The 6 Best Waterproof Headphones

Contrary to popular belief, waterproof headphones are not just for swimming. If you are someone who perspires a lot or there is a risk of getting your headphones wet while training, then it’s best to use waterproof in-ear headphones.

There are a lot of choices when it comes to waterproof headphones, but ultimately, the application will decide what type of headphones you require. Below we take you through the various technical specs and explain which headphone is right for each application. At the top of each product, we even list the activities the waterproof headphones are best suited for.

Our Pick!

SENSO ActivBuds S-250

The SENSO ActivBuds S-250 is possibly one of the highest-rated waterproof headphones. They are exceptionally well priced with all the features you will need from a pair of sports headphones.

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This article doesn’t just cover the best waterproof headphones but also offers some useful advice. The biggest issue with in-ear headphones is finding the right fit. To help you out, we’ve included a quick guide on the various earbud types to give you a better idea of why they are designed in each specific shape.

Update: This page was updated on June 3rd, 2020. For a full update history, click here.

1. SENSO ActivBuds S-250

The SENSO Bluetooth headphones, the ActivBuds S-250, are possibly one of the highest-rated waterproof headphones. At under $30, the ActivBuds S-250 is exceptionally well-priced, with all the features you will need from a pair of sports headphones.

The earbuds fit deep and snug in the ear, with an over-ear piece to ensure the headphones don’t fall out. This fit also offers a good amount of noise isolation so that you can block out the world and focus on your workout.

The ActivBuds S-250 feature SENSO’s ‘High Definition Sound.’ These waterproof headphones are really loud and deliver a surprising amount of bass for earbud-type headphones. The clarity on the mids and highs is just right. Certainly good enough for a workout. You shouldn’t have any issues listening to music or a podcast while training.

Features

The SENSO ActivBuds S-250 is a wireless waterproof headphone featuring Bluetooth 4.1. Pairing your headphones to your smartphone or iPod is quick and easy. The 30ft Bluetooth range on the ActivBuds S-250 means you can use these headphones for just about any sport – except swimming. The range is decent enough to place your phone or iPod on a bench or table next to you while working out in the gym. If you use an iPod or phone strapped to your body, then the 30ft range won’t be an issue either.

Battery

The battery on the ActivBuds S-250 lasts 8 hours which is more than enough for most people. The battery will fully recharge from flat in around 2 hours. The headphones recharge via a MicroUSB cable which SENSO provides with Bluetooth waterproof headphones.

Controls

On the right earbud, you have a couple of controls: you can adjust the volume up and down, as well as skip tracks on your Bluetooth-paired device. The ActivBuds S-250 also features a built-in microphone so you can take calls during your workout too.

Waterproof

The ActivBuds S-250 headphones are IPX7 rated, so it will be good for depths of up to 1m, as well as sweat and splashes of water. In theory, you could use the ActivBuds S-250 for swimming, but if you dive too deep, the headphones might get damaged, and you would definitely go beyond the 30ft Bluetooth range while swimming laps.

Accessories

Included with the ActivBuds are three sets of earbuds (small, medium, and large), ensuring you find the right fit for your ears. These are standard-fitting earbuds, so if you find a style that fits your ears better, you could just purchase generic replacements to use with these headphones.

Also included is a cable management clip. This allows you to tie up the excess cable behind your neck to ensure it won’t get in your way while training.

What’s in the box?

SENSO ActivBuds S-250 Bluetooth Headphones Conclusion

The ActivBuds S-250 is a great pair of waterproof Bluetooth headphones. They offer a decent amount of bass, which is great for driving workout music while still delivering great clarity for listening to podcasts etc. The 30ft range is perfect if you strap your Bluetooth device to your body or place it on a bench or table near them while working out. At under $30, the SENSO ActivBuds S-250 do exactly what it says on the box for an affordable price.

2. HydroActive Waterproof Headphones

The HydroActive Waterproof Headphones is one of Underwater Audio’s premium swimming headphones. The HydroActive is a headband-style headphone that fits over the ear and around the back of the head. The short cord is the perfect length for an MP3 player fitted to a goggle strap or swim cap.

