If you are an avid swimmer or a gym enthusiast, you know how music boosts productivity and augments your overall performance by keeping you motivated and focused throughout your workouts. But you can’t just opt for any headphones as most models available are not waterproof.
I’ve handpicked the top 6 best waterproof headphones for 2024, but not all are ideal for submerging in water. Some of the models listed in the article are waterproof with an IP68 or IPX 8 rating, while others have an IPX7 rating, meaning they can be submerged in water only to certain depths.
This article covers the top 6 best waterproof headphones, detailing each one’s pros and cons, key features to consider before making a purchase, and more – to equip you with ample information about waterproof headphones, so you can make informed decisions while confidently adding one to your shopping cart. Without further ado, let’s dive in!
Top 6 Best Waterproof Headphones in 2024
H2o Audio Tri
Product Description: With an IPX8 waterproof rating, H2O Audio Tri is one of the best waterproof headphones in 2024. This Multi-Sport Waterproof Headphone features breakthrough Bluetooth bone conduction technology and a built-in MP3 player that is designed for both land and water activities. Being one of the best headphones for swimming, it’s 100% waterproof and sweatproof headphones, offering up to 6 hours of playtime.
Key features and specs:
- Battery life: 6 hours
- Waterproof rating: IPX8
- Ear placement: Open Ear
- Water submersion of 12 feet (3,6 meters)
- Built-in MP3 player
Price: $99.99
Link to purchase: Amazon
User reviews and ratings: The biggest complaint about these waterproof headphones is their poor audio quality, with sound often described as garbled and bass-heavy, leading to an unsatisfactory listening experience. Additionally, users have found the fit and security strap problematic, causing inconvenience during use. Conversely, some users appreciate the audio quality and functionality, including easy controls and effective waterproofing, though they find the price a bit high.
Pros
- IPX8 waterproofing
- Lightweight design
- Bluetooth connectivity
Cons
- Audio quality may not meet expectations
- May be uncomfortable for some users
JBL Reflect Aero
Product Description: JBL Reflect Aero stands as one of the best headphones for running due to its extreme dust and water resistance with a rating of IP68. With six microphones for crystal-clear calls, these earbuds are built for any environment. Designed for a comfortable and secure fit, they come with customizable earbud tips and the My JBL Headphones App to help you find your perfect fit.
Key features and specs:
- Battery life: 8 hours
- Waterproof rating: IP68
- Impedance: 16 Ohm
- Adaptive noise cancellation
- 6 mics for crystal-clear calls
- Waterproof up to 5 feet (1,5 meters) for up to 30 minutes
Price: $99.95
Link to purchase: Amazon
User reviews and ratings: Users appreciate the JBL Reflect Aero in-ear headphones for their excellent bass, clear call quality, and advanced features like noise cancellation and talk-through mode. However, some find them uncomfortable, with issues related to fit, app functionality, and touch controls, leading to mixed reviews about their overall performance.
Pros:
- Great bass and sound quality.
- Clear calls with advanced noise cancellation.
- Enhanced app features.
- Effective noise cancellation and transparency.
Cons:
- Uncomfortable fit for some users.
- App and Bluetooth connectivity issues.
- Less responsive touch controls.
- New battery indicator and design changes.
SHOKZ OpenSwim
Product Description: The MP3 OpenSwim is one of the best waterproof headphones that features an open-ear design with bone conduction technology for comfortable, bud-free listening both in and out of the water. With internal storage for up to 1,200 songs and an IP68 waterproof rating, it’s suitable for prolonged water exposure. You can enjoy up to 8 hours of music with easy-to-use controls and a secure, lightweight fit.
Key features and specs:
- Battery life: 8 hours
- Waterproof rating: IP68 (advanced water submersion)
- Storage: 1200 song
- Design: open-ear
Price: $149.95
Link to purchase: Amazon
User reviews and ratings: Based on user reviews, the Open Swim headset stands out for its excellent sound quality and user-friendly design, particularly for swimmers. The bone conduction technology is praised for comfort and effective sound delivery in the water, while the innovative charging system and thoughtful accessories add value. Though it lacks Bluetooth for streaming, the device’s overall performance and customer support have been highly appreciated.
