Best Headphones For Swimming

Choosing the right headphones or earbuds for swimming and water activities involves more than just picking a pair that fits your ears. It’s about finding a balance between functionality, comfort, and durability, especially when you’re looking for devices that can withstand the challenges of water immersion. Whether you’re a serious swimmer looking to enhance your workout with motivational tunes or someone who simply wants to enjoy music while lounging by the pool, there’s a wide array of waterproof headphones and earbuds designed to cater to your needs.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore over a dozen top-rated waterproof headphones and earbuds available on the market today. Each product on this list has been selected based on its unique features, design, waterproof rating, and overall performance in aquatic environments. Whether you prioritize sound quality, comfort, secure fit, or additional features like integrated MP3 players or Bluetooth connectivity, we’ll provide detailed insights to help you make an informed decision.

From bone conduction technology that allows you to hear ambient sounds while underwater to traditional earbuds with customizable ear tips for a snug fit, there’s something here for every type of water enthusiast. By the end of this guide, you’ll have a clearer understanding of what to look for when choosing waterproof headphones or earbuds, ensuring that your next aquatic adventure is accompanied by the perfect soundtrack.

1. Pyle Flextreme

Overview: Pyle Flextreme is a waterproof MP3 player bundled with waterproof earbuds, designed specifically for swimmers and water sports enthusiasts.

Key Features:

• Design: The Pyle Flextreme features a compact and ergonomic design that is suitable for underwater use. It comes with waterproof earbuds that provide a secure fit during swimming sessions.
• MP3 Player: Integrated directly into the headphones, the MP3 player eliminates the need for a separate device, making it convenient for swimmers who want a simple, all-in-one solution.
• Waterproof Rating: It boasts an IPX8 waterproof rating, allowing it to be submerged up to 3 meters underwater without any damage.

Pros:

• Ease of Use: Users appreciate the straightforward design and ease of use, as it doesn’t require connecting to external devices.
• Comfort: The ergonomic design ensures a comfortable fit during long swimming sessions.
• Sound Quality: The waterproof earbuds provide decent sound quality underwater, ensuring an enjoyable experience.

Cons:

• Limited Storage: Depending on the model, storage capacities can be limited. This may be a drawback for users who prefer extensive music libraries.

Best For: Swimmers looking for a hassle-free music solution without the need for an additional waterproofing accessory.

2. H2O Audio Interval

Overview: H2O Audio Interval headphones are specifically designed for swimmers, featuring a secure wrap-around design and compatibility with various waterproof music players.

Key Features:

• Secure Fit: These headphones are designed to stay in place during rigorous swimming sessions, ensuring comfort and stability.
• Compatibility: They are compatible with many waterproof music players, providing flexibility in choice and functionality.
• Waterproof Rating: With an IPX8 rating, the H2O Audio Interval headphones can withstand depths up to 3 meters underwater.

Pros:

• Secure Design: Users appreciate the wrap-around design that keeps the headphones in place, even during flip turns and intense swimming activities.
• Sound Quality: These headphones deliver clear sound quality underwater, enhancing the swimming experience with music or audio coaching.
• Customization: Multiple ear tip sizes are included, allowing users to find the perfect fit for their ears.

Cons:

• Dependence on Separate Player: They require a separate waterproof music player, which adds to the overall cost if one isn’t already owned.

Best For: Serious swimmers who prioritize a secure fit and good sound quality during their swim workouts.

3. Swimbuds Pro

Overview: Swimbuds Pro are waterproof earbuds designed for use with waterproof music players, offering a customizable fit and good sound quality.

Key Features:

• Customizable Fit: These earbuds come with multiple ear tip sizes and styles, allowing users to find the most comfortable and secure fit.
• Compatibility: They are designed to work seamlessly with various waterproof music players, ensuring versatility and ease of use.
• Waterproof Rating: With an IPX8 rating, Swimbuds Pro can be submerged up to 3 meters underwater without issues.

Pros:

• Comfortable: Users find them comfortable for long swimming sessions, thanks to the various ear tip options.
• Sound Quality: The earbuds deliver clear sound quality underwater, enhancing the overall swimming experience.
• Durability: They are designed to be durable and sweatproof, suitable for rigorous use in water.

Cons:

• External Player Needed: Like many other waterproof earbuds, they require a separate waterproof music player for use underwater.

Best For: Swimmers who prefer earbuds with customizable fit options and reliable performance underwater.

