What To Look For
Earbuds, also referred to as in-ear headphones, incorporate small earpieces that fit inside the ear canal, and may incorporate clips or a head strap to keep the earpieces in place. The best earbuds for jogging will offer a few specialized features that other in-ear headphones may not. Look for models that are waterproof and washable. If you jog outdoors, they'll not only withstand wet climates, you'll also be able to remove and clean the spongy earpiece if it becomes soaked with sweat. Vigorous motion can easily jar earbuds out of place, so the most important feature to look for is fit, and whether they incorporate a clip or other means of securing them to the ear. Comfort and fit are subjective features, so try on different models, if at all possible.
Common Pitfalls
Many people find earbuds uncomfortable to wear, as they are all too aware of having something foreign in the ear. Some earbuds may also have lower quality sound than traditional headphones. Models with higher sound quality can often completely block out the sounds around you, making jogging more dangerous. Earbuds may not stay securely in place during exercise -- look for earbuds labeled specifically as sport headphones for styles that will not migrate during vigorous movement.
Where To Buy
You'll find earbuds for jogging in department stores with larger electronics sections, dedicated electronics stores, and sporting goods stores. Consider browsing online to do some comparison shopping, but try to visit stores where you can test a variety of sets before you buy, and purchase from retailers that accept returns if you aren't satisfied.
Cost
Expect to spend anywhere from $50 to $250 on a set of earbuds for running. When it comes to audio equipment, you'll likely get what you pay for -- in general, higher priced brands and models will offer better quality sound. These figures are based on 2010 pricing.
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