Waterproof headphones are a must for any swimmer, but it’s important to understand that not all waterproof headphones are created equal. The level of waterproofing, or IPX rating, will determine whether the headphones can withstand laps in the pool or just splashes around the pool deck. In addition to the IPX rating, build quality is another essential factor to consider. Poorly built swimming headphones with low alloy content (for stainless steel housing) can lead to corrosion and mineral deposits. Thick cable insulation and gold-plated output jacks provide extra protection during extended periods of use underwater. When it comes to picking different types of swimming headphones, such as in-ear or bone conduction, it all comes down to:
the level of sound quality you’re looking for how open you want your ear to be.
In-ear headphones come with eartips that can secure a better seal with the swimmer’s ears. This also improves the sound quality of the listening experience. On the other hand, bone conduction swimming headphones use vibration via the cheekbones to transfer sound to the ears. This is a great way to keep your ears open while swimming. However, the listening experience will not be as enjoyable as the in-ear headphones. There are many other factors to keep in mind for a good pair of swimming headphones. This buyer’s guide will help you choose the best pair of waterproof headphones for swimming.
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What Are Waterproof Headphones? Buyer’s Guide For Waterproof Headphones Best Waterproof Headphones for Swimming Notable Mention Swimming Accessories For Better Audio That You Can Buy
What Are Waterproof Headphones?
Waterproof headphones are basically regular headphones that had their internal circuitry and components waterproofed. Enter the hydrophobic coating. The coating repels water particles by having a low-energy surface that promotes the formation of water beads that resist and glide off the headphones’ surface. This can be done by either spraying a thin film of chemical coating, or a military-grade nanocoating produced by way of a vacuum environment and plasma activation technology, which are more rugged as the bond is in the nanoscale, making it almost physically impossible to scrape the protective layer off.
IPX Rating
With that comes the IPX rating, the industry standard for waterproofing. The IPX rating starts from IPX0 (virtually non-water-resistant), and goes up to IPX9K (fully waterproof). It is important to note the difference between water-resistant and waterproof. Water-resistant devices come with a rating of IPX3 to IPX7, with an increasing amount of resistant to droplets and sprays of moisture. On the other hand, waterproof devices are rated IPX7 to IPX9k. They allow for full immersion in water with increasing depth and time. Now that you have the basics of waterproofing down to a tee, strap on your goggles, as we dive right down to the nitty-gritty details of purchasing headphones that are suitable for swimming.
Buyer’s Guide For Waterproof Headphones
Considering the right factors before jumping the gun is very important, as wasting money on an underperforming product or an overpriced rip-off often leads to buyer’s remorse. Consider asking yourself these questions if you’re set on getting one.
What’s the IPX rating? Is it wired or wireless? Does it feature built-in controls? And how accessible are they? How does it stay securely on your while you swim? Will it affect the form of your swimming strokes?
Important Factors To Consider Before Buying A Pair of Waterproof Headphones
If you’ve made it this far, kudos! But before you go rushing to your trusty online shop, take heed. Here are some factors answering the questions above, and other important details to consider before clicking the checkout button.
Be wary of some vendors who:
don’t include the rating on the post, are obscure and unfamiliar, especially with rating claims that seem suspicious.
High-quality plastic housings can withstand the measly pressure in 3 feet of water just as well as their stainless steel counterparts. Wired models also feature thicker wire insulation in conjunction with gold-plated output jacks, for extra protection during extended periods of use underwater. With 8GB of memory, it can fit approximately 2000 tracks. But some MP3 players do offer the option of expandable storage space with memory card slots. Another thing to note is the use of chargers, as some might have proprietary connectors that are unique and aren’t compatible with conventional ones, making it a pain in the ass when they break down. Try to choose a unit with universal connectors. With this in mind, it is recommended to stick to wired models for underwater purposes. Nothing beats the sound fidelity from a solid and stable connection, minimal compatibility issues, and you can save a few bucks off without the Bluetooth implementation. Eartips may come in rubber, silicone, foam, or hybrid materials. Eartip styles include flanged designs, ranging from the standard single flange, up to the extreme triple flange, usually referred to as tree tips. Other styles include fin eartips, which basically fit to the contours of your ear for a more watertight seal, with some designed with low-profiles to maximize comfort when wearing swim caps. This is usually a matter of preference, so try out multiple types and sizes to find optimal fit for you. While some debate the compromise of sound quality going through your skull instead of directly into your ear canal, bone conduction headphones are beneficial for those who are hard of hearing, because you aren’t relying on your ear cavity to transfer sounds anymore.
