15 Best Waterproof Headphones of 2023
Can’t imagine yourself splashing around in the pool without listening to your favorite playlist? Put your waterproof headphones on and the problem is solved.
Swimming, Kayaking and jogging in the rain does not require you to leave your headphones at home.
Instead, these activities can be easily accompanied by a high-quality pair of waterproof headphones that will allow you to carry on doing what you were occupied with.
To provide you with the best listening experience you could possibly have, we have gathered some of the finest models of waterproof earbuds for your personal review.
Scroll through them while paying attention to the features that matter to you the most and make your choice in favor of one or the other. Rest assured that our in-depth assessment will guide you in the right direction.
The Top 7 Waterproof Headphones in 2023
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1
Noise-Canceling: iKanzi Wireless -
2
Sweatproof: Plantronics BlackBeat -
3
Built-in Heart Rate Monitor: Jabra Elite Sports -
4
For Swimming: Swimbuds Sport -
5
Best Budget: AGPTEK IPX8 -
6
For Gym: TBI PowerPro Bluetooth -
7
Great Battery Life : Sony Sports NWWS413LM MP3
All the Waterproof Headphones We've tested
If a noise-canceling feature on headphones is your top priority, then the model offered by iKanzi is your best choice. The built-in noise reduction feature helps you get in the zone when working out and deliver your best performance.
The IPX7 rating tells you about their sweat- and water-resistance qualities – you can sweat profusely all over your headphones as well as take a shower without having to take them off.
The 120-degree tilting mechanism provides you with the just-right fit no matter how big or small your ears are. This is also achieved thanks to the 5 sets of ear caps of different sizes that come with the headphones. When fully charged, you can use your iKanzi waterproof headphones for up to 4 hours. This is particularly useful for longer workouts that are followed by the half-an-hour showers and hour-long commutes.
Specs & Features
- Design: Earbuds
- Connectivity: Wireless
- Battery Life: 4 hours
- Waterproofing: IPX7
- Dimensions: 3.2 x 2 x 1.2 inches
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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The bass quality is excellent, partly due to the noise-canceling properties
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The earbuds automatically connect once you take them out of their charging case
Things we don't like:
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Takes a whole hour to charge once the 4 hours are used up
This snake-resembling set of waterproof headphones by Plantronics is a true staple in any workout routine. It has got an ear loop design that fits your ears securely while you are doing 5 reps of scrunches and are on the verge of a personal fitness goal breakthrough.
The BlackBeat earbuds have Bluetooth connectivity and a hands-free voice call feature that enables you to listen to your favorite tracks and make calls from a single place with no effort.
The IPX5/7 certification makes the headphones waterproof and dustproof, which further enhances your physical exercise routine and allows you to work out regardless of whether it is a sunny or a rainy day outside. With 7 hours of battery life, you can continue with your day without worrying about your headphones stopping to work.
Specs & Features
- Design: Behind-the-ear
- Connectivity: Wireless
- Battery Life: 7 hours
- Waterproofing: IPX5/7
- Dimensions: 6.3 x 4.3 x 1.9 inches
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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The battery life is optimal, while the onboard alerts notify you about the state of the battery to keep you in the loop
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The buttons built into the headset help to easily navigate the headphones
Things we don't like:
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The Bluetooth setup process is lengthy
Although the Jabra Elite Sports waterproof earbuds are not swim-friendly, they are definitely suitable for intense outdoor exercises with sweating and after-shower involved. There are no wires or cords attached to them – you are provided with two plugs that fit your ears perfectly well. Thanks to the 3 sizes of EarGels that come with the headphones, you will certainly find the right fit for you. You will find two microphones in each earbud that filter out the noise and allow you to listen to music without interruptions.
The battery life of this gadget is impressive – you have got 4.5 hours of playback that can be extended up to 13.5 with a portable charging case in use. This means that no workout and errand running is too time-consuming for you. As if the Elite model was not high-end enough, the manufacturer offers a 3-year warranty that is unlike what any other headphone retailer can provide.
