10 Best Running Earbuds 2025 in the United States

The Apple AirPods 4 Wireless Earbuds offer a blend of comfort, advanced features, and solid performance for runners. The redesigned shape and shorter stem contribute to a more comfortable and secure fit, which is essential for running. Additionally, the earbuds are rated IP54 for dust, sweat, and water resistance, making them suitable for sweaty workouts and outdoor runs in various weather conditions.

The inclusion of Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) helps block out unwanted background noise, providing an immersive listening experience. However, the battery life with ANC enabled is up to 4 hours, which might be insufficient for extended runs without recharging. Without ANC, the earbuds offer up to 30 hours of total listening time using the charging case, which is more suitable for longer durations.

The earbuds' sound quality is enhanced by the H2 chip, offering features like Personalized Spatial Audio and Adaptive EQ that dynamically adjust the audio based on your ear shape and listening environment. The Bluetooth 5.3 wireless technology ensures stable connectivity, which is crucial during physical activities. Furthermore, quick-press controls and voice commands with Siri allow for easy operation without needing to constantly handle your device. One potential drawback is the necessity to purchase the USB-C charge cable separately. The Apple AirPods 4 are a strong contender for running earbuds, combining comfort, sound quality, and water resistance, with a minor setback in battery life when ANC is used continuously.

The Bose QuietComfort Bluetooth Earbuds are a strong contender for running earbuds with several appealing features. They boast excellent sound quality, featuring deep bass and world-renowned active noise cancellation, making for an immersive listening experience even in noisy environments. The IPX4 rating ensures they can handle sweat and light rain, which is essential for runners.

The earbuds offer up to 8.5 hours of playtime on a single charge, and a quick 20-minute charge provides an additional 2 hours, which is convenient for longer runs or workouts. Fit and comfort are well-addressed with multiple sizes of eartips and stability bands included, ensuring a secure fit during activities. Connectivity is robust, thanks to Bluetooth 5.3 and multipoint connectivity, allowing for seamless switching between devices within a 30-foot range.

The customizable touch controls and the Bose QCE app enhance usability by providing easy access to sound settings and device management. However, some users might find the earbuds a bit bulky, and the price point might be higher compared to other models in the market. Additionally, while the noise cancellation is excellent, it might not be ideal for runners who prefer to stay aware of their surroundings for safety reasons. But for those who prioritize sound quality and noise cancellation, these earbuds are a great choice.

The SHOKZ OpenRun Pro 2 is a solid choice for runners who want to stay aware of their surroundings while enjoying music or calls. Thanks to its open-ear design with bone conduction technology, it doesn’t block your ears, making it safer for outdoor workouts. The dual drivers deliver a surprisingly rich sound with clear highs and deeper bass than typical bone conduction earbuds, which users will appreciate during runs. Comfort is a strong point here—the lightweight, ergonomic frame with memory wire fits securely without slipping, even during intense exercise.

Battery life is impressive, offering up to 12 hours on a single charge, which easily covers long runs or multiple sessions. Water resistance means sweat or light rain won’t stop your workout. Connectivity is reliable with Bluetooth 5.3 and a decent 33-foot range, pairing well with various devices. Calls come through clearly thanks to dual microphones with wind noise reduction, which is great for staying connected on the go.

On the downside, these earbuds don’t have active noise cancellation, so you’ll still hear a lot of outside noise—ideal for safety but not for blocking distractions if you prefer immersive sound. Also, the open-ear design results in some sound leakage, so they might not be perfect for very noisy environments or shared spaces. If you prioritize comfort, safety, and solid audio during runs or cycling, the SHOKZ OpenRun Pro 2 covers these bases well.