Sony NW-WS413LM
Key Features
Form Factor: In-ear IPX8 rating MP3 player/headphone combo Headband design 12 hours of juice (4GB)
Hailing from a reputable brand, the impressive Sony NW-WS413LM packs a lot of neat features in a sleek and ultra-portable package.
Impressive Battery Dynamics
The Sony NW-WS413LM features 12 hours of nonstop playback, with an incredible charge rate of 3 minutes for 60 minutes of playback, or a blistering 36 minutes for a full charge.
Comfortable Fit
The Sony NWWS413LM’s flexible headband design allows for a great fit for larger-sized heads and even includes an adjustment loop if you sport a smaller noggin.
Wide Compatibility With File Types
The Sony NWWS413LM is ensured to work with iTunes-downloaded tracks and features a drag-and-drop interface for easy music loading. Featuring 4GBs of memory, you won’t be running out of songs as you paddle through your routine.
Ambient Noise Mode
The Sony NWWS413LM features an ambient noise mode that can be activated through a button. This makes use of a microphone to listen to surrounding noise and playing it back, so you can keep track of what’s happening around you.
Additional Eartips
While they include two sets of regular and swimming ear tips(7 pairs), the swimming ones feature a thin protective film that degrades the music quality significantly. Better secure aftermarket swimming tips for a muffle-free listening experience.
Drawbacks
Although the ambient noise mode is a thoughtful addition, this can be a double-edged sword. Using this, your music will have multiple interferences upon playback. Add the low volume even on max settings, users can have trouble hearing their music clearly. Make sure to use it only if you really need to. CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON
Pyle MP3 Player Bluetooth Headphones
Key Features
IPX8 rating Form Factor: In-ear MP3 player/headphone combo 10 hrs of battery (2hrs to charge fully) 8GB flash memory
Stepping it up a notch is the Pyle MP3 Player Bluetooth Headphone. With an ergonomic banded design and minimal footprint construction, the Pyle MP3 Player Bluetooth Headphone combo is a contender for lightweight and portability awards.
Flexible And Comfortable Fit
The Pyle MP3 Player Bluetooth Headphone combo features a banded design that can be configured to be a headband or neckband, depending on your preference. Whatever shape your noggin is, you can rock this pair with relative ease without worrying about irritation.
Decent Sound Quality
For a budget pair of headphones, one would expect mediocre sound output. However, the Pyle MP3 Player Bluetooth Headphone combo delivers pretty decent sound quality, even underwater.
Superb Battery Life
While no one actually swims for hours on hours (unless you’re adrift at sea from a wreck), the Pyle MP3 Player Bluetooth Headphone combo’s solid 10-hour battery life ensures you’re set for each practice session. That’s an incredible value for money, considering it only takes 2 hours to fully charge it up.
Bluetooth Connectivity
The Pyle MP3 Player Bluetooth Headphone combo can double as a Bluetooth headset as well, but the technology is virtually useless underwater, with its range greatly diminished by the deep blue. However, it can serve you well for other purposes such as jogging and cycling, sharing compatibility with universal devices such as iPhones, Android phones, tablets, and more.
Included Eartips
The Pyle MP3 Player Bluetooth Headphone combo’s included ear tip size allocation is rather impractical. It has three sizes for dry use, but only two for swimming, which is its intended purpose. You might have issues with fitting so prepare to shop for compatible ear tips that actually fit you well.
