If you want to listen to your music during swimming, the best solution is a waterproof MP3 player, alongside a waterproof, best headphone for swimming.
However, if you’ve ever tried listening to music in water, you already know it’s rarely the players that make a difference.
Instead, it how likely your headphones are going to stick into your ears, avoid leaking, and blast that piping-hot motivational playlist.
Now, while grabbing a top-notch pair of headphones for dry land is relatively simple, swimming headphones require a little more research.
You can't just get any pair of headphones, as not many are truly waterproof.
But the good thing is, you don't need to beat about it because, in this article, we've compiled a list of the best wireless headphones in the market.
Quick Comparison Table & Our Pick!
Product | Waterproof Rating | Headphone Fit | Weight | BUY NOW |
|---|---|---|---|---|
IPX8 | In-ear | 2.4 oz | ||
IPX8 | In-ear | 1.6 oz | ||
IPX8 | In-ear | 6.5 oz | ||
Other Great Recommendations | ||||
IPX8 | In-ear | 0.64 oz | ||
IPX8 | Bone Induction | 5.29 oz | ||
The Top 5 Headphones for Swimming In The Market For The Money
Swimbuds Sport Waterproof Headphones - Editors Choice
The Swimbuds Sport Waterproof Headphones is a successor to the wildly popular Swimsbuds Classic.
It builds upon what the original model offered and includes numerous distinct features and benefits.
Notably, this new model offers a lower drag, greater comfort, and a 3rd generation HydroBeat technology for a truly optimized sound.
Features and Benefits
Design-Build and Quality
Swimming, especially for pro athletes is all about fluidity and agility.
The same goes for the Swimbuds Sport.
This equipment is designed with ergonomics and aerodynamics in mind, allowing users to slice through the water easily.
For starters, it’s lightweight (2.4 oz), and you'll barely feel them inside your ears. So, it's easy to wear them for extended periods in the pool without wearing down.
Secondly, the 10 inches short cord easily tucks under a swim cap, therefore offering an unobtrusive swimming experience, free from the annoying tangles.
IPX8 Rating
If you're still unsure of the waterproof capabilities of this model, Swimbuds Sport is rated IPX8, the gold standard for waterproofing.
But preventing water from getting inside the headphone is not enough.
These headphones are constructed from an anti-corrosive plastic material that prevents elements such as chlorine, saltwater, or even other impurities from corroding the headphone.
Audio Performance
Admittedly, the sound quality is not the best, especially comparing to what users have to pay for these headphones.
Sure, the 2nd Generation HydroBeat technology allows the headphones to handle bass and trebles exceptionally, but I find them more suited to modern music than classical or acoustic, where detailing is essential.
But one great thing about the headphones is the incredible muffling or minimal distortion, even while underwater.
These headphones will keep leakage to a minimum so that users can easily enjoy a full and private listening experience.
For general use, the Swimbuds Sport sound poor and metallic and they easily lose out to the regular headphones, lacking punch and clarity.
The situation isn't made better by the minuscule 0.07" that keeps the headphones waterproof but results in forced a sound.
Versatile
If you're in search of a mix of comfort, versatility and functionality, the Swimbuds Sports are your ultimate choice.
While the original design was intended for swimmers, the Sport version is meant for everyone.
Coming in with four different types of earbuds, it's easy to swap out what you need for the activity you've in mind.
The tree tips, for instance, offer the perfect seal in the ear canal and are meant for noise isolation, while the Fin tips will easily adjust to the shape of your ear and prevent the passage of water.
The Ergo Tips, on the other hand, are designed with comfort in mind and will let you hear sounds from your surroundings.
Finally, the traditional mushroom earbuds are meant for everyday activity.
So, whether you like running, hiking, swimming or something in between, the Swimbuds Sport will help you get to the outdoors and listen to all your favorite tracks.
Pros
- 100% waterproof
- Small and compact
- Short short
- Different tips for a customized fit
Cons
- Lack of audio punch above water
H2O Audio Surge+ Waterproof Sport Headphones - Best Swim Capacity
The H2O Audio Surge Headphones were designed by athletes for athletes.
The H2O solves the problem of having to replace your headphones now and then because of moisture or water.
These headphones are truly waterproof and will let you submerge them to a depth of up to 12 feet.
If that isn’t enough, they boast of a crystal clear sound.
Features and Benefits
Construction and Design
According to the manufacturer, H20 is engineered with precision, and each unit is individually tested for quality, function, and durability.
Notably, we were impressed by the ergonomic sheared shape that sits flush with the ear.