Accessories

Included with the HydroActive Waterproof Headphones are 11 earbuds in 4 different styles. There are four ergo-style tips that fit flush inside the ear (these are great for minimal impact for a swim cap or cycle helmet) and three fin-style tips which fit inside the ear and around the ear canal (similar to the ergo tips).

These two styles are both very similar, so it’s going to come down to which is more comfortable for you. Also included are three standard tree-style tips and one round/dome-style tip. All of these come in multiple sizes, so you’re bound to find the right fit from one of the 11 ear tips. There is also a cable extension for other sports activities where you may require a longer cable.

Waterproof

The HydroActive Waterproof Headphones are IPX8 rated to a depth of 3m for an unlimited amount of time. This is perfect for most pool and swimming activities. The gold-coated ⅛ inch connector is resistant to corrosion and ensures the best signal transfer when connected to an audio device.

What’s in the box?

HydroActive Waterproof Headphones Conclusion

The HydroActive Waterproof Headphones are designed for professional swimmers and athletes who are looking for durable headphones that can be worn for extended periods of time. The IPX8 rating means the headphones are protected up to depths of 3m, which is perfect for most swimming activities. The package includes a range of ear tips to fit just about every ear size.

3. Otium Bluetooth Headphones

If you’re looking for cheap wireless waterproof headphone, then the Otium Bluetooth Headphone is a great budget option. The modern, stylish design looks really cool, and for under $20, you won’t be breaking the bank. The earbuds fit snugly with an over-ear clip to keep the headphones in place no matter how rigorous your workout is.

The Otium Bluetooth headphones deliver a lot of volumes, more than you will probably need. The cozy fit offers a decent amount of noise isolation, so you shouldn’t have an issue with loud environments like the gym, for example. There is a good amount of bass. However, the mids are ever so slightly muddy. The highs are also relatively clear but also not a premium sound, which is to be expected from a cheap pair of wireless headphones. Having said all that, the sound isn’t bad; it’s just not as good when compared to the more expensive brands.

Bluetooth

The Otium features Bluetooth 4.1. Pairing with your Bluetooth device is quick and easy, with a range of up to 30ft. This is great for those who strap their Bluetooth device to their body or on a bench nearby.

Controls

The control panel on the right ear of the Otium enables you to adjust the volume up and down, as well as skip tracks. The large power button on the same ear allows you to play and pause. A built-in microphone allows you to take hands-free calls.

Battery

The battery on the Otium is rated to last up to 8 hours. The quick-charge battery will fully recharge from flat within 1.5 hours. For most charges, you probably won’t need more than 45 minutes to an hour. On iOS devices, the battery life of the Otium will be displayed on the screen when paired.

Accessories

The Otium features a tangle-resistant flat cable. There is also a cable clip included with the headphones to tighten any excess cable behind your head. Also included are three sizes of earbuds – small, medium, and large. The ear tip fitting is standard, so you can purchase generic ear tip replacements if needed.

What’s in the box?

Otium Bluetooth Headphones Conclusion

The Otium Bluetooth Headphones are a great budget waterproof headphone option. The stylish design looks good, and it fits comfortably in the ear. Perfect for workouts, running, yoga, and other training regimes. The Otium is IPX7 rated, which means they can get wet but are not recommended for swimming. The Otium is not the best-sounding waterproof headphone, but they are an excellent budget option.

4. Swimbuds Sport Waterproof Headphones

The Swimbuds Sport is the upgrade of the Swimbuds Original. The Sport model has improved on overall build quality, making the headphones more rugged for training. The Swimbuds have also improved on the sound quality with their trademarked ‘Hydrobeat’ sound technology.

Accessories

The first thing you notice when unboxing the Swimbuds Sport is the extensive range of ear tip options these waterproof headphones come with. Like the Swimbuds original, you get the three tree-style tip sizes plus the single dome-style ear tip. Then you get three fin-style tip sizes, which match the contours of your ears. If you battle with the tree-style fit, then the fin tip will be a welcome addition.

Lastly, you also get four ergo-style ear tips. The ergo tips are similar to the fin-style, but instead of a fin, the ear tip sits flat in the ear. These are best suited if you use a swim cap. The ear tips sit neatly underneath the cap and don’t interfere with the fit – so you won’t feel any difference or discomfort.