Drawbacks
The Pyle MP3 Player Bluetooth Headphone combo doesn’t work too well with Apple-supported file formats such as AAC and M4A. If you decide to migrate songs from your iTunes service, make sure they are in MP3, WMA, APE, FLAC, or WMV for them to be recognized properly. Plus, despite the comfortable band, we can’t say the same with the ear tips. The silicone ear tips themselves may sometimes fall when doing intense freestyles. Some may even have a hard time placing them inside the ears. This is all because of the not-so-practical ear tip allocation. The control buttons are also smaller than usual. So you might find it difficult to access them, sometimes. CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON
AGPTEK Waterproof Headphones
Key Features
Form Factor: In-ear IPX8 rating Coiled Cable Multiple ear tips styles for comfortable and snug fit
Excellent Sound Quality
The AGPTEK headphones provide a crisp and clear sound quality by way of proper frequency balancing (lows, mids, and highs), while providing noise-isolation as well. Feel free to perfect your swimming drills while submerging in a whole new musical experience to hype you up.
Coiled Earphone Cords
The last thing you want while swimming is having tangled cords. That is why AGPTEK has a smart solution to this – coiled earphone cords. You can have an extended length of up to 35 cm. But if you don’t need that extended length, it coils back to 16cm. Hurray to unlimited flip turns!
Awesome Sidekick
The AGPTEK MP3 Player boasts 8GB of internal memory, allowing you to fit approximately 2000 tracks and shuffle them away, and is compatible with MP2, WMA, and WAV file formats. It also sports an astounding 18 hours of juice on medium volumes, with just 1.5 hours of charging.
Drawbacks
The AGPTEK Waterproof MP3 Player isn’t too friendly with iTunes-sourced files. Apple-supported file formats, especially .M4A, aren’t recognized by the player, so make sure to download the indicated formats above for a seamless experience. There are also no in-line controls on the earbuds themselves. So you’ll have to always reach for the MP3 player to pause/play/skip tracks. Additionally, the nano-coating on these earphones can only last for 30 minutes underwater. This may prevent you from enjoying the headphones throughout your whole training. CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON
SWMIUSK Waterproof Headphones
Key features:
3-layer waterproof earplug design Loud volume Clear tone Compatible with any device with a 3.5mm jack Suitable for use under heavy rains, in the shower, or any water sports 38cm cord for tangle-free use with a head-mounted audio player
Contrary to popular belief, high-quality waterproof headphones aren’t always expensive. And the SWMIUSK Waterproof Headphones prove just that. If you already have a waterproof MP3 player, this pair’s for you. They’re an excellent choice for your daily workout, whether it’s underwater or not.
Comfortable and snug fit for hours
The SWMIUSK is ergonomically designed so that you can wear it comfortably even for extended hours. You can try out the 4 different sized tips included to find the best match for your ears. These, and the free clips, make sure these earbuds won’t fall no matter how intense your activities are.
Clear and loud music even when underwater
With an IPX8 rating, this pair of headphones are 100% waterproof. That means you get to continue listening to your favorite tunes while doing your daily laps. You can enjoy swimming, surfing, or running in the rain. And, unlike others, these headphones’ volume is loud enough. Even when submerged underwater, the sound doesn’t get distorted or muffled.
Not just for swimming
SWMIUSK Waterproof Headphones aren’t just built for swimming. They are made to be cost-effective companions for virtually any sport. The earbuds themselves come with a short cord, which is great for swimming. But they also have an extension cord for when you want to use them on the ground. The sound quality also won’t change whether you are underwater or above.
Drawbacks
Because of the great price, you should expect to compromise some things. For one, the cord is a bit too thin. This makes them prone to damage after a few months of wear and tear. Additionally, the earbuds themselves are made of plastic. So dropping or accidentally bumping them on walls can permanently damage the earbuds. CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON
HydroActive Waterproof Headphones
Key Features
Form Factor: In-ear IPX8 rating Headband design 4 ear tip styles included (11 pairs total)
Underwater Audio is back on the list with the HydroActive Short-Cord Headphones, a straightforward pair of swimming earbuds with everything you need from sculling, to heated practice sessions.