4. Swimbuds Flip

Overview: Swimbuds Flip earbuds feature a unique flip-down design for easy insertion and removal, catering to swimmers who value convenience.

Key Features:

• Flip-Down Design: The flip-down feature makes it easy to insert and remove the earbuds quickly, even while in the water.
• Ear Tip Options: They come with multiple ear tip sizes and styles, allowing users to choose the best fit for their ears.
• Waterproof Rating: These earbuds have an IPX8 rating, ensuring they remain functional even when submerged up to 3 meters underwater.

Pros:

• Convenient Design: Users appreciate the flip-down design, which simplifies the process of using earbuds during swimming sessions.
• Sound Quality: They deliver good sound quality underwater, enhancing the enjoyment of swimming with music or audio books.
• Compact: The compact design reduces drag and makes them easy to carry and store.

Cons:

• Separate Player Required: They require a separate waterproof music player for underwater use.

Best For: Swimmers who prioritize ease of use and quick insertion/removal of earbuds during swim sessions.

5. Sony NW-WS623

Overview: Sony NW-WS623 is an all-in-one waterproof MP3 player with integrated headphones, designed for active users who enjoy swimming and outdoor activities.

Key Features:

• Integrated MP3 Player: The Sony NW-WS623 eliminates the need for a separate device by integrating an MP3 player directly into the headphones.
• Bluetooth Connectivity: It offers Bluetooth connectivity, allowing users to stream music wirelessly from compatible devices.
• Waterproof Rating: With an IPX5/8 rating, it is both water and dustproof, suitable for swimming and other outdoor activities.

Pros:

• Versatility: Users appreciate the versatility offered by Bluetooth connectivity, allowing them to use the headphones in various settings, not just underwater.
• Sound Quality: Sony is known for its excellent sound quality, and the NW-WS623 delivers clear and crisp audio, whether underwater or on land.
• Durability: The headphones are designed to be durable, withstanding water, dust, and sweat.

Cons:

• Higher Price Point: It tends to be more expensive compared to other waterproof headphones on the market.

Best For: Active users who engage in swimming as well as other outdoor activities and value high-quality sound and versatility.

6. Finis Duo

Overview: Finis Duo stands out with its bone conduction technology, offering a unique way to enjoy audio underwater without traditional earbuds.

Key Features:

• Bone Conduction Technology: Instead of using earbuds, Finis Duo transmits audio through cheekbones, leaving ears open for situational awareness.
• Clip-On Design: It features a clip-on design that attaches easily to swim goggles, ensuring stability during swim sessions.
• Waterproof Rating: With an IPX8 rating, it can withstand depths up to 3 meters underwater without issues.

Pros:

• Environmental Awareness: Users appreciate the bone conduction technology, allowing them to hear ambient sounds while enjoying music or audio instructions underwater.
• Comfort: The clip-on design is comfortable and secure, staying in place during flips and turns.
• Ease of Use: It supports simple drag-and-drop file transfer, making it easy to update music playlists.

Cons:

• Sound Quality: Some users find that the sound quality is not as rich as traditional headphones, especially in noisy environments.

Best For: Swimmers who prioritize environmental awareness and comfort during their swim workouts.

7. Tayogo Bone Conduction

Overview: Tayogo Bone Conduction headphones offer bone conduction technology combined with Bluetooth connectivity for versatile use in water and other environments.

Key Features:

• Bone Conduction: These headphones transmit sound through cheekbones, leaving ears open to surroundings for safety and situational awareness.
• Bluetooth Connectivity: They feature Bluetooth connectivity, allowing users to wirelessly stream music from compatible devices.
• Waterproof Rating: With an IPX8 rating, they are suitable for use underwater and can withstand submersion up to 3 meters deep.

Pros:

• Safety: Users appreciate the open-ear design, which enhances safety by allowing them to hear surrounding noises while swimming.
• Comfort: They are lightweight and comfortable, ideal for long swimming sessions without causing discomfort.
• Versatility: Bluetooth connectivity adds versatility, allowing these headphones to be used in various outdoor and indoor settings.

Cons:

• Sound Quality: Some users find that the sound quality might not be as clear as traditional earbuds, especially in noisy environments.

Best For: Swimmers and water sports enthusiasts who prioritize safety and situational awareness while enjoying music or audio instructions.