With the new ear tips, the Swimbuds Sport is now suitable for any swimming activity and will even stay in your ears from a high dive (this is assuming you are able to put the MP3 player and cable under your swim cap).

Waterproof

The Swimbuds Sport is an IPX8-rated headphone which means you can use these to a depth of 3m. Swimbuds strongly advise against going further than 3m. The ⅛ inch connector is gold plated to prevent corrosion and ensure good signal transfer with your MP3 device. The cable is the same short cord from the Swimbuds Original, with a cable extension to use the headphones for other activities.

What’s in the box?

Swimbuds Sport Waterproof Headphones Conclusion

The Swimbuds Sport is better suited for professional swimmers or those who are looking for more ear-tip options. If the tree tips are not to your liking, then you’ll definitely find the right size with the Swimbuds Sport. At $70, the Swimbuds Sport is the more expensive option. However, you will enjoy a more rugged design, more ear tip choices, and better sound quality.

5. Swimbuds Headphones and SYRYN waterproof MP3 player

For under $60, you can get a pair of waterproof headphones with an 8GB SYRYN MP3 Player. Both of these are IPX8 rated, so they are suitable for swimming and other workout activities.

The Swimbuds headphones supplied with this package are the Original model (The same $40 featured in this article). To recap, the headphones come with a short cable and cable extension for other workout activities.

There are four ear tip options, three of which are flanged or tree-shaped specifically for swimming, while the fourth is dome-shaped for other activities. Also included is a tube of FitGoo to get a superior in-ear, watertight fit, as well as a pair of swimming goggles.

Mp3 Player

The SYRYN is a miniature, lightweight MP3 player designed specifically for swimmers. The clip will fit easily on a goggle strap, swim cap, or even a bathing suit strap. The player rotates, so no matter where you fit the device, you can twist it to a position that is easier for you to access.

The SYRYN MP3 player is a three-button device. There is a play/pause button, skip track left button, and skip tracks right button. Each button is multi-function, giving you significant control over your music.

Controls

The play/pause button is also the on/off switch, as well as shuffle activation/deactivation. Holding the play/pause for 10 seconds will reset the device. The left/right skip buttons also adjust the volume on the device. So there is a lot you can do with the minimal button layout, all easy to reach and adjust.

Inputs

The SYRYN features a single ⅛ inch input which is used for the headphones, charging, and loading music on the MP3 player. The player supports both MP3 and WMA audio formats. Using MP3 format, you should be able to store between 1500 to 2000 songs.

What’s in the box?

Swimbuds Headphones and SYRYN waterproof MP3 player Conclusion

If you’re looking for a pair of waterproof headphones with an MP3 player, then the Swimbuds, SYRYN combo is an excellent choice. The total package comes in at under $60, which includes the FitGoo and swimming goggles. This is an incredible value package considering it is cheaper than some waterproof headphones without the extras!

6. Tayogo Bone Conduction Swimming Headphones

The Tayogo WB01 waterproof headphones use bone conduction rather than in-ear audio transmission. These headphones are rated IPX8 waterproof and can be used in depths up to 5 meters (16 feet) underwater. Aside from swimming, these headphones are also great for the gym, running, cycling, or casual use.  

Features

The Tayogo WB01 waterproof headphones are bone-conduction headphones paired with a portable playback system built-in. Since these don’t connect to a source using Bluetooth, you can save up to 8GB of music on the device from any computer using a USB cable. Because of this, you’re able to move anywhere without worry of going past the Bluetooth pairing zone, which is often limited to around 50 feet, though slight dropouts can occur sooner. The Tayogo waterproof headphones can also stream FM radio. However, this has quite an impact on battery life. 

Battery

The Tayogo WB01’s battery isn’t the most powerful but lasts long enough for a session at the gym, beach, or lake. With a battery life of around 5 hours using stored playlists, and 3 hours playing FM radio, you’ll need to recharge these waterproof headphones each time before you hit the water. 

