It's a cold pool deck, and the thought of cold water might not be particularly inviting when you think about your 2-hour-swim practice or gym session. A healthy mix of high-tempo BPM and aggressive EDM tunes on your favorite workout playlist could actually come in handy. For this, you can always rely on the best headphones for swimming and workouts to help bring back your mojo and awesomeness into the game.
The best swimming headphones and waterproof earbuds are not only fully waterproof but are also specially designed with underwater audio. Many sports headphones are marketed as water-resistant and waterproof to a certain degree, but there's a lot more you should consider if you want the perfect soundtrack for your swim or workout session.
What Are Waterproof Earphones/Headphones?
Basically, waterproof headphones come with a watertight internal circuit system and components. A hydrophobic coating with a low-energy surface is used to prevent water from entering. In addition, the hydrophobic coating repels water particles by making the water beads glide off the surface.
The coating can be either sprayed as a military-grade nano-coating or thin film of the chemical coating produced by using plasma activation technology in a vacuum environment. The bond created comes in a nanoscale, making it physically next to impossible to scrape off this protective layer.
Additionally, as much as we'd all love the idea of leaving our smartphones at the end of the lane to broadcasting music directly from the phone to our headphones via Bluetooth, Bluetooth connectivity doesn't work in water.
Bluetooth headphones will work pretty well through the air, but on the other hand, they don't work in water. Swimming while listening to your music means that you'll have to drag and drop MP3 songs or download playlists onto your device.
Wired Or Wireless Headphones for Swimming?
Currently, due to the limitation of Bluetooth connectivity, there are no wireless headphones that can effectively work underwater. The range, which is about 10m on average on land, is reduced to mere inches when submerged.
So, you should probably stick to wired models if you want something that works underwater because nothing beats the sound fidelity that you get from a stable and solid connection. Additionally, you also get minimal compatibility issues, which also saves you a few bucks off without the Bluetooth feature.
An Integrated MP3 Player
Most people overlook the fact that you'll also need a separate and equally-waterproof MP3 player as you use for wired waterproof headphones. This little hiccup is solved with a simple yet ingenious solution - an integrated MP3 player.
8GB of memory on an integrated MP3 player can carry approximately 2000 tracks. Most Headphones MP3 players also offer an expandable storage option with the memory card slots. The ideal MP3 player comes with controls for volume control, playback, and power that you can easily operate underwater.
Waterproof Earphones Vs. Water-Resistant Headphones
If you're looking to go for a swim while you listen to your music, the last thing you need is a water-resistant device. So ideally, you're looking for the top waterproof headphones or earphones that can be used underwater while swimming. Ideally, the right headphones for you should have either an IPX68/ IPX70 rating.
Only headphones that are rated fully waterproof can stand up to full water submersion. Note that some headphones will only be labeled as either sweat-resistant or water-resistant, but don't get carried away just yet - that doesn't necessarily mean that they are waterproof. These will work great if you get a little splash in the rain or if you're probably sweaty while using them as you run, but they're definitely not designed for watersports or swimming.
What are the best headphones for swimming?
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1. Sony NWWS413LM 4GB Sports Wearable MP3 Player
- 4GB Sports Wearable MP3 Player, Waterproof: For use in salt & fresh water up to 2-meters...
- Ergonomically designed for a secure fit and long-lasting comfort, Ambient noise function...
- Drag & drop from iTunes for Mac or Windows, Playback MP3, WMA, AAC, and Linear PCM Audio...
The Sony NW-WS413LM is not only a wearable MP3 player from a reputable brand, but it's also one of the best waterproof headphones. It packs some pretty neat features that come packed in a sleek, waterproof and ultra-portable package. You can be assured of at least 12 hours of nonstop playback and an incredible charge rate of 3 minutes for a 60-minute playback.
Alternatively, you can also get a blistering 36 minutes on a full charge. The Sony NW-WS413LM comes as waterproof earbuds with a proprietary charging clip that will need utmost care with every use. The flexible headband design allows a great snug fit that also works well for relatively large-sized heads and an adjustment loop for smaller ones.
These wired earbuds work great with iTunes-downloaded tracks and also feature a drag-and-drop interface which comes in handy when loading music. With 4GB of memory storage, you know that you won't be running out of songs as you wade through your workout.
These swimming earbuds also feature an ambient noise mode that can simply be activated by using the button. This feature makes use of a microphone that listens to the surrounding noise and plays it back, so you can keep track of what's happening around you.
Also included in the package are 2 sets of ear tips; regular and swimming ear tips, 7 pairs in total. The swimming ear tips come with a thin protective film that might desensitize the quality of music, so aftermarket swimming tips might be better if you prefer a muffle-free music experience.
