10 Best Running Headphones 2025 in the United States

The SHOKZ New OpenRun Pro 2 headphones are designed with runners and athletes in mind, offering a secure and comfortable fit thanks to their ergonomic design and Ni-Ti alloy memory wire. The open-ear design keeps you aware of your surroundings, enhancing safety during outdoor activities. Sound quality is a highlight, with dual drivers delivering clear highs and deep bass, and customizable EQ modes available through the Shokz App to tailor your audio experience.

Battery life is impressive, providing up to 12 hours of playback, which is ample for extended workouts and runs. Additionally, these headphones are sweat and water-resistant, making them suitable for intense exercises and various weather conditions. Connectivity is solid, with Bluetooth 5.3 ensuring a stable wireless connection within a 33-foot range.

The controls are easy to use with buttons for volume and playback, and the built-in microphones with AI noise reduction ensure clear calls even in windy environments. However, they lack active noise cancellation, which might be a drawback in very noisy surroundings. The open-ear design might not be suitable for those who prefer complete immersion in their music. Despite these minor downsides, the SHOKZ New OpenRun Pro 2 headphones are an excellent choice for runners and fitness enthusiasts looking for a reliable, high-quality audio companion.

The Bose QuietComfort Bluetooth Earbuds offer a premium experience with several strengths and a few areas to consider. These earbuds feature active noise cancellation, making them ideal for blocking out distractions during runs or workouts. The sound quality is excellent, delivering deep bass and rich audio to enhance your listening experience.

With an IPX4 rating, they are resistant to water and sweat, which is crucial for active users. The fit is customizable with multiple eartip and stability band sizes, ensuring comfort and security during movement. The battery life of up to 8.5 hours is impressive, and a quick 20-minute charge can extend playtime by 2 hours, which is handy for those on the go.

Additionally, Bluetooth 5.3 technology allows for a stable connection and the ability to connect to multiple devices simultaneously, adding convenience. The built-in microphone and touch controls provide easy access to manage calls and music without hassle. However, the earbuds might be on the heavier side for some users, weighing 70 grams. The IPX4 rating, while adequate for sweat, may not provide enough protection for more intense water exposure. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds are a solid choice for runners and fitness enthusiasts looking for high-quality sound and effective noise cancellation.

The SHOKZ New OpenFit 2 Open-Ear Headphones offer a unique experience with their open-ear design, making them ideal for runners who need to stay aware of their surroundings. Fit and comfort stand out with lightweight earhooks and a personalized fit, ensuring comfort during long runs. The IP55 rating provides good water and sweat resistance, making them suitable for various weather conditions and intense workouts.

Sound quality is enhanced with DualBoost composite drivers and OpenBass 2.0, delivering clear mids and highs along with rich bass. Despite the open-ear form factor, the DirectPitch 2.0 technology helps maintain a private listening experience. Battery life is impressive, offering up to 11 hours on a single charge and up to 48 hours with the charging case, which is beneficial for long training sessions. A quick 10-minute charge provides an extra 2 hours of playback, which is very convenient.

Though these headphones lack active noise cancellation, the dual noise-canceling microphones ensure clear phone calls. The multifunction buttons and the Shokz App allow easy control over various functions and customization. However, the absence of noise cancellation might be a drawback for those who prefer a more immersive listening experience. These headphones are best suited for runners and outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize awareness of their environment and comfort over noise isolation.