Music is the ideal accompaniment to exercise, but you shouldn't just grab any old headphones before you head to the gym. If you're planning to work up a sweat, make sure whatever you choose can handle a soaking. We test scores of headphones each year, from noise-cancelling models that block out the world around you to exercise-friendly earbuds that can handle exposure to sweat and other liquids.
Check out our favorite waterproof earphones below, followed by buying advice with key tips for finding the best pair for you.
Pay Attention to IP Ratings
Let’s start here: Waterproof is a flexible term and water resistant is even more so. To qualify as either, a product ostensibly has to go through standard testing to determine its level of protection against liquids. The resulting score is called an ingress protection (IP) rating. Our explainer on the IP rating system has more details and is a good read for those curious about the process.
The short version goes like this: Manufacturers thoroughly (we hope) test their products under a rigid system of guidelines and assign an appropriate rating based on the results. The IP system also indicates the level of protection against dust, which can make things a little confusing.
Anker Soundcore Sport X10 (Credit: Tim Gideon)Let’s say you have two pairs of headphones, one with an IP57 rating and another with an IPX7 rating. Which pair is more waterproof and what’s with the X? First off, they are equally waterproof—only the second digit in an IP rating corresponds to water resistance. The first digit indicates the level of dust protection. So, whereas the IP57 model has a high level of dust resistance, an IPX7 rating either means that the manufacturer didn't sufficiently test the product to these standards or that the product didn't meet the minimum threshold to get a rating. The X is simply a placeholder for 0. More often than not, the IP ratings we see for headphones have an X in them—manufacturers tend to care more about protection against liquids than dust.
The truth is, most people probably don’t need the highest level of water resistance from their headphones. Something with a modest IP rating, but with lots of other useful features, such as active noise cancellation or an adjustable EQ, might end up being a better fit.
What's the Difference Between Water-Resistant and Waterproof Headphones?
Now that you understand what the numbers represent, what kind of IP ratings should you look for? To keep things simple, we’re just going to refer to everything as an IPX rating and ignore the dust resistance part here. It's rare for a manufacturer to even advertise a rating below IPX3, which corresponds to weak water resistance. Products with an IPX4 status can at least withstand water sprays from any direction.
An IPX5 rating means a product can handle water jetting from a 6.3mm nozzle, whereas an IPX6 rating means water jets from a 12.5mm nozzle should be fine. Both of these levels are likely good enough for a sweaty workout or exercise in light rain. You probably shouldn't expose headphones with this rating to heavy faucet pressure, however, let alone submerge them.
JBL Endurance Peak 3 (Credit: Tim Gideon)You can submerge IPX7 gear at depths of up to a meter for up to 30 minutes without issue. An IPX7 rating is where a product makes the leap from water resistant to waterproof; this is the minimum level for products on this list. IPX8 earphones are now increasingly common, too. They can survive at depths between one and three meters for longer periods.
Waterproof Headphones for Swimming
Generally speaking, a Bluetooth signal doesn’t do well underwater. Although a wireless pair of IPX7 earphones might be enticing for swimming laps, the Bluetooth signal might not be steady.
That's why some companies, such as H2O Audio, specialize in Bluetooth products for swimmers. These earphones are subject to the same limitations of Bluetooth signals underwater, but their design keeps the headphones' reception circuitry above water, whereas traditional headphones might go underwater every time you turn your head to breathe.
Another possible issue with using headphones for swimming is range. Your Bluetooth audio source needs to be nearby to maintain a strong streaming signal.
How to Charge Waterproof Headphones
For a variety of reasons, waterproof earphones far outnumber over-ear or on-ear headphones with the same qualities. Within the in-ear world, you have true wireless earphones, as well as more traditional wireless models with cables that connect the earpieces but still stream wireless audio.
Note that the charging case for your true wireless earphones likely isn't water resistant at all. Some cases have waterproof exteriors, but very few have a waterproof interior (the case for the second-generation AirPods Pro is a notable exception). If you dock them while they’re wet, you run the risk of damaging the product. Wireless models with a cable don’t have this issue. However, their waterproof ratings typically apply only when the charging point is closed.
All of this is to say that you still must use common sense. A simpler way to think of it is: When you are charging them, treat your headphones as if they aren't water-resistant. Dry the port before attaching a cable and dry your earpieces before you place them in the case.
LG Tone Free Fit TF8 (Credit: Tim Gideon)How Much Should You Spend on Waterproof Headphones?
A solid IP rating doesn’t seem to have a huge impact on price these days. That said, if water resistance is important to you, the best pairs we’ve tested generally start around $100. Often, the more expensive pairs of waterproof earphones have higher price tags because they offer top-notch noise cancellation or other premium audio features.
If you're looking for something more affordable, you can head over to the best headphones we've tested for under $50. Just keep in mind that they might not be waterproof. And when you find the right pair, make sure to check out our additional coverage on five easy tips to extend the life of your headphones and the eight ways you're using your headphones wrong.