Additionally, the Sony NW-WS413LM is specially designed to seamlessly operate in saltwater; after all, swimming with the fish might not be the worst idea after all. Overall, compared to other waterproof headphones, these are by far the best waterproof headphones for swimming.
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2. Pyle MP3 Player Bluetooth Headphones
- FULLY SUBMERSIBLE: Waterproof and durable (IPX8) the MP3 player and headphones are...
- MUSIC FILE MANAGEMENT: Easy drag and drop files from iTunes for Mac or Windows and enjoy...
- FLEXIBLE NON INTERFERING HEADPHONE: Pyle’s flextreme mp3 player is universally sized...
- 8GB FLASH MEMORY: Quick connect combination charging and data transfer cable that save...
- WATER BLOCKING EARPHONE: Pyle 2 in 1 Mp3 with headphone has water blocking earbuds so,...
Compared to other swimming headphones, the Pyle MP3 player Bluetooth headphone takes it up a notch higher as a worthy contender, which is both lightweight and portable. In addition, it has an ergonomic band design and minimal footprint construction.
These waterproof headphones feature a band design that you can either configure as a headband or neckband, depending on your preferences. For waterproof headphones that are also a budget pick, you'd be surprised that the Pyle MP3 player Bluetooth headphone combo does deliver some pretty decent sound quality, even while underwater.
No one could actually swim for hours on end, so the 10-hour battery life on Pyle MP3 Player Bluetooth headphone combos is a solid pack that ensures that you're set for each of your practice sessions. That right there is some incredible value for money, especially since it only takes 2 hrs to charge up fully.
The Pyle MP3 player Bluetooth waterproof headphones are a combo that also doubles up as a Bluetooth headset. While virtually useless underwater, they are the best waterproof headphones for activities such as jogging and cycling, with great compatibility with universal smart devices such as Android phones, iPhones, tablets, and so much more.
If you prefer a non-Bluetooth version, there's a variant that's also available at a heftier discount as well. It comes with 3 ear tip sizes for dry use, but only 2 are for swimming. Like everything else, these waterproof headphones also come with their downside; it has a rather impractical ear tip size allocation, so that you might have some issues with the fitting. So to save yourself the trouble, you should probably consider shopping for other compatible ear tips that fit. But, overall, it's the best Bluetooth budget pick for your workouts.
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3. AGPTEK Waterproof Headphones
- IPX8 Waterproof: High-level water-resistant makes it suitable for sports such as bathing,...
- Coiled Earphone Cords: Convenient use without any tangle(16-35cm extended length). There...
- Extension Cord: Comes with 3.5mm male to female stereo audio cable(1m long). Extends the...
- High Sound Quality: Deliver clear crispy sound and correct intermediate frequency. Ensures...
- Wide Compatibility: The wired earphone works with smart phones, tablets, MP3/MP4 players,...
AGPTEK waterproof headphones are one of the best waterproof headphones that are offered by Amazon. Moreover, as a relatively new portable audio player in the market, they are also one of the most affordable waterproof headphones. What's more, even though AGPTEK waterproof headphones come at a great price, they still deliver some decent music quality.
The crisp and clear quality sound is transferred through a proper frequency balance of the lows, mids, and highs as well. This also provides noise isolation as well, so unlike regular headphones, these waterproof headphones for swimming create a whole new musical experience while submerged.
Swimming with tangled cords is not only dangerous but can also be a nightmare, so AGPTEK has coiled earphone cords to cater to this. The earphone cords have a length that goes up to 35 cm and coils back to 16cm. Unfortunately, the AGPTEK waterproof headphones don't come with a built-in MP3 player. However, there's a bundled version, and AGPTEK also has its own waterproof MP3 player, also offered on Amazon.
The AGPTEK MP3 swimming headphones also give you 8GB of internal memory, which can approximately hold up to 2000 tracks. With this, you also get to shuffle them. Additionally, it's compatible with MP2, WAV and WMA file formats. Finally, it gives you an astounding 18 hours of good sound quality on medium volume, at just 1.5 hours of charge.
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4. SWMIUSK Waterproof Headphones
- Multiple sizes silicone earbud tips for choose to help you find the best fit to seal out...
- 120cm long cord good for swimming tubes enjoy music.
- Additionally, our cord clips allow for greater stability with your swim cap or goggle...
- Ergonomically Designed: Waterproof and comfortable for hours on end. The secure, over ear...
- Friendly Tips: You’d better rinse with fresh water and wipe off water after using it,...