Specs & Features
- Design: Earbuds
- Connectivity: Wireless
- Battery Life: 4.5-13.5 hours
- Waterproofing: IP67
- Dimensions: 7 x 4.7 x 1.8 inches
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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The built-in heart rate monitor is a pleasant bonus that not many headphones can boast about
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The Jabra Sport Life app is handy for receiving personalized fitness guidance
Things we don't like:
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Not suitable for smaller ears
This new and improved pair of waterproof earbuds by Swimbuds is a splurge worth making. Not only does it come with 3 interchangeable fin tips to provide you with the best watertight seal, but it also has the shortest cord that is quite handy. There is a case you can use for transporting your waterproof earbuds from A to B with no accumulation of dust or dirt.
The commitment of the manufacturer to reduce the carbon footprint resulted in the further improvement of the packaging of the headphones. Now they come in an eco-friendly pack that won’t end up rotting in the landfill for hundreds of years.
If you are in search of waterproof earbuds that can be tucked into the strap of your swimming goggles and forgotten about, we strongly suggest including this model in your narrowed down list of waterproof headphones to consider investing in.
Specs & Features
- Material: Silicon
- Connectivity: Wired
- Waterproofing: IPX8
- Dimensions: 6.6 x 5 x 1.6 inches
- Warranty: 1 year
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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The materials of the earbuds are highly qualitative, which makes this gadget appealing to those planning on using it long-term
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The 1-year warranty enables your immediate trust in the quality of the product
Things we don't like:
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The price tag is high
AGPTEK waterproof earphones are the optimal choice for those of you who are on a budget yet are not willing to settle for less. Apart from being the cheapest swim-friendly headphones on the market, they offer a crisp sound quality comparable to high-end models. The noise isolation mechanism embedded into them prevents you from hearing the outside sounds that can interfere with your listening experience.
This device has a nano-coating that allows you to submerge it under the water as deep as 1.5 meters and for as long as 30 minutes. You won’t have to deal with tangled cords due to the coiled earphone cables the manufacturer integrated into the headphones.
What’s more, you are given an extension cord that can be used for extending the length between your device and the headphones. The 8 GB internal memory authorizes you to download up to 2000 tracks to listen to when swimming, so you are covered for months.
Specs & Features
- Design: Earbuds
- Connectivity: Wired
- Waterproofing: IPX8
- Dimensions: 5.3 x 3.4 x 0.8 inches
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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The high level of water-resistance makes the headphones suitable for surfing, swimming and running
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Some of the cheapest waterproof headphones on the market
Things we don't like:
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The build quality corresponds to the low price of the headphones
If you prefer to be on style even when swimming in the pool, the TBI PowerPro Bluetooth waterproof in-ear buds are your best bet. You won’t have to be worried about twisted wires anymore – the 3 pairs of ear tips of different sizes ensure the right fit that is comfortable and wireless.
The construction of the ear tips is secure enough to fit well into your ear canal and not cause you headaches after several hours of continuous listening. One charge gives you 12 hours of use, which is peculiar to this model. The manufacturer added a noise-canceling mechanism for you to listen to clear music without any background noise and to make quick calls when needed.
Due to the headphones’ compact design, you can easily bring them with you to your next diving destination and fully benefit from this practical device.
Specs & Features
- Design: In-ear buds
- Connectivity: Wireless
- Battery Life: 12 hours
- Waterproofing: IPX7
- Dimensions: 3.8 x 3.8 x 2.7 inches
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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The choice of an appropriate size allows you to feel comfortable while listening to music
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The IPX7 waterproofing rating along with the nano-coating provides you with a high level of water protection
Things we don't like:
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The design is bulky
If the budget allows, go for the Sony Sports MP3 waterproof headphones that quite frankly raised the bar high. Everything from their shape and sound to their features is to-die-for. The built-in 4 GB memory, the 12-hour battery life and the quick tunes transfer from your laptop to your headphones is what makes it a worthwhile investment.