Protection Chamber And Heavy-Duty Casing
The waterproof earbuds feature a special “dry” chamber that keeps the water out in the event of ear flooding, keeping a barrier between water and electronics, without impairing playback. In addition to this, heavy-duty plastic is used on the casing, and a para-aramid synthetic fiber to reinforce wiring, resisting the effects of mineral/chemical leach and the wear brought on by underwater drag.
Ergonomic Design And Fit
The waterproof headphone’s banded design provides a snug and comfortable fit, while the unique funnel shape of the housing directs the soundwaves for a fuller sound. A short cord leading to a 3.5 mm jack ensures a no-hassle wearing experience.
Eartip Styles
The HydroActive Short-Cord Headphones sport four different styles, with three specially made for swimming: the Ergo tips, which fit on the outer ear, Tree tips that go deep with its triple flange, and Fin Tips, which are a hybrid between the two. With this wide variety of tips, you’re sure to find that sweet-spot of a fit that stays taut even in the most sudden of turns.
Drawbacks
As the HydroActive Short-Cord Headphones is a standalone pair without a player, it requires a waterproof MP3 player to function properly. Only get this pair if you already have one. However, those with bigger heads might have some problems with fit and comfort, as the neckband is a tad bit tight. Users also need to be careful when switching tips as the plastic retainer is surprisingly fragile than the rest of the build. CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON
Tayogo Waterproof Bone Conduction Headphones
Key Features
Form Factor: Bone conduction IPX8 rating Exceptional build quality 8GB memory, 5hr playtime
The Tayogo Waterproof Bone Conduction Headphones (Tayogo) is the first of its kind in our list. Using innovative bone conduction tech, conventionality and function is brought to a whole new level.
Bone Conduction Technology
You won’t need any kind of ear tips(which might be uncomfortable for some) for the Tayogo. By directing the vibrations to your cheekbones, music is effectively transmitted without direct ear contact. Apart from this, those with hearing problems will benefit as well.
Integrated MP3 Player
As the name suggests, the Tayogo has a dedicated player that has 8GBs of memory, enjoying approximately 2000 songs worth of storage. The controls are large yet streamlined, making them accessible and easy to operate. The battery life is on the short side, however. With just 5 hours of continuous playback on average, it is edged out by others on the list with up to triple the amount.
Great Build Quality
The Tayogo has a rigid, extra-durable housing that feels premium to the touch. It is even designed to withstand 140°F, with a 5m depth limit. Hot springs galore!
Drawbacks
Just like other non-Apple based players, the Tayogo has a hard time with iTunes-based file formats, especially M4A. Moreover, the Bluetooth option isn’t recommended underwater. The water actually serves as an interference so the signal gets blocked out. Also, opening the charging port needs some getting used to. It has no indent so it’s hard to open, especially with recently filed nails. This is a security feature Tayogo has done to make sure the water won’t get in the port, though. CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON
Swimbuds Flip
Key Features
Form Factor: In-ear IPX8 rating Exceptional build and sound quality 3 Tree tips included
The Swimbuds Flip Short-Cord Headphones (Swimbuds Flip) is Underwater Audio’s answer to budget-oriented consumers, who care about price to performance more than anything else. Pioneered by the premium Swimbuds Sport and the Hydroactive models, Underwater Audio aims to provide the same level of quality and performance at a friendlier price, thus, the Swimbuds Flip were born!
Rugged And Ergonomic Build Quality
The Swimbuds Flip features a sturdy housing and rugged cord quality, braving the incessant wear and tear on each use. The cord features extra-thick wiring and even an L-shaped jack for better ergonomics underwater.
Excellent Sound Quality Underwater
The Swimbuds Flip’s unique chamber shape helps greatly in improving the listening experience when submerged underwater. It guides soundwaves in an optimal direction to “amplify” sound levels. As expected of Underwater Audio, clarity is top-notch, and sound quality is balanced between the lows, mids, and highs. Rest assured you’ll be paddling in rhythm with your jam on blast.
Quality Eartips
The Swimbuds Flip comes with the premium Tree-styled tips featuring the triple-flanged design for that impermeable seal even in the most demanding of routines. With sizes of S, M, and L, you’re sure to find that perfect Cinderella fit for your ears.