Pros:
- Great sound quality in water
- Comfortable bone conduction
- Easy-to-use controls
- Secure charging system
- Useful accessories included
Cons:
- No Bluetooth for streaming
- Limited to MP3 format
- Earplugs may be too tight
JBL Endurance Peak 3
Product Description: Being one of the best waterproof headphones, The JBL Endurance Peak 3 earbuds offer powerful Pure Bass Sound with a 10mm dynamic driver — giving you up to 50 hours of playback with a quick 10-minute charge for an hour of playtime. Equipped with a durable design with an IP68 advanced waterproof rating, these earbuds are both waterproof and dustproof, making them ideal for active use. Advanced features like Ambient Aware and TalkThru can help you stay connected and aware of your surroundings, while the 4-microphone system ensures clear calls even in extreme weather conditions.
Key features and specs:
- Battery life: 10 hours
- Waterproof rating: IP68 (advanced water submersion)
- Design: in-ear headphones
- Impedance: 16 Ohm
Price range: $89.95-$99.95
Link to purchase: Amazon
User reviews and ratings: According to Amazon reviews, the JBL Endurance Peak 3 earbuds are commended for their great sound quality, comfortable fit, and long battery life. The waterproof design and Ambient Aware mode are appreciated. However, some users have noted a few drawbacks: the charging case is massive and hard to open, the auto-off function can be annoying, the volume could be louder, and there's a lack of noise-canceling features.
Pros:
- Long battery life
- Durable and stays securely in the ear
- Good sound quality with customizable settings
- Clear microphone with minimal background noise
Cons:
- Switching between paired devices requires turning off Bluetooth on the current device
- Charging case can be difficult to handle
- Limited volume control
Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro
Product Description: The Galaxy Buds2 Pro deliver studio-quality sound and intelligent Active Noise Cancellation for an immersive listening experience. Among the top waterproof headphones of 2024, this model offers real-time translation via the Interpreter feature and 360-degree audio for a personalized surround sound experience. Comfortable and durable with IPX7 water resistance, they can be submerged to a certain depth, unlike IP68-rated headphones that can handle greater depths.
Key features and specs:
- Battery life: Up to 8 hours
- Waterproof rating: IPX7
- Interpreter feature included
- Advanced audio quality
- Immersion up to 3 feet deep for up to 30 minutes
Price: $159-$229
Link to purchase: Amazon
User reviews and ratings: Based on user reviews on Amazon, the Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro stands out for its easy setup, superior sound quality comparable to Bose, and effective noise cancellation. Users appreciate their comfortable fit, customizable sound options, and reliable connectivity, although some mention initial discomfort and a dust-prone case. The earbuds’ features like real-time translation and 360-degree audio are highlighted as major benefits for Samsung users.
Pros:
- Easy setup
- Excellent sound quality
- Effective noise cancellation
- Comfortable fit
- Long battery life
Cons:
- Initial discomfort
- Non-waterproof charging case
- Volume control requires both earbuds
LG TF8
Product Description: These LG earbuds, among the best waterproof headphones of 2024, offer exceptional durability with an IP67 dust and waterproofing rating. They are just what you need for intense workouts or running under downpours. They feature advanced Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation, UVnano+ technology to sanitize the earbuds, and spatial upmixing for an immersive 3D sound experience.
Key features and specs:
- Battery life: up to 10 hours
- Waterproof rating: IP68
- Advanced features: Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation, UVnano+
- Advanced audio quality
Price: $119-$199
Link to purchase: Amazon
User reviews and ratings: Users on Amazon praise these earbuds’ sound quality, fit, and customizable features through the app. They also appreciate the comfort, water resistance, and battery life but note some issues with wind noise in ambient mode, fit for smaller ears, and the lack of wireless charging. The find-my-buds feature is also highlighted as a useful addition.
Pros:
- Comfortable and secure fit with the right fins
- Good sound quality with customizable settings
- Water-resistant and suitable for workouts
- Flexible app controls and multi-device connectivity
- Compact, stylish charging case
Cons:
- Wind noise in ambient mode
- No wireless charging
- Fit may not be ideal for all ear sizes
- Touch controls can be overly sensitive
Benefits of Waterproof Headphones
Waterproof headphones are not only about withstanding water splashes and submersion — they can boost your productivity threefold. High-quality music is a solution for everything, right? Music has been shown to positively impact mental fatigue associated with repetitive tasks.
Engaging with music can disrupt the monotony of routine activities, providing a mental break and refreshing your focus. And if you’re an avid swimmer who can’t use standard earbuds or headphones to swim, let alone dive deep in water, then you’ll greatly benefit from good waterproof headphones.