High-quality waterproof headphones shouldn't always be expensive, and the SWMIUSK waterproof headphones prove just that. These are a great pick an excellent choice for your daily workout, whether you're going to be underwater or not. If you don't have a waterproof MP3 player ready, then don't worry since these headphones also come with the waterproof MP3 player in the bundle.
The SWMIUSK swimming headphones are ergonomically designed to ensure comfortable wear even for extended hours. Also included in the bundle are 4 different-sized tips that you can try as you find the best match.
The IPX8 rating on this pair means that they're are fully 100% waterproof, so you continue listening to your favorite jams while on those daily laps, swimming, surfing, or even while jogging in the rain.
And, unlike other headphones, these waterproof earphones have a loud enough volume, even when submerged underwater. Moreover, this sound on these waterproof headphones doesn't get muffled or distorted since there are just built for swimming and virtually any other sport.
The waterproof earbuds also come with a short cord, which comes in a pretty hand while you swim. But it also comes with the extension cord for days when you want to use them on the ground.
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5. HydroActive Waterproof Headphones
- Our HydroActive is a new generation of waterproof headphones that combine an extremely...
- Best used for: swimming laps, SUP, kayaking, aqua-aerobics, canoeing and most other...
- Outstanding Features: Easy to get on and off; wrap-around design doesn’t interfere with...
- What’s New: Multiple protection chambers make this one of the most watertight of all...
- One Year Warranty
Underwater Audio is back on the best waterproof headphones for swimming list with their new HydroActive short-cord waterproof headphones. With these, you get a straightforward pair of swimming earbuds with everything you might need, from sculling to that heated practice session.
They have the best waterproof earbuds that feature a special 'dry chamber' to keep water out in the event of an ear flooding. Through this, it keeps a dry barrier between the water and the electronic part of the HydroActive earphones without impairing your playback.
In addition to that, it has heavy-duty plastic that's used on its casing. At the same time, the para-aramid synthetic fiber reinforces its wiring to help resist the effects of chemical/mineral leach and wear that's brought on by underwater drag.
These waterproof headphones come in a striped design that gives you a snug and comfortable fit, while the unique funnel shape of its housing directs soundwaves for a much fuller sound. In addition, its short cord to the 3.5 mm jack ensures you a no-hassle wear experience.
The HydroActive short-cord headphones also come in 4 different styles, with 3 specially designed for swimming: the Ergo tips for the outer ear, Tree tips with the triple flange that go deep, and Fin tips are a hybrid between the 2. With this great selection of tips, you can be sure of finding that sweet spot for a fit that stays put even while you pull the most sudden of turns.
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6. Tayogo Waterproof Bone Conduction Headphones
The Tayogo bone conduction waterproof headphones are the first of their kind on the best waterproof headphones list. However, unlike other bone conduction headphones, it uses an advanced innovative bone conduction tech that brings convention and functionality to a whole new level.
Unlike other in-ear headphones, these bone conduction waterproof headphones for swimming won't need you to wear any kind of ear tips, which might be a little uncomfortable for some. Instead, it directs vibrations to your cheekbones, which effectively transmits music without any direct ear contact. Additionally, this works pretty well for people with hearing problems.
Other than the bone conduction, you can always enhance the sound quality by using some earplugs, which also help eliminate ambient noise from entering your ear for a fuller sonic experience. Tayogo also sports a dedicated player with 8GBs of memory so that you can enjoy approximately 2000 songs during your swimming lap. Additionally, the controls are large and streamlined, making them so much easier to operate and accessible.
The Tayogo bone conduction waterproof headphones come in a rigid, extra-durable housing that you can feel is premium quality. Additionally, it's designed to withstand 140°F, with a 5m depth limit.
On average, it has 5 hours of continuous playback in battery life, so it's a little on the short side. Its lithium battery will also need charging at least once every 2 months. Otherwise, the battery life might depreciate.
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7. Swimbuds Flip Waterproof Earphones
- Our innovative design rests in your ear at the optimal angle for drag reduction. The short...
- The "L" jack offers increased durability, and protects against cord breakdown, and our...
- An IPX8 rating means that SYRYN and Swimbuds Flip are submersible indefinitely up to 10...
- Swimbuds Flip will maintain a comfortable watertight seal throughout your entire swim!
- Our short-cord design eliminates tangles and drag, and the included extension cable offers...
Swimbuds Flip waterproof ear headphones are Underwater Audio's answer to budget-conscious consumers. If you're on the hunt for decent ear headphones at a great price, these are definitely worth your time. The Swimbuds waterproof headphones for swimming come in a short reinforced cord.