Their ergonomic design enables you to schedule your day in a way that involves an hour of boxing, two hours of kayaking and an hour of jogging – all while keeping the headphones in your ears.
Truth be told, you will forget you put them in at the beginning of the day. The construction of this device is so sturdy it received the title of waterproof, salt-proof and dust-proof headphones. You can easily use your Sony headphones in the salty water at the depth of 2-meters – they won’t budge.
Specs & Features
- Design: Behind-the-ear
- Connectivity: Wireless
- Battery Life: 12 hours
- Waterproofing: IP65/68
- Dimensions: 7.4 x 5 x 2 inches
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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You can easily drag and drop files from iTunes to your Sony MP3 player and enjoy listening to music on the go
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It comes with 2 sets of earbuds, a holder and an adjustment band
Things we don't like:
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The price tag is high
The famous American company manufacturing audio equipment released a pair of Bluetooth wireless headphones that are designed for all swim-lovers out there and we couldn’t miss the opportunity to praise them.
JBL Endurance Dive headphones are distinguished with their 8 hours of battery life – an impressive number that allows you to swim a few days in a row without charging your device. They have a built-in MP3 player and 1 GB of memory – just enough to store hundreds of your favorite tunes in one place.
You can easily access 200+ songs directly from your waterproof headphones, which is quite handy when you are in the middle of your swim session. The TwistLock mechanism along with the FlexSoft technology protects your headphones from falling out and becoming uncomfortable in your ears. Make use of the touch controls that help you pause, play and control the volume of tracks with a quick touch.
Specs & Features
- Material: Silicone
- Connectivity: Wireless Bluetooth
- Battery Life: 8 hours
- Waterproofing: IPX7
- Dimensions: 4.2 x 6.5 x 2.1 inches
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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The IPX7 rating means that you can easily swim with these earbuds in for up to 30 minutes without worrying about damaging them
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The hands-free call feature allows you to make calls in an instant
Things we don't like:
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Prone to breaking if not used with care
The classic design of the H20 Surge+ waterproof headphones makes you fall in love with them practically right away. It doesn’t stop here, however – this device delivers a great sound and provides a high waterproofing rating.
This means that you can dive as deep as 3 and a half meters and still have your favorite tune playing in your ear. Besides, the earbuds are bound to sit comfortably in your ear thanks to their ergonomic shape and the 5 sets of high-quality earplugs that can accommodate every ear shape.
These headphones were created by and for athletes, meaning that the approach to manufacturing was taken seriously. There is no discomfort to be found while wearing this model for hours at a time and no slippage from your ear. The Surge+ won’t disappoint you even in the deep swimming pool where the idea of a sound seems impossible – its waterproof dynamic speakers dispose of the compelling sound that is maintained all throughout your swimming session.
Specs & Features
- Material: Silicon
- Connectivity: Wired
- Waterproofing: IPX8
- Dimensions: 6 x 4.5 x 1 inches
- Warranty: 1 year
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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The availability of 5 different earplugs helps you choose the right fit for your ears
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The high waterproofing indicator allows you to dive deep and compete in lengthy swimming competitions
Things we don't like:
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The cord is excessively long
The Sennheiser CX 680 waterproof headphones are engineered on the Adidas performance, which already gives them enough credibility to push that ‘buy now’ button. If you need more convincing, however, consider this – they have an innovative fin design that stays put no matter what. Furthermore, the earbuds are completely sweat- and water-resistant, thus being the perfect companion for indoor or outdoor workouts.
The DuPont Kevlar cord is of that perfect length to allow you to run and jog without becoming tangled. The standard ⅛ inches plug means the headphones are compatible with every portable device including iPhones, MP3 players and similar devices.
There’s more to them – the manufacturer ensured the highest possible energy stereo sound that blocks the outside noise to the maximum. You won’t have any trouble listening to your hyping tracks in the busy gyms at any time of the day.
