more cumbersome for running – the JBL 770NCs offer a few advantages over typical earphones. As an over-ear design, they naturally provide greater acoustic isolation and, with their ANC switched on, can place you in a more secluded listening environment. This helps take the edge off questionable gym playlists and the usual background noise from gym bros.
The clamping force and fit of an over-ear design mean that you don’t have to worry about them falling out of your ears, and potentially losing them mid-run, which is a nightmare. Once they’re on, so long as you have properly adjusted the headband, these shouldn’t be going anywhere anytime soon.
Plus, the fact that these are some of the lighter over-ears on the market currently means that, whether you’re running steady long distances or sprinting in HIIT activities, these will be comfortable. Easy onboard buttons with tactile markings mean that mid-run adjustments are easy to pull off.
The 70-hour battery life is a great addition, as it gives you peace of mind that you shouldn’t be caught short while out and about, provided you charge them semi-regularly. But even then, quick charge is a thing, so… no excuse!
11. Cleer Enduro ANC Over-Ear Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones
Key features
- Adaptive active noise cancellation
- Up to 60 hours of battery life
- Customisable sound via Cleer+ app
Pros
- Long battery life is ideal for regular training or commuting
- Over-ear fit offers consistent isolation and stability
- Folds flat for easy storage and portability
Cons
- Slightly bulky compared to in-ear options for running
The Cleer Enduro are similar to the JBLs above, but they’re slightly heavier (280g vs. the JBL’s 232g) and a little bulkier. Is that a bad thing? No, not really, as they do hold up to sports scrutiny quite well.
I’d say the JBL 770s are great all-around running headphones, while the Cleer Enduro are more for gym-based running, as their noise-cancelling algorithm is objectively a little more effective than JBL’s.
The head pinch on the Cleers isn’t quite as strong as the 770’s, which again lends the Enduro to that flat, indoor running setting. If I keep drawing the comparisons, the Cleer are way more relaxed and lifestyle-focused than anything sports-oriented, but like I say, they hold up under scrutiny for running. Again, HIIT and sprinting would be a no-go in headphones of any kind, but if you’re getting your 10K training in, these 100% work.
The app functionality is a nice touch to personalise the sound profile of the headphones. Should you be someone who likes to run to hard techno, you can boost the bass frequencies to your liking. Or, if you’re more of a yacht-rock-long-distance-jaunt kind of runner, you can mellow things out to your liking. Very versatile and adaptable, considering it’s not what they were made for.
12. JBL Tune Flex Ghost Edition Noise Cancelling Earbuds
Key features
- Active Noise Cancelling with Smart Ambient mode
- IPX4 water and sweat resistance
- Transparent Ghost Edition design with swappable ear tips
Pros
- Flexible fit options with both open and sealing ear tips
- Lightweight and comfortable for longer sessions
- VoiceAware mic tuning works well for phone and video calls
Cons
- Open-fit design may reduce stability during more dynamic running
The JBL Tune Flex weren’t originally going to make this list, largely due to a personal bias against earphones that don’t sit properly in my ears. However, they come with alternate tips, so you’re not entirely reliant on the “wedge it in and hope” tactic that works for most people. Add to that the fact they come in that late-’90s/early-’00s see-through plastic design – reminiscent of the old Gameboy I had – and my interest was piqued.
Beyond the nostalgia and the pleasant surprise regarding the fit, these actually hold up quite well for running.
As for water and sweat resistance, these earphones show a bit more runner-focused thought than many others on the list, even if few make a direct point of highlighting it. Like the rest, they’ll withstand sweat – provided you look after them.
The biggest plus, though, is their weight. In the ear, they’re light enough that there’s little chance of fatigue over time. The trade-off is that this same lightness makes them easier to dislodge, especially with a knock or sudden movement.
So, I’d probably limit these to city running, the gym, or track sessions rather than anything off-road or woodland-based – if they fall out mid-run, there’s a real risk they’ll vanish into the undergrowth, never to be seen again.
Sound-wise, they have that signature JBL character, with a noticeable lean towards bass and lower mids, giving a good bit of drive and punch. You won’t get the finely detailed nuance of more audiophile-focused models, but while you’re running, your attention is usually on the workout, not on the subtleties of cymbal decay.
Top tips for choosing the best running headphones for you
When it comes to choosing the best option for you, it’s important to know which features matter most, as well as having a basic understanding of the shape of your ears, both internally and externally. You’ll also want to bear in mind the type of running you’re doing.
If you’re into long-distance running, an over-ear hook design might be a better choice. It helps reduce ear fatigue, since the silicone tips alone won’t be doing all the work to keep the earphones in place. Over-ear hooks are also a solid option for HIIT-style workouts, where movement is more intense and stability is key.
If you’re more of a casual runner, you’ll probably be perfectly happy with standard in-ear styles. They’re light, easy to use, and often more affordable.
Another key factor to consider is where you’re running. Noise cancelling can be tempting, but if you’re moving through a busy city or populated area, having a transparency or ambient mode is a much safer and smarter choice. It helps you stay aware of your surroundings.
On the other hand, if you’re running indoors, such as at the gym, noise-cancelling becomes your best friend. It will block out the terrible gym playlists and all the background noise. Personally, I find that kind of isolation really helps me focus, as the separation from the outside world can really help you push through.
If I were outside, however, I’d definitely want ambient mode on. I’d like to hear if there’s a car coming!
Ease of use is another big one. You don’t want to be fiddling with your phone mid-run to skip tracks or adjust the volume. Most wireless headphones these days come with touch controls, which let you manage your music without breaking your flow.
Unless you’ve already crafted the perfect playlist for your run, having the ability to skip songs directly from your headphones is incredibly useful. Many also let you adjust volume and switch between listening modes on the fly. So, if you’re outdoors and want noise cancelling on through a quiet park, but need to switch to ambient mode when you’re back on city streets, you can do that seamlessly.
At the end of the day, it all comes down to where and when you’ll be running – and, most importantly, how the headphones fit you. Everyone’s ears are different.
FAQs
Do elite marathon runners listen to music?
Most elite marathon runners do not listen to music during races. This is often due to race regulations, a focus on pacing and strategy, and the need to stay aware of their surroundings. Additionally, many prefer to stay mentally engaged with the competition and their own performance without distraction.
How do marathon runners hold their phone?
Marathon runners typically hold their phone using a running armband, waistband, or hydration vest with secure pockets. These options keep the phone stable and accessible without interfering with stride or arm movement. Handheld phone grips are less common for long distances, due to fatigue and practicality.
Why do my earbuds fall out when I run?
Your earbuds likely fall out when you run because they don’t fit your ear shape securely or can’t handle the movement and sweat. Ear tips that are too small, a lack of ear hooks, or a poor seal can all contribute. Switching to sport-specific models with better fit options usually solves the problem.
Final thoughts
I’ve spent a lot of time helping runners find headphones that actually work for them, and just as much time figuring out what works for me. The more I’ve listened (to people and to playlists), the more I’ve realised how much crossover there is between lifestyle and sport-oriented options. Fit, comfort, audio quality, and awareness of your surroundings matter, whatever you’re doing.
The best running headphones can genuinely keep you motivated and help you stay in the zone. Whether you’re training for a marathon or just looping the park for a bit of headspace, there’s something out there to suit your needs.
In the end, it comes down to what fits well, sounds good, and helps you stay safe and focused. Get those things right, and you’re set.
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