Pioneered by the famous premium Swimbuds Sport waterproof headphones and Hydroactive models, the Underwater Audio brand aims to give you the same level of quality and performance at a much friendlier price, which brings us to where the Swimbuds Flip headphones were born.
The Swimbuds Flip in-ear headphones feature a sturdy construction and rugged cord quality, which are built to stand up to the incessant wear and tear that comes with each use. The cord also comes with an extra-thick wiring system and an additional L-shaped jack for better ergonomic use underwater. Ergonomically, this design helps create less drag for easy operation, which makes the SYRYN player the perfect pair for a seamless swim experience.
The Swimbuds Flip also comes with a unique chamber shape that greatly helps improve your listening experience when submerged under the water. Through this, soundwaves are directed optimally to 'amplify' the sound levels.
As you'd expect, the clarity is top-notch with great sound quality that's balanced between the lows, mids, and highs. So you can always trust that you'll be paddling around swimming laps in rhythm with your jams.
Like other headphones by the Underwater Audio brand, the Swimbuds Flip swimming headphones also come with their signature premium tree-style tips that also feature the triple-flanged design. This acts as an impermeable seal that will stand even through the most demanding of routines.
It comes in different sizes, the S, M, and L, for that perfect Cinderella slipper fit for your ears. Overall, these are the best waterproof headphones by the Underwater Audio brand that are crazy affordable but still give you decent service.
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8. FINIS Duo Bone Conduction Headphones and MP3 Player
- BONE CONDUCTION AUDIO TRANSMISSION: Amazingly clear sound in the water without the use of...
- SUPPORTS MP3 AND WMA AUDIO FORMATS: Compatible with iTunes; listen to music, audiobooks,...
- 4GB OF STORAGE: Stores approximately up to 1000 songs or 60 hours of playback; Mac OS...
- INTEGRATED CLIP DESIGN: Secures the device to goggle straps to rest on the cheekbones for...
- WATERPROOF IPX8: Up to 3 meters and 30 minutes; sound is clearest when submerged in water
The FINIS Duo bone conduction headphones and an MP3 player comes in as the second runners-up that use bone conduction technology. Bone conduction headphones are popularly known to offer a whole plethora of benefits that include a seamless fit, lesser chances of failure. They are most optimal for people with hearing concerns. However, like others, the FINIS Duo might also need some getting used to since it might feel a bit awkward at first.
With 4GB storage and 7 hours of playback, the FINIS duo will definitely have worked for you before you run out of juice. The FINIS Duo bone conduction headphones and the MP3 player also comes with extra-large buttons that are well-placed on the side to make them easy to access and operate as you swim.
It even supports Apple file formats so that you can go a little crazy with your song choices on this one. The FINIS Duo also comes with a strong magnetic dock for charging or transferring files which ensures proper contact at all times to prevent file corruption or charge interruptions.
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9. H2O Audio Stream 2
H2O Audio came up with these promising waterproof MP3 players and headphones combo. One of its key features is the fact that it also supports Apple iTunes and all the other music formats. Additionally, you can play your music either via Bluetooth or from its internal memory storage.
The H2O Audio Stream 2 headphones are one of the best waterproof headphones when it comes to getting functionality and versatility from the same device. Some waterproof headphones just leave it at playing music underwater without giving the audio quality so much thought; however, the H2O Audio Stream 2 takes the underwater listening experience to a whole new level.
It also uses headphone technology that uses premium quality sound to ensure the best possible sound is delivered even 12 feet underwater. Evidently, the hydrodynamic design on the H2O Audio Stream 2 has swimmers in mind, so you can comfortably use it during your swimming laps.
The H2O Audio Stream 2 also comes with a built-in rotating clip that you can use to easily attach to your swimming goggles. It also has its control buttons for volume and tracks conveniently located. The included waterproof MP3 player on the H2O Audio Stream 2 also gives you 10 hours of continuous playback time.
Other than its 8GB capacity, the H2O Audio Stream 2 also supports all music formats, which include M4A, MP3, WMA, FLAC, or APE. Additionally, you can easily drag and drop all your favorite songs from your PC to enjoy them while you train.
Since the H2O Audio Stream 2 also has a Bluetooth signal connection, you can also connect to your smartphone and stream music from your Spotify or Pandora if you ever feel like trying out a new playlist. Impressively, the H2O Audio Stream 2 has a wireless range of up to 30 feet or 10 meters.
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Waterproof Swimming Accessories That Work Great With Waterproof Headphones
To accompany your new pair of waterproof headphones, here are some accessories you can get to enhance your underwater audio experience.
i) Fitgoo Earbud Insertion Helper
- Includes: 0.5 oz FitGoo earbud insertion helper (2 tubes)
- Perfect for creating a watertight seal with waterproof headphones during swimming and...