Specs & Features
- Material: Silicon
- Connectivity: Wired
- Dimensions: 6.5 x 5.5 x 1.8 inches
- Warranty: 2 years
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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The build quality is top-notch – the brand name Sennheiser didn’t disappoint
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The sound quality is perfect and can be compared to its counterpart Shure SE535LE model costing 5 times more
Things we don't like:
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There is only one built-in fin included in the package
Compatible with every Apple gadget and MP3 player on the market, Pyle Wired waterproof headphones are ergonomically designed for water sports athletes as much as for everyday jogging enthusiasts. Their slick all-black construction and customizable ear fins makes them an essential device in everyone’s stash of electronic gadgets.
The superb sound quality combined with the water-blocking mechanism means that there is nothing standing in the way of these headphones to offer you the best listening experience.
If you are looking for a pair of high-quality waterproof headphones that won’t cost a fortune while still performing well, these are the ones to settle on.
Specs & Features
- Material: Silicone
- Connectivity: Wired
- Waterproofing: IPX7
- Dimensions: 7.1 x 4.7 x 1.1 inches
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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The 3 interchangeable tips allow you to find the perfect fit without having to compromise the comfort
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The price is affordable
Things we don't like:
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The wired version is not everyone’s cup of tea
Whether or not you can roll with headphones that are waterproof but not wireless is your decision, but the practice demonstrates that if you do, you won’t regret it. The HydroActive waterproof headphones designed by Underwater Audio have a ridged style that is backed by the ergo/tree/fin/round tips of the earbuds to choose from. Depending on how water-sealed you want your earbuds to be and how deep you are comfortable with them entering your ears, the ultimate choice is yours.
The manufacturer embedded the device to be able to withstand the water depth of up to 3 meters. This allows you to freely apply your swimming skills to practice with no risk of damaging your electronic gadget.
The headphones are compatible with any music player with a 3.5 mm jack, which gives you the opportunity to listen to music from almost any device.
Specs & Features
- Design: Behind-the-ear
- Connectivity: Wired
- Waterproofing: IPX8
- Dimensions: 9.7 x 5 x 3.5 inches
- Warranty: 1 Year
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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The wrap-around behind-the-ear construction of the headphones allows you to quickly put them on and take them off
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The wires are reinforced with para-aramid synthetic fiber that was commonly used in replacing the steel in racing tires, which is a sign of the device’s sturdiness
Things we don't like:
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The price tag is high
It’s safe to say that the LETSCOM Sports wireless waterproof headphones are the jackpot. Here are the reasons why. For a small price of $20, you are getting a serious pair of headphones with 8 hours of playback, IPX7 waterproof rating and a high fidelity sound supported by the CVC noise cancellation mechanism. Not too shabby, right?
The internal nano-coating of the headphones protects them from heavy downpours, thus allowing you to jog and do yoga even in the harshest weather conditions. You have complete control over the headphones thanks to the easily accessible buttons located on the headpiece.
Besides turning the volume up and down and switching between the tracks, you can answer and end calls. This is helpful when you are in the middle of a workout and don’t have the possibility to pick up the phone.
Specs & Features
- Design: Behind-the-ear
- Connectivity: Wireless
- Battery Life: 8 hours
- Waterproofing: IPX7
- Dimensions: 3.9 x 3.9 x 1.9 inches
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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The level of water-resistance meets the high standards required for headphones to be used in the rain
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Thanks to the CVC noise-canceling mic, the sound is impeccable
Things we don't like:
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Although battery life is claimed to be 8 hours, in reality, it’s closer to 4-5 hours of continuous use
You can now take the music with you no matter what physical activity you are engaged in. Sony NWWS623 waterproof and dustproof (and also salt proof) headphones are here to help better your listening experience. They are durable, have tough construction and can be easily submerged under the water for a period of 30 minutes or less. Sony offers the users of the device 6 play modes ranging from ‘normal’ and ‘repeat’ to ‘shuffle’ and ‘playback order (Folder/Playlist/Album)’.
