Finding the perfect headphones for running may not be easy. There are a lot of considerations to take into account, such as comfort, security, and waterproofing.
However, you also need to consider safety issues. While most of us are perfectly happy to retreat into our own world while we run, aided by either music, audio books, or podcasts, it’s important to stay alert – particularly if you’ll encounter traffic.
What should you think about when choosing headphones for running, and what are the best and safest options?
Bose Soundsport Free Wireless Headphones
Wireless headphones, whether true wireless or not, are always the best bet for runners. The earbuds are snug and comfortable, fitting well. This gives you the security you need to listen to your audio while running.
Crucially, these headphones aren’t noise canceling or noise isolating. Why is this an interesting point?
Simply put, if you’re running around traffic, you need to stay alert. Noise canceling headphones do a great job of shutting out the outside world, that won’t be ideal when you’re out and about.
Bang & Olufsen Beoplay E8
These headphones are true wireless, boasting all the comfort, security, and sound quality you’d expect for earphones of this price. However, they also have an additional feature that makes them perfect for runners: the transparency option.
This means that with a tap on the earbuds themselves, you can tune out of your audio and into the world around you. If you need to cross a busy road or weave across traffic, the transparency mode is ideal. You don’t need to fumble around with your headphones, you can simply tune out and back in again as needed.
Bose Soundsport Wireless Headphones
Bose Soundsport are a well-known and firmly established brand. If you prefer a little more security while you run, wireless headphones are likely best. There is a difference between true wireless and simple wireless.
These headphones are wireless, but connected around the back of your neck via a cable. This means that if you’re dodging in and out of traffic, there’s no chance of one earbud falling out and getting lost. Even a second’s distraction while running in traffic can have serious consequences. Wireless earbuds are ideal, so long as they’re secure.
Aftershokz Aeropex Open Ear Wireless
Another great option for security and alertness, the Aftershokz Aeropex wireless headphones are open ear. This means that they don’t plug right into your ear canal, instead sitting comfortably on your temples.
This allows you to hear surrounding noise and activity. If you know you’re likely to encounter a lot of traffic while you run, open-ear headphones are definitely the best bet.
What to Look for In Headphones for Running
Wireless headphones are certainly the best choice for any physical activity, especially running. With a little research, you can find good workout headphones that you can download music to, which means you won’t get distracted by fiddling with your audio device.
It’s all too easy to let our minds wander when out running. That’s fine, but when traffic comes into the equation, it’s imperative to stay alert. You can still enjoy your audio, but here a few points you should consider when wearing headphones:
- Make sure you can hear surrounding noise
Some headphones come with a transparency mode, allowing you to tune into your surroundings. Open ear headphones allow you to hear ambient noise.
- Don’t use noise canceling or noise isolating headphones
It may be tempting to use your regular headphones for running. Remember that you must stay alert.
- Wear secure headphones
An earbud dropping out while you run through traffic can lead to disastrous consequences. The consequences could just be your earbud getting crushed by a passing car – or it could be much worse.
All in all, it’s great to listen to audio while we run. So long as you stay alert, you’ll be fine!
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