Best headphones

headphones
(Image credit: Amazon)

Wireless earphones can now do it all. Thanks to advances in Bluetooth technology, batteries and waterproofing, you don’t have to worry about wires getting in the way when you want to listen to music when running, hiking or cycling. 

As well as their performance in terms of staying connected and sounding great over a good number of hours, the best headphones for outdoor sports need to be able to resist water and sweat and plenty of shocks from you pounding the ground. Safety is also a factor. Noise-canceling headphones are great on a plane but when you’re out there running or cycling, it’s important you can listen out for danger, usually in the form of approaching cars. Here are the headphones we recommend.

Best overall

headphones

(Image credit: Amazon)

Mpow Flame Bluetooth Headphones V5.0

Great sound and highly waterproof

These advanced Bluetooth V5 headphones boast a stable connection, powerful bass and IPX7 waterproofing. They offer 7-9 hours of playback and will work in heavy rain or through intense workouts. Or both. Ear-hook and in-ear fitting mean they will stay put whatever you do so you can enjoy the great sound quality and clear voice calls.

Best open ear

headphones

(Image credit: Amazon)

Open Ear Wireless Sports Headphones

Interesting audio with open-ear design

This headset delivers sound through your cheekbones so you don’t need to cover your ears. Great if you want to hear your surroundings as well as your music and stay safe on the road or at night. The IPX6 waterproofing means that can resist light rain and Bluetooth v5.0 will keep your connection stable. The battery lasts for five hours, delivering voice calls and immersive 6D panoramic audio.

Best for sport

headphones

(Image credit: Amazon)

Bone Conduction Headphones

Good for sports with a snug fit

Designed for athletes, these Bluetooth V 5.0 wireless headphones use bone conduction and open earbuds with a secure fit and sweat-proof design. Battery life is a respectable six hours (with two hours charging) and they come equipped with CVC call noise reduction technology. 

Bottom line

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Get a good pair of wireless headphones and you can take your music, podcasts and audiobooks with you wherever your adventure takes you even if it’s raining hard or you are going for the burn. Once you ditch wires, it’s hard to go back. Our choice of wireless headphones that are waterproof and tough enough for your outdoor adventures are Mpow Flame Bluetooth Headphones V5.0. They stay connected, the battery life is good and they resist whatever the elements throw at them.

If you want to be aware of your surroundings, important when running or cycling, these Bone Conduction Headphones are a good choice. The tech works well, leaving your ears uncovered but the music pumping and they are good for phone calls too.

Advnture team

Launched in July 2020, Advnture is the ideal destination for anyone who loves the great outdoors. Whether you're into epic hikes through the wilderness, camping trips with the family, climbing with your friends, or looking for a trail running personal best, our team of experts will point you in the right direction, with top buying advice and in-depth guides to help you get the most of your time in the backcountry.