The quality of the sound is unquestionable – the brand has managed to earn itself a great reputation on the market of electronic devices and it shows.
Apart from uploading music soundtracks, you can also listen to audiobooks or podcasts. Or, if you are more of a radio type of an athlete, feel free to connect to a media source of your choice via Bluetooth to listen to the latest news or music hits.
Specs & Features
- Design: Behind-the-ear
- Connectivity: Wireless
- Battery Life: 4-12 hours
- Waterproofing: IP58
- Dimensions: 7.6 x 5 x 2.4 inches
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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You can choose from 4 or 16 GB of internal memory to store your favorite music tunes, audiobooks and podcasts
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The IP58 rating means the headphones are suitable for swimming
Things we don't like:
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The price tag is high
The AfterShokz Xtrainerz waterproof headphones will take you to the new listening depths with their never-seen-before cheekbone audio. Unlike other models, this one delivers the sound to your ears without actually being stuck in your ears. This means no ear pain or slippage from the ear since the headphones are comfortably secured behind your head and your ears.
The 4 GB of storage allows you to listen to a wide variety of tunes, while the 8 hours of playback provide you with enough time to cross-train in the water.
The IP68 rating authorizes you to swim up to 2 hours at the depth reaching 2 meters or less, which is more than sufficient for a good training session. With these headphones in use, you can finally relax and not worry about them slipping off during your intense strokes in the water.
Specs & Features
- Design: Open-ear
- Connectivity: Wireless
- Battery Life: 8 hours
- Waterproofing: IP68
- Dimensions: 6.7 x 5.3 x 3.7 inches
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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No need to bring the music playing device with you – the WAV, WMA, AAC, MP3 and FLAC files connectivity is there
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The unique open-ear design enables the pain-free listening experience
Things we don't like:
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Not compatible with Bluetooth
Frequently asked questions
By definition, waterproof headphones are designed to provide you with the same functionality as the regular headphones with the exception of being water-friendly. Does this mean that you can scuba dive in the ocean or swim in the pool with your headphones? Not necessarily.
To find out whether your particular set of headphones is compatible with swimming, you should carefully read through the gadget’s manual that thoroughly describes the appropriate use of the headphones. While some models of waterproof earbuds can be submerged a few meters under water, others are merely suitable for jogging in the rain.
A reliable source of information regarding the waterproofing factor of the headphones is the IP or ‘Ingress Protection’ rate – a measure of how well an electronic device can handle dust and water. In the case of waterproof headphones, the following are the ratings suggesting the proper use of the gadget:
- IPX0: The device is not compatible with water
- IPX1: The device can handle vertical drops of water
- IPX2: The device is able to resist the water hitting it at a <15° angle
- IPX3: The device can handle light water splashes reaching 60° angle
- IPX4: The device can receive water splashes coming from every direction
- IPX5: The device can resist low-pressure sprays of water (it’s generally safe to use Bluetooth in-ear headphones with a rating of IPX5 and up while you’re in the shower)
- IPX6: The device can resist high-pressure sprays of water
- IPX7: The device is compatible with 30-minutes water submersion of <1 meter – IPX8: The device is compatible with water submersion of >1 meter (see instructions)
- IPX9K: The device can handle high-temperature and high-pressure water sprays (rarely used)
If you don’t find an IP rating on your waterproof headphones, don’t jump to the conclusion that your device is not swim-friendly. Take a close look at the manufacturer’s certifications as they may differ from the most common ones used for identifying the waterproofing abilities of a device.
When choosing what waterproof headphones to invest in, you should take into consideration factors like the objective of the use, the features you are not ready to compromise, and the budget you can allocate for the purchase.
As for the objective, it can either be using waterproof headphones when swimming, kayaking or scuba diving. Paired with a waterproof MP3 player, you are equipped with the ultimate sound system even when out and about. The other circumstances include running and/or hiking. It can get boring, or worse, unmotivating, to push yourself without some upbeat tunes in your ears or a narrator describing to you in detail what happened to your favorite book character.