- Do NOT use Ergos (clear) earbuds with FitGoo lubricant.
The name reminds you of a health junky, right? But, Fitgoo is definitely something you should check out if you want to protect your headphones underwater. It's a waterproofing gel that you can apply on the ear tips of your headphone to create a watertight seal.
Now you really don't have to endure flooded ear canals and ruined swimming sessions with the Fitgoo Earbud Insertion Helper. Additionally, you can also use it to outline the goggle strap frames for that same effect.
ii) Ironman Delphin Music Player By Underwater Audio
- Includes: 0.5 oz FitGoo earbud insertion helper (2 tubes)
- Perfect for creating a watertight seal with waterproof headphones during swimming and...
- Do NOT use Ergos (clear) earbuds with FitGoo lubricant.
Underwater Audio is definitely killing it on this list. The Ironman Delphin is another one of their products on this list. If you prefer something a little more premium, then this is an intuitive waterproof music player that you should definitely go by.
It uses an Android operating system, just like your phone or tablet would, so you can download your playlist from your favorite stream music platforms like Pandora and Spotify. Interestingly, you won't need a PC to download your music-a few taps on its touch screen interface, and you're good to go. In addition, it has external buttons for playback control that are great for underwater access, while the built-in clip comes in handy while you swim.
iv) Waterproof iPod Shuffle By Underwater Audio
- Bundle includes: Underwater Audio waterproof iPod + Swim buds extra-short cord waterproof...
- Listen without interruption: Swim buds hassle free extra-shot cord doesn’t get caught or...
- Time tested process: Underwater Audio's swimming iPod is waterproof, corrosion-proof,...
- Genuine Apple iPod shuffle (waterproofed by Underwater Audio): 15 hours of battery life,...
- The Underwater Audio iPod: Your swimming iPod, surfing iPod, paddle boarding iPod,...
Underwater Audio does it yet again, with an offering that comes in a more familiar and nostalgic format. Remember the iconic iPod Shuffle? Underwater Audio now tweaks it a little while sporting a 2GB of storage on an impressive 15-hour playtime, classic playback buttons and control, exciting color variations, all in a full-waterproof device, which also comes in a voice-over function.
How To Choose The Right Waterproof Headphones for A Swim?
A) Earbuds Vs. Boneless Conduction?
As you'd imagine, waterproof headphones for swimming have indeed come a long way in recent years. The challenge was always: how to get sound into the ear while water persistently tries to muffle it down?
Bone conduction technology is one ingenious method that bypasses the challenge of keeping water out while pumping music directly into your brain through your cheekbone. Overall, as another huge benefit that comes with bone conduction, this method reduces the number of wires that are dangling around your head while you swim.
B) Does It Come With Different earbuds sizes?
If you're a swimmer who prefers to go for your swim laps with ear buds or like working out with music to boost your energy, then you'd most definitely relate to the challenge that comes with finding headphones that perfectly fit their ears. Since ear canals come in different sizes and shapes, it's always best to go with a brand that also packs a variety of ear tip sizes so you can get a snug and secure fit while you swim. The headphones we've always listed universally includes multiple tip sizes to help give your ears the fit it deserves.
C) What's the IPX Rating?
The best waterproof headphones are the ones with the most waterproof rating. So as you're trying to figure out which ones are the best for you, always check out the key features such as IPX waterproofing rating. Always keep in mind that water-resistant doesn't mean waterproof.
These are 2 very different ratings. Water-resistant devices are best suited for moist environments, for instance, as you're exercising and sweat a lot. Ideally, this would include rates from IPX3-IPX7. If you intend to submerge your device for swimming, shop for music players and headphones that are rated IPX8/IPX8 +.
Any lower rate than this is not designed for submersion in water since it will damage your device. Additionally, note that anything with an IPX7 rating is limited to 30 minutes of use continuously and not any deeper than 3 ft. There's a new IPX9K rating, but it's still yet to be officially used in any kind of audio equipment.
Frequently Questions On the Best Headphones for Swimming
1. Can Airpods be used to play music in swimming?
No, because they're not waterproof. They only have a water-resistant rating, so you can only stream music and use them while you train outdoors as you sweat or in the rain.
2. Do swimmers need to wear headphones?
Swimming can be an intensely chaotic affair with all the noise and distractions. This could present a problem for swimming competitors who are trying to 'go in to themselves,' visualize and focus solely on their race. Headphones are an ideal way to block out some of that chaos, plus it generally helps discourage everyone from trying to talk to you.