Drawbacks
As stated, the Swimbuds Flip does not come with an integrated MP3 player. Opt for this only if you already have a waterproof player. There is a bundled kit available, however, with the 8GB SYRYN Waterproof Player. These earbuds are also only made for swimming purposes. If used on land, the sound quality decreases. This makes it fall a bit short compared to other swimming headphones on the list. CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON
FINIS Duo
Key Features
Form Factor: Bone conduction IPX8 rating Easy to use interface 4GB memory (approx.1000 songs), 7hr playtime Supports Apple-based formats
The FINIS Duo Bone Conduction Headphones & MP3 Player (Finis Duo) is our second contender using the bone conduction technology.
Bone Conduction Technology
As mentioned, bone conduction headphones offer a plethora of benefits including a seamless fit, lesser points of failure, and optimal for those with hearing problems. However, getting used to it might be a bit awkward at first, and might need some time getting used to them.
Great Playback Functions
With 4GBs (approx. 1000 songs) and 7 hours of playback on this baby, you’ll get all wrinkly before running out of tunes and juice. The extra-large buttons are well-placed on the side of the FINIS Duo’s housing, making them easy to access and operate. It even supports Apple-based file formats, so go crazy in your song choices with this one.
Extra Features
The FINIS Duo has a strong magnetic dock for charging/transferring files. This ensures proper contact at all times, preventing file corruption or charge interruption.
Drawbacks
While the FINIS Duo can endure over 3 meters of immersion, its 30-minute limit cuts the fun/routine short. These headphones also don’t have a solid band to hold it in place and instead latches onto your goggles for security against your cheekbones. You’ll have to be careful in tucking them in place, as the lack of reinforcement makes it prone to tear. Lastly, the charging contacts can potentially collect mineral buildup with frequent use. Use a CLR cleaning solution to submerge the contacts for about 4 hours, and they’re good as new! CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON
H2O Audio Stream 2
Key features:
Support for M4A, MP3, WMA, GLAC, and APE formats H20 Audio Surge headphones for superior sound Convenient volume and track buttons Can connect via Bluetooth Compatibility with smartphones for Spotify and Pandora IPX8 rated for up to 12ft submersion Hydrodynamic design for proper earbud alignment
After over 15 years of development, H2O Audio comes up with these promising waterproof headphones and MP3 player combo. It’s one of the few sets that also supports Apple iTunes, and all other music formats. Plus, you can play either via Bluetooth or via an internal memory! The H2O Audio Stream 2 is one of your best bets when it comes to versatility and functionality.
Enjoy incredible underwater sound
For some waterproof headphones, it’s enough to just be able to play music underwater without giving audio quality much thought. But the H2O Audio Stream 2 takes underwater listening to a whole new level. Their headphone technology makes use of premium quality sound components inside. These ensure that the best possible sound is delivered even when you are 12 feet underwater.
Easy to use even while doing laps
The H2O Audio Stream 2 is designed with swimmers in mind as evident with its hydrodynamic design. You’ll be able to use it during your laps with no hassle. It has a built-in rotating clip that you can easily attach to any goggles. The control buttons for volume and tracks are conveniently located so you can easily reach them. You even get an assortment of tips so you can find the right fit.
Get access to more music options
With its capacity of 8GB, you can store more than 2000 songs in the MP3. Plus, it supports all the typical music formats. Whether it’s M4A, MP3, WMA, FLAC, or APE, these headphones can handle them for you. You can easily drag and drop your favorite songs from your laptop or PC, and enjoy them while training. But the H2O Audio Stream 2 doesn’t stop there. If you feel like trying a new playlist, you can also connect it via Bluetooth. This enables you to connect to your smartphones and stream music from Spotify or Pandora. Its wireless range is up to 30 feet or 10 meters. Surely, with these, you can get access to any song you can think of.
Drawbacks
The H2O Audio Stream is clearly a great choice for swimmers and other sports enthusiasts. But if there’s one thing lacking, it’s that it would be so much better if Bluetooth also worked underwater. However, they cleared that up in the product description so you shouldn’t be expecting it anyway. CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON
Notable Mention
Click on the title to see full review.