Controls

On the left channel conductor, there are controls for power on/off, play/pause, previous track, next track, and volume up/down. There are LED indicators that show you which mode you’re on (Stored MP3 or FM radio) 

Accessories

The Tayogo WB01 waterproof headphones come with a pair of underwater ear plugs to improve the bone conduction audio quality, as well as a waterproof carry bag.  

What’s in the box?

Tayogo WB01 Waterproof Sports Wearable Headset Conclusion

The Tayogo WB01 bone conduction waterproof headphones are an excellent option for those looking to listen to music, podcasts, audiobooks, or the radio while swimming/exercising but don’t want to be limited to how far you can go from your phone or would prefer to not leave your smartphone poolside while you’re underwater. 

The battery life could be a little better, but it still lasts more than long enough for a single session. Considering the price of below $50.00, these waterproof headphones offer incredible value for money. 

Which IPX Rating Do I Need?

The IPX rating determines how waterproof a consumer electronics product is. In this article, we focus on IPX7 and IPX8. If you are just looking for waterproof headphones for general workouts, then an IPX7 headphone would be best suited for this kind of activity. IPX7 is rated to a depth of 1m for around 30 minutes. While IPX6 or even IPX5 would handle some perspiration, it would be better to get IPX7, as you can rinse these under the water to remove sweat and grime after your workout.

If you intend to use your waterproof headphones for swimming or other water activities, then you must use IPX8. IPX8 is the highest waterproof rating for consumer electronics. There is no exact depth or time for this rating. Instead, the manufacturer will indicate this on the product. For example, a rating might read something like IPX8 rated to a depth of 3m (9.8ft) for 1 hour.

IPX7 headphones are great for a range of activities, including gym workouts, running, yoga, hiking, cycling, and other land-based sports. While you could use these headphones for swimming, you wouldn’t want to dive beyond 1m. For this reason, people generally avoid using IPX7 headphones for swimming.

And then, of course, there’s IPX8. These are headphones primarily designed for swimming. However, they can be used for other activities, including general listening and travel. The IPX8 headphones are all cable headphones. Unfortunately, wireless technology is not advanced enough to work inside water, and the longest Bluetooth range is 33ft (10m) max. This means if you’re doing laps in a 25m or 50m pool, you won’t be able to swim a length without dropout.

The cables on IPX8 waterproof headphones for swimming are short. This is to reduce the amount of excess around your head, which can hinder your swimming performance if you keep getting caught up in the cable. The best position for an MP3 player is on the goggle strap, swim cap, or ladies’ shoulder strap. This will ensure the least amount of interference and that the short cord will reach the ⅛ inch input.

What is FitGoo?

Throughout this article, you’ll have seen many of the waterproof headphones, especially the IPX8 swimming headphones, which come with a tube of FitGoo. FitGoo is a lubricant that allows you to insert the headphone ear tips easily, giving you a deep, snug, watertight fit. You can also purchase it separately on Amazon for around $8.

How to Clean and Care for Your Waterproof Headphones

Cleaning

Waterproof headphones are all in-ear-fitting headphones. This means you are bound to get earwax and sweat on the headphones after use. You must keep your headphones clean. Otherwise, it may lead to damage from clogging or possibly infection.

You want to clean your ear tips after every use, using lukewarm (not hot) water with dish soap. If there isn’t a lot of sediment, just use your hands to rub the headphones and ear tips clean. If there is sediment buildup, use an old toothbrush to scrub this off. Once clean, rinse thoroughly to get all the soap off.

Lastly, towel dry your headphones and make sure they are completely dry before storing them. Any water sitting on the speaker grille can eventually start to cause damage and seep through. So you should always store your headphones only once they are completely dry.

Don’t Yank the Cord

One of the first parts to break on any set of headphones is the cable that connects to the ⅛ adapter. For waterproof headphones, this means you’ll have to purchase a new pair. To prolong the life of your cable, always pull the cord out of your MP3 device on the connector and not the cable. The cable is made up of tiny strands of wire which break one by one over time as you yank the cable out. At first, you’ll start to hear some breaking up or crackling until, eventually, the connection breaks completely. So pull the connector, not the cable.