8. HydroActive Short-Cord

Overview: HydroActive Short-Cord headphones are designed with a short cord to minimize drag in water, making them ideal for swimming and water sports.

Key Features:

• Short Cord Design: The short cord reduces drag in water, ensuring a smooth swimming experience without tangling.
• Ear Tip Options: Multiple ear tip sizes are included for a customizable fit, ensuring comfort and stability during swim sessions.
• Waterproof Rating: With an IPX8 rating, these headphones can withstand immersion up to 3 meters underwater without issues.

Pros:

• Minimal Drag: Swimmers appreciate the minimal drag caused by the short cord design, allowing for improved performance in the water.
• Sound Quality: They deliver clear sound quality underwater, enhancing the overall swimming experience with music or audio coaching.
• Durability: Designed to be durable and sweatproof, they withstand rigorous use in water and outdoor environments.

Cons:

• External Player Required: They require a separate waterproof music player for underwater use.

Best For: Swimmers who prioritize minimal drag and comfortable fit during their swim workouts.

9. AfterShokz Xtrainerz

Overview: AfterShokz Xtrainerz are bone conduction headphones specifically designed for swimmers, providing an open-ear design for situational awareness.

Key Features:

• Bone Conduction Technology: These headphones transmit sound through cheekbones, leaving ears open to hear surrounding sounds for safety.
• Waterproof Design: Designed specifically for swimmers, they are IP68 rated, allowing for submersion up to 2 meters deep.
• 8GB Storage: Integrated MP3 player with 8GB of storage for storing music directly on the headphones.

Pros:

• Safety: Open-ear design enhances safety by allowing swimmers to hear ambient sounds and instructions.
• Comfort: Lightweight and comfortable, suitable for extended wear during swim workouts.
• Durability: Waterproof and dustproof design ensures longevity even in harsh aquatic environments.

Cons:

• Sound Quality: Some users find that the sound quality may not be as rich as traditional headphones, especially in noisy environments.

Best For: Swimmers who prioritize safety and situational awareness, and prefer an integrated MP3 player for music storage.

10. H2O Audio Surge S+

Overview: H2O Audio Surge S+ headphones are designed for swimmers, featuring a wrap-around design for a secure fit and compatibility with various waterproof music players.

Key Features:

• Secure Fit: The wrap-around design ensures stability during swim workouts, preventing the headphones from falling out.
• Multiple Ear Tip Sizes: Includes multiple ear tip sizes for a customizable fit, enhancing comfort and performance.
• Waterproof Rating: IPX8 rated, allowing for submersion up to 3 meters deep.

Pros:

• Secure Design: Ideal for active swimmers who need headphones that stay in place during rigorous workouts.
• Sound Quality: Offers clear sound quality underwater, enhancing the swimming experience with music or audio coaching.
• Compatibility: Works with various waterproof music players, providing flexibility in choice.

Cons:

• External Player Needed: Requires a separate waterproof music player for use underwater.

Best For: Serious swimmers who value a secure fit, durability, and clear sound quality during swim sessions.

11. Swimbuds Sport

Overview: Swimbuds Sport are waterproof earbuds designed for swimmers, offering a comfortable fit and good sound quality underwater.

Key Features:

• Comfortable Fit: Designed with a variety of ear tip options for a customized fit, ensuring comfort during long swim sessions.
• Waterproof Design: IPX8 rated, allowing them to be submerged up to 3 meters deep without damage.
• Sound Quality: Delivers clear and balanced sound underwater, enhancing the swimming experience.

Pros:

• Customization: Multiple ear tip sizes and styles available to suit different ear shapes and sizes.
• Durability: Designed to be durable and sweatproof, suitable for rigorous use in water and outdoor environments.
• Compatibility: Works with various waterproof music players, offering versatility in use.

Cons:

• External Player Required: Like most waterproof earbuds, requires a separate waterproof music player for underwater use.

Best For: Swimmers who prioritize comfort, fit customization, and good sound quality during their swim workouts.

12. HydroHarmony

Overview: HydroHarmony headphones are designed specifically for swimmers, featuring a waterproof design and comfortable fit.

Key Features:

• Comfortable Fit: Designed with ergonomic ear tips for a secure and comfortable fit during swim workouts.
• Waterproof Rating: IPX8 rated, allowing for submersion up to 3 meters deep without damage.
• Sound Quality: Provides clear sound underwater, enhancing the overall swimming experience.