What sets waterproof headphones apart in the market is their exceptional durability in both aquatic and dusty environments. Whether you’re swimming laps or running through a downpour, these headphones are built to withstand the elements without compromising performance or comfort. They also feature higher-quality audio compared to standard models that, in turn, help you stay focused on achieving your fitness or swimming goals.
With their robust construction, they are also designed to resist wear and tear. This durability makes them a versatile choice for everyday use beyond just swimming. From gym sessions and intense workouts to everyday activities, our handpicked best waterproof headphones are built to keep up with you every step of the way. To enhance your gym workouts and swimming sessions even further, consider pairing your waterproof headphones with these best fitness trackers.
Features to Consider When Buying Waterproof Headphones
When choosing waterproof headphones, make sure to consider several key features to guarantee you get the best performance and durability in aquatic environments. The most important factors include water resistance ratings like IPX7 or IP6, sound quality, fit and comfort, battery life, and last but not least – durability. Each of these aspects plays an instrumental role in determining how well the headphones will perform in various environments and how comfortable they will be for extended use.
Here’s a closer look at these features to help you make an informed decision:
Water Resistance Rating
The water resistance rating is crucial for determining how well headphones can handle exposure to water. Look for headphones with an IPX (Ingress Protection) rating, which indicates their level of protection against water. IPX7 or higher is ideal for swimming and heavy rain, as it means the headphones can withstand submersion in water up to a certain depth and duration.
Sound Quality
Sound quality is a key consideration, especially for waterproof headphones that need to perform well both in and out of the water. High-quality audio components mean clear sound, strong bass, and balanced frequencies. You can also check for features such as noise cancellation to fully immerse yourself in your fitness activities.
Fit and Comfort
A secure and comfortable fit is essential — especially if you plan to use the headphones during vigorous physical activities like swimming. Look for adjustable or customizable ear tips and ergonomic designs that stay in place during movement. Over-ear, in-ear, and hook styles each offer different levels of comfort and stability, so choose according to your personal preference and activity level.
Battery Life
Battery life is essential for extended use. Opt for headphones with long-lasting battery performance, so you won’t have to worry about frequent recharging. Consider features like quick charging and extended playtime to ensure they meet your needs for both daily use and longer workouts.
Durability
Regardless of the headphone type, durability remains a crucial feature to consider. Waterproof headphones should be built to withstand not just water, but also dust, sweat, and impact. Check for robust materials and construction, including reinforced cables and secure connections, to ensure the headphones will hold up over time.
FAQs
How do you know if headphones are truly waterproof?
Check the headphone’s Ingress Protection (IP) rating to determine if it’s truly waterproof. The IP rating indicates the level of protection against water and dust. For waterproof headphones, look for an IPX7 or higher rating. IPX7 means the headphones can be submerged in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes without damage.
Can you swim with waterproof headphones?
Yes, you can swim with waterproof headphones if they have an appropriate IP rating, typically IPX7 or higher. These ratings confirm the headphones can withstand submersion. However, it’s important to check the manufacturer’s guidelines for specific usage instructions and limitations, as not all waterproof headphones are designed for prolonged underwater use.
How to charge waterproof headphones?
Charging waterproof headphones is similar to regular headphones. All you have to do is to use the cable and plug it in. The charging port is sealed to keep water out, but check the manual for any specifics. Some even have wireless charging for extra convenience.
What is the difference between water-resistant and waterproof headphones?
The main difference between water-resistant and waterproof headphones lies in their level of protection against water.
- Water-Resistant Headphones: These headphones can withstand some exposure to water, such as sweat or light rain, but they are not designed for submersion. They typically have a lower IP rating, such as IPX4 or IPX5.
- Waterproof Headphones: These are designed to withstand submersion in water for a certain period and depth. They have higher IP ratings, such as IP67, IPX7, or IPX8, indicating they can handle complete submersion without damage. Waterproof headphones are suitable for activities like swimming where complete water exposure is expected.
Conclusion
If standard headphones aren’t cutting it for your active lifestyle and are prone to wear and tear, our top picks for the best waterproof headphones are the solution. Models with an IPX7 rating or higher are ideal for swimming and can enhance your fitness routine. To choose the right waterproof headphones, focus on their Ingress Protection (IP) rating and enjoy more effective workouts and swimming sessions. In the coming decade, the industry is likely to develop even more advanced waterproof headphones that will offer improved comfort and deeper diving capabilities that will be suitable for a wider range of aquatic activities like diving.