Listening to news, music or audiobooks can turn a ho-hum jogging routine into an informative and enjoyable experience, but only if you've got jogging headphones that sound good and stay firmly in place --- regular headphones or earbuds won't work. When choosing the best headphones for jogging, you'll need to take into account what style and features you prefer and set aside some time to make certain the headphones are a comfortable fit for you.
Styles
There are three main styles of jogging headphones: headphones with a band that stretches across the top of the head, headphones with a band securing the earpieces behind the back of the head or neck, and ear-clip headphones. Ear-clip styles are best for joggers who don't like the pressure of a vertical or horizontal band pressing on their heads; however, headphones that lack a secure band may be more likely to jostle about during exercise. The price range of the styles also differs, with ear-clip and horizontal-band styles sometimes selling for three times as much as vertical-band styles.
Features
A number of features are available in different jogging headphones, from models that are water resistant --- a good choice if you like to stick with your exercise regimen regardless of the weather --- to wireless behind-the-head models that feature either MP3 or iPod connections. Other jogging headphones are compatible with your iPhone and include durable, voice activated microphones. If you prefer to listen to your music collection or downloaded podcasts or books from your iPod or MP3 player, wireless headphones with a vertical or horizontal band are the best choice. They are sturdier than non-sports wireless headphones and are designed to withstand the rigor of regular jogging. Choose a less expensive ear-clip model if your listening material doesn't require a wireless connection.
Before You Buy
Even after you think you've identified the perfect jogging headphone, your best bet at being happy with your purchase is to try it out at a retailer or borrow one from a jogging friend. Put them on and, if possible, wear them for at least 10 minutes. You'll be better able to determine if the headphones exert too much pressure on your head or neck or feel uncomfortable in your ears.
Considerations
Whatever jogging headphone you choose, remember that listening while jogging carries with it a certain amount of risk. Keep the volume low enough to both protect your hearing and to help you stay aware of the cars and people around you as you jog. Avoid jogging with ear-pad headphones --- not only will they be more likely to slide around on your head and distract you during exercise, according to CNET Reviews, they block out more noise than is safe.
Member Comments