Pros:

• Comfort: Ergonomic design ensures a comfortable fit for long swim sessions.
• Durability: Waterproof and sweatproof construction ensures durability in aquatic environments.
• Ease of Use: Simple plug-and-play design for easy setup and use with compatible waterproof music players.

Cons:

• Limited Features: May lack advanced features like Bluetooth connectivity or integrated MP3 player.

Best For: Swimmers who prioritize comfort, durability, and straightforward functionality in their waterproof headphones.

13. Waterfi SwimActive Headphones

Overview: Waterfi SwimActive Headphones are designed for swimmers, featuring a lightweight and waterproof design.

Key Features:

• Lightweight Design: Compact and lightweight, minimizing drag and enhancing comfort during swim sessions.
• Waterproof Rating: IPX8 rated, allowing for submersion up to 3 meters deep without issues.
• Sound Quality: Provides clear and balanced sound underwater for an enjoyable swimming experience.

Pros:

• Comfort: Lightweight design ensures comfort and minimal interference during swim workouts.
• Durability: Waterproof construction ensures longevity and reliability in water and outdoor environments.
• Compatibility: Works with various waterproof music players, providing flexibility in use.

Cons:

• External Player Required: Requires a separate waterproof music player for underwater use.

Best For: Swimmers who prioritize lightweight design, comfort, and clear sound quality in their waterproof headphones.

14. Exostretch Swimbuds

Overview: Exostretch Swimbuds are waterproof earbuds designed for swimmers, offering flexibility and a comfortable fit.

Key Features:

• Flexible Fit: Designed with Exo-Flex ear loops for a secure fit and flexibility during swim workouts.
• Waterproof Design: IPX7 rated, suitable for use in water up to 1 meter deep without issues.
• Sound Quality: Provides good sound quality underwater for an enjoyable swimming experience.

Pros:

• Comfort: Exo-Flex ear loops ensure a secure and comfortable fit during swim sessions.
• Durability: Waterproof and sweatproof design ensures reliability in aquatic environments.
• Compatibility: Works with various waterproof music players, offering versatility in use.

Cons:

• Waterproof Rating: Lower waterproof rating compared to some other models on the market.

Best For: Swimmers who prioritize flexibility, comfort, and good sound quality in their waterproof earbuds.

15. Plantronics BackBeat Fit

Overview: Plantronics BackBeat Fit headphones are designed for active users, offering a waterproof and sweatproof design suitable for various outdoor activities including swimming.

Key Features:

• Comfortable Design: Lightweight and flexible, ensuring comfort during long workout sessions.
• Waterproof Rating: IP57 rated, offering protection against water and sweat, suitable for use in various outdoor environments.
• Sound Quality: Provides good sound quality for both music and calls during activities.

Pros:

• Comfort: Designed for comfort and stability during active use, including swimming and other sports.
• Durability: Waterproof and sweatproof construction ensures durability in harsh outdoor conditions.
• Battery Life: Offers long battery life for extended use during workouts.

Cons:

• Water Resistance: While suitable for water and sweat, may not be fully submersible like higher-rated IPX8 headphones.

Best For: Active users who engage in various outdoor activities, including swimming, and value comfort, durability, and good sound quality in their headphones.

16. AGPTEK Waterproof Earbuds

Overview: AGPTEK Waterproof Earbuds are designed for swimmers, featuring a lightweight and waterproof design with a comfortable fit.

Key Features:

• Comfortable Fit: Ergonomic design with multiple ear tip sizes for a secure and comfortable fit during swim sessions.
• Waterproof Design: IPX8 rated, allowing for submersion up to 3 meters deep without damage.
• Sound Quality: Provides clear and balanced sound underwater for an enhanced swimming experience.

Pros:

• Comfort: Designed for comfort and stability during swim workouts, minimizing interference and ensuring a secure fit.
• Durability: Waterproof construction ensures longevity and reliability in water and outdoor environments.
• Compatibility: Works with various waterproof music players, providing flexibility in use.

Cons:

• External Player Required: Requires a separate waterproof music player for underwater use.

Best For: Swimmers who prioritize comfort, durability, and clear sound quality in their waterproof earbuds.

17. H2O Audio Sonar

Overview: H2O Audio Sonar headphones are designed for swimmers, featuring a waterproof and streamlined design for minimal drag.