Correct Way to Wrap the Cord

Another way to kill your cable is incorrect wrapping. A lot of people wrap the cable around their phone or MP3 device and then throw it in a bag for traveling. This is one of the quickest ways to destroy your cable.

Firstly, wrapping around an object means the cable entering the connector is pulled somewhat tight and at an angle. This puts pressure on the connector, which leads to the same damage as explained in our ‘Don’t Yank the Cord’ section above. Secondly, this also damages the cable where the wrap goes around the corner of a device. It kinks the cable, weakening the strands until they eventually break.

One correct way to wrap your cable is to first remove the cable from the MP3 device, then wrap the cable gently around your three fingers, slide the cable off and store the earphone – easy! With this method, there are no edges to kink the cable and no pressure on the connector either. See here for more ways to safely wrap your headphones.

Which Ear Tip Do I Choose?

Choosing the right ear tip can be confusing. When I first got in-ear headphones, I used to just stick the first one I found in my ear. For general listening, this isn’t too much of an issue, but for sports having the right ear tip can make a big difference to the comfort while you move about.

Round/Dome– Round or dome ear tips is probably the one we’re all most familiar with. These are usually sold with in-ear headphones. If you have ever purchased a new mobile phone, the headphones supplied will almost always have round ear tips. Round ear tips come in two types, silicone and foam.

The silicone usually comes in three sizes, so you can find a fit that’s closest to your ear size. The foam or memory foam round ear tips usually come in one size. To get the fit, you pinch the ear tip and insert it into your ear. The foam expands and is somewhat molded to your ear canal. The more expensive memory foam usually works best for this.

Tree– Tree ear tips is another familiar ear tip, sometimes included standard with a pair of in-ear headphones. These are great for waterproof headphones because they fit deep into the ear canal and prevent water from entering the ear.

They also offer good noise isolation, so you can hear the audio better at lower levels without increasing the volume. Great for noisy activities like swimming or in the gym. This is the ear tip you would most likely want to use FitGoo to get a good fit.

Ergo– Ergo tips are the most common fit found in professional in-ear headphones. Similar to the ones you see musicians wearing. You can get these custom molded to your ear which is the best way to wear these ear tips.

This is an expensive option, so for general use, they usually come in three sizes, small, medium, and large. The ergo tips fit inside the ear and then flush inside the ear itself offering the smallest ear tip footprint for your ear.

Fin– Fin ear tips are similar to ergo tips, however, the fit slightly differently. As the name implies, a small fin extends into the top of the ear. This fit is better for larger ears. Ultimately, it’s going to come down to testing between ergo and fin tips to find which is more comfortable for your ear.

Best Method for Inserting Swimming Headphones

Here is a step-by-step guide to inserting your swimming headphones into your ears. We have found this to be the most effective for getting the best fit.

1. If you have some FitGoo, add a small drop to the tip of the earbuds.
2. Using one hand, reach over your head and grab the opposite ear and pull up gently. For example, if you’re inserting an earbud in your left ear, use your right hand to reach over and grab the left ear. This will open the ear canal making it easier to insert your earbuds.
3. Insert the earbud and, once inside comfortably, let go of the top of the ear with your other hand. The ear will close over the earbud ensuring a more comfortable, watertight fit.

What to do with that Cable?

Adding a cable to the mix of your normal swimming regime can cause some issues. The cable and MP3 player add more drag – and if the cable accidentally pulls out, you end up with water filling your ears. The first step to avoiding this is to correctly manage your headphone cable.

If you are training in the pool, I would assume you’re using a pair of swimming goggles. Your goggle strap is the best way to keep your headphone cable and MP3 player out of the way. Short-cord waterproof headphones, like the ones listed in this article, will be your best choice.

1. Put your swim cap on, followed by your goggles.
2. Attach your MP3 player to the back of your goggle strap directly behind your head. Plug in the ⅛ inch connector and feed the cable between the strap and your head.
3. Individually, take each earbud and wrap the cable once around the back of the strap and then again once just behind the ear. Bring the cable over the ear and insert.
4. Finally, pull your swim cap down over your ears.

This will keep the cable in place, reduce drag and prevent the connector from pulling out.

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