Swimming Accessories For Better Audio That You Can Buy
To accompany you on your journey with your new pair of waterproof headphones, here are some accessories you can get to enhance your underwater experience.
Bone Conduction Technology
Just like other entries on this list, the AfterShokz Xtrainerz has both benefits and drawbacks of bone conduction headphones. The unique design helps in keeping track of your surroundings while listening to music, since your ears are free to pick up soundwaves. Those hard of hearing can also enjoy their tunes better now.
Excellent Ergonomics
The AfterShokz Xtrainerz boasts a complete wraparound titanium design, ensuring a comfortable yet taut fit on your head. You won’t even notice it due to its lightweight profile, which is great for long durations of use. The minimalist design allows it to be tucked under your swim cap as well, ensuring better security while doing laps. The four main controls (Mode, Power/Multifunction, Volume Level) are easily accessible and have tactile feedback. You won’t have to fumble around toggling between songs mid-swim anytime soon.
Decent Storage And Battery Levels
Carrying a solid 8-hour battery life and 4GBs of storage (1200~ songs), the AfterShokz Xtrainerz can go toe to toe with other bone conduction headphones and even conventional ones in the juice department. The AfterShokz Xtrainerz supports MP3, WAV, WMA, AAC, and FLAC formats, meaning iTunes-downloaded tracks are welcome here.
Extra Features
The AfterShokz Xtrainerz has a voice-over function called AudreySays, that guides the user when switching from function to function. In line with this, the AfterShokz Xtrainerz also has several modes that can be accessed by using a combination of its four control buttons. CHECK LATEST PRICE ON AMAZON
Fitgoo Earbud Insertion Helper
Sounds like a name for some weird hydration formula for health junkies, right? Kidding aside, Fitgoo is actually a waterproofing gel you can apply to your headphones’ ear tipsto create a watertight seal, for a more secure fit and a seamless listening experience. Gone are the days of flooded ear canals and ruined swim routines, with the Fitgoo Earbud Insertion Helper.
Ironman Delphin Music Player By Underwater Audio
The Ironman Delphin is an intuitive waterproof music player by Underwater Audio. If you want something premium, then this player is for you.
Android Interface
The Ironman Delphin uses an Android operating system, just like phones and tablets. Download your favorite streaming platform like Spotify and Pandora via wifi, and stream your tunes seamlessly. You won’t even need a PC to download music – just a few taps on its touch screen interface – and you’re good to go.
Accessibility And Fitting
Its external buttons for playback control are prominent enough for underwater access, and the built-in clip is handy for attachment when swimming.
Walkerfit Stream Music Player
If you’re going for that sporty vibe, take a gander at the Walkerfit Stream Music Player.
Hydrodynamic Design
When you’ve got the need for speed, even the slightest form of resistance can hinder your performance. With the Walkerfit Stream Music Player, gone are the underwater drag woes. Its streamlined and ergonomic design makes a path of least resistance, without sacrificing playback control and aesthetics.
Battery And Storage
Boasting 8 hours of life and 8 gigabytes of storage, you’re more likely to shrivel up first before running out of juice and tunes.
Waterproof iPod Shuffle By Underwater Audio
Another Underwater Audio offering, but this time, in a more familiar, nostalgic format.
Classic iPod Shuffle Design
Take a walk down memory lane with the iconic iPod Shuffle tweaked by Underwater Audio, sporting 2GB of storage, an impressive 15 hour runtime, classic playback control and buttons, eye-candy color variations, all in a fully-waterproof package. And oh – it even comes with the essential voice-over function.
Conclusion
Congratulations, you’ve made it to the end! Shopping for headphones, especially one for swimming, is far from lazing along on floating practice. Many factors need to be considered, with waterproofing quality and comfort among the most important of them. We hope this comprehensive guide has cleared your minds of questions and misconceptions. Upon completing this crash course on hunting waterproof headphones, you have walked out as someone with a better sense of value, and might have picked up a few fun facts along the way. With teary eyes and trembling smiles we say, “Go, tiger, pick out your first pair and make us proud!”