Key Features:

• Streamlined Design: Minimalist and streamlined for reduced drag and enhanced performance during swim workouts.
• Waterproof Rating: IPX7 rated, offering protection against water immersion up to 1 meter deep.
• Sound Quality: Provides good sound quality underwater for an enjoyable swimming experience.

Pros:

• Minimal Drag: Streamlined design ensures minimal interference and drag during swim sessions, improving performance.
• Comfort: Lightweight construction ensures comfort and stability during long swim workouts.
• Durability: Waterproof and sweatproof design ensures reliability in aquatic environments.

Cons:

• Waterproof Rating: Lower waterproof rating compared to some other models on the market.

Best For: Swimmers who prioritize streamlined design, minimal drag, and good sound quality in their waterproof headphones.

18. Bone Conduction Waterproof MP3

Overview: Bone Conduction Waterproof MP3 headphones use bone conduction technology for underwater audio transmission, leaving ears open for situational awareness.

Key Features:

• Bone Conduction Technology: Transmits sound through cheekbones, leaving ears open for safety and environmental awareness.
• Integrated MP3 Player: Built-in MP3 player for storing music directly on the headphones, eliminating the need for a separate device.
• Waterproof Rating: IPX8 rated, allowing for submersion up to 3 meters deep without damage.

Pros:

• Safety: Bone conduction technology enhances safety by allowing swimmers to hear surrounding sounds.
• Comfort: Lightweight and comfortable, suitable for extended wear during swim sessions.
• Ease of Use: Integrated MP3 player with simple controls for easy operation underwater.

Cons:

• Sound Quality: Some users may find that the sound quality is not as rich as traditional headphones, especially in noisy environments.

Best For: Swimmers who prioritize safety, situational awareness, and an integrated MP3 player for underwater music storage.

19. JBL Endurance Dive

Overview: JBL Endurance Dive headphones are designed for active users, featuring a waterproof and wireless design suitable for swimming and other outdoor activities.

Key Features:

• Wireless Design: Bluetooth connectivity for wireless music streaming from compatible devices, offering freedom of movement.
• Waterproof Rating: IPX7 rated, offering protection against water immersion up to 1 meter deep.
• Sound Quality: JBL signature sound provides clear and balanced audio for an enjoyable listening experience.

Pros:

• Comfort: Designed for comfort and stability during active use, including swimming and other sports.
• Durability: Waterproof and sweatproof construction ensures reliability in aquatic and outdoor environments.
• Battery Life: Long battery life for extended use during workouts and outdoor activities.

Cons:

• Water Resistance: While suitable for water immersion, may not be fully submersible like higher-rated IPX8 headphones.

Best For: Active users who engage in various outdoor activities, including swimming, and value wireless connectivity, durability, and good sound quality in their headphones.

20. FX-Sport VRX

Overview: FX-Sport VRX headphones are designed for athletes, offering a waterproof and durable design with a customizable audio experience.

Key Features:

• Customizable Audio: Built-in coach functionality with customizable audio workouts and training programs.
• Waterproof Rating: IPX7 rated, offering protection against water immersion up to 1 meter deep.
• Sound Quality: Provides clear and immersive audio for enhanced training and workout sessions.

Pros:

• Training Programs: Integrated training programs and audio coaching for a personalized workout experience.
• Durability: Waterproof and sweatproof construction ensures reliability during intense workouts and outdoor activities.
• Comfort: Designed for comfort and stability during active use, including swimming and other sports.

Cons:

• Water Resistance: While suitable for water immersion, may not be fully submersible like higher-rated IPX8 headphones.

Best For: Athletes and fitness enthusiasts who engage in various sports and activities, including swimming, and value customizable audio workouts, durability, and comfort in their headphones.

Conclusion

Choosing the right waterproof headphones or earbuds depends on your specific needs and preferences, such as comfort, sound quality, waterproof rating, and additional features like integrated MP3 players or Bluetooth connectivity. By understanding the key features and benefits of each product listed above, you can make an informed decision that enhances your swimming and outdoor activities with music, audio coaching, or ambient sound awareness.

When selecting waterproof headphones or earbuds, consider factors such as their waterproof rating (IPX7 vs. IPX8), comfort level (earbuds vs. headphones), sound quality, battery life, and additional features that may enhance your overall experience. Investing in quality waterproof headphones or earbuds can significantly improve your enjoyment and performance during swim workouts and other outdoor activities, so choose wisely based on your individual needs and preferences.