As for the features, one of the essential ones to consider is the existence or the absence of Bluetooth connectivity that makes the headphones, consequently, wireless or wired. Unless you have a waterproof music player that you can take under the water with you, wireless headphones are the better choice. A built-in memory, a high-tech design and a pair of replacement buds are all some extra features that you might find to be a necessity for you.
As for the budget, just with any electronic gadget, the more you pay, the better is the quality and the wider is the range of features the manufacturer offers. That said, you don’t have to pay a lot to get a good pair of waterproof headphones that will perform its basic function well. If you don’t plan on using your device every day, it makes sense to purchase a budget-friendly pair of waterproof headphones that will not break the bank and neither will compromise the sound quality.
As opposed to the wired headphones, the wireless ones that employ the Bluetooth technology are the easiest to use during high-intensity activities. With their popularity growing each day, manufacturers have come up with a wide variety of earbuds that can accommodate every ear shape and every sound preference. If you are unsure as to what earbud shape will suit you best, pay a visit to your local electronics store and try a few pairs on before making an online purchase.
Once you find your best fit, make sure your ears are squeaky clean before putting your waterproof earbuds in. This is crucial not because of common-sense hygiene, but because of the risk of dirt getting in between your ears and the device thus allowing the water to leak through. Ensure your earbuds are just as clean before putting them on too. When planning on wearing your waterproof earbuds, push them in your ears as far as they can comfortably fit. You will notice that the noise is most likely canceled out, which allows you to listen to your music with no outside distractions. If you happen to notice that the water is leaking through your earbuds, you should either refit them in your ear or exchange them for a different pair.
Although essentially there is no difference between the words ‘waterproof’ and ‘water-resistant’, the reality shows that products labeled with one or the other are not the same. Generally speaking, water-resistant gadgets are known to handle water not in the same capacity as the gadgets with a waterproof indicator.
When diving deeper, a water-resistant device means that the materials used for its manufacturing (shell/case in particular) are able to repel the water to some extent. For reference, if your water-resistant headphones come in contact with some form of a liquid, you will be able to see the droplets on their surface and wipe them away. Depending on the level of waterproofing, when your device has a high rating of waterproofness, you will be able to freely swim or shower with your earbuds in without having to wipe anything away – the device won’t let the water penetrate.
Just like any other electronic gadget, waterproof headphones have their own timeline with a deadline when you have to part with them. This doesn’t mean, however, that they are not reliable – instead, with proper care and timely repairs when (and if) needed, they can last you many years. For obvious reasons, the better is the quality of your waterproof headphones, the higher is the chance of them lasting you a long time.
Note that the more you use your waterproof earbuds, the more wear and tear they are likely to acquire over time. This doesn’t mean that they were not reliable in the first place – rather, it just indicates that it’s time to either repair the mature parts of the gadget or replace it with a new one. Remember that if you follow the manufacturer’s instructions to the tee, you might even be able to benefit from them for longer than indicated on the packaging.
If you already have a waterproof headphones or you just bought one, leave a comment in the comment section below and share your experience with it.
Comments
Hi Lynne. We’ve talked about how the bone conducting earphone effect works underwater. We’ve looked at these to try, but haven’t done it yet. Hopefully we’ll get one done soon.
Hi, Do you have any knowledge of the HYDGENX18 Headphones? I am considering purchasing but cannot find any independent reviews or information. Many thanks
Hi Gerald,
Yes, and partially submerged will do fine for all of them.
Hi Shirley,
Yes, these will do. You’ll need them connected to your phone, which’ll need to be close to the edge.
Hi Shirley,
Yes, these will do. You’ll need them connected to your phone, which’ll need to be close to the edge.
I want them to float on my raft in pool to answer calls and listening to music , not really submerging, will these work with Apple Watch!
can they all her used actually for swimming for up to 45 minutes and being partial;ly submerged ?