This hydrodynamic design not only promotes proper alignment for the ultimate comfort, but it reduces water drag for optimized performance.
The headphone is also extremely lightweight, and at 1.6 oz, they’re among the lightest unit on our list, meaning it’s easy to wear them hours on end without feeling worn out.
IPX8 Rating
With a peak waterproof rating of IPX8, H2O Audio Surge is a full waterproof device that can easily withstand heavy perspiration, rain, sweat, and even complete water submersion up to 12 feet.
In my opinion though, the H20 would be the best bet for the triathletes or regular swimmers who would wish to carry their music to the deepest end of the pool during their swim sessions.
Audio Quality
The Swimbuds might have lacked on the audio quality, but the H20 takes sound quality to a whole new level.
The H2O features new custom Audio dynamic drivers alongside an advanced CSR8645 chip for unparalleled sound quality.
These headphones deliver crystal clear sound quality with a pretty good bass response and plenty of volume underwater.
Better yet, the headphones have a noise-canceling feature so you can enjoy your swimming laps with less distraction underwater.
Versatile
The comfort level is different for users, and so, the manufacturer has included 5 sets of high quality earplugs (XS-XL).
So, it becomes easy for users to find the perfect fit for their swimming needs without making any adjustments during their swimming sessions.
Battery Life
These babies have generous battery life and can last for over 8 hours of continuous use and 200 standby hours.
Pros
- Superior waterproof performance
- Lightweight
- Incredible sound
Cons
- Long jack
Check H2O Audio Surge+ Price On Amazon
Hydroactive Waterproof Headphones - Best Value
The Hydroactive Waterproof Headphones are among the top-rated headphones in the market.
The audio equipment comes with numerous desirable features that will go a long way at optimizing your swimming experience.
Features and Benefits
Build Quality and Design
Generally, Underwater Audio is extremely functional audio equipment that isn't going to snap or break.
The headphone, for instance, is constructed from ABS plastic, a heavy-duty material that doesn’t easily wear or even rust.
The cords, on the other hand, are constructed from para-aramid synthetic fiber, a material that is often used in constructing the modern bulletproof body armor for the ultimate strength.
IPX8 Rating
The Hydroactive is IPX8 rated and it’ll allow you to submerge it into the water for depths of up to 3 meters for up to 30 minutes.
When in use, these headphones won't result in any leaks, but instead, they'll protect the entire internal componentry.
Overall Fit
Underwater Audio went above and beyond to ensure these headphones provide a perfect and an uncompromised fit.
For starters, the headphones are available in four different styles of interchangeable ear tips that allow users to use for their different ear sizes as well as the different activities.
So, it doesn't matter whether you're swimming, jogging, skating, or anything in between, these headphones will provide you with the perfect fit for your needs.
However, if you’re into swimming, I would advise that you choose the special fin style earbuds as they’re not only streamlined for swimming, they also provide a great waterproof seal.
In my opinion, though, I love the fin style because of the incredible noise isolation and great sound quality.
Now, back to the ergonomics, this headphone sports a firm neckband that I find handy for keeping the headphones in place.
The classic behind the head connection, ensures that the headphones won't come off, regardless of how fast you swim or how hard you turn off the wall.
Generally, slipping off the earphones is a thing of the past with these headphones.
Sound Clarity
The sound quality of this equipment is exceptional for a couple of reasons.
First, the fit is great, and so, this audio tool will provide you with optimal sound output.
More importantly, however, the ear tips offer a watertight seal, and so, you're less likely to hear a single drop of water coming in between your audio and ear canals.
It would be safe to say that listening to Hydroactive is more or less like listening to your music above the water-except you won’t be.
Pros
- Durable ABD plastic construction
- Incredible sound quality
- Streamlined for swimming
- Custom-fit
Cons
- Tad expensive
AGPTEK SE11 - Best Budget
If you’re on a budget, the AGPTEK SE11 is probably one of the best waterproof headphones to go for.
Now, despite the budget tag, this model is incredibly functional, and it comes with an array of components, some of which are normally found in the premium, high-end models.
Features and Benefits
Design
Considering the price tag on this model, you might think it’s not as durable as Hydroactive Waterproof Headphones or H2O.
In reality, however, they're quite durable, and if the user reviews are anything to go by, some will last for anywhere between 2-3 years, which to me, is quite decent.
Nonetheless, don’t expect premium durability on this model as there were some complaints on the tips being a little flimsy and often breaking down.
IPX8 Rating
AGPTEK S11 has the highest moisture proofing grade the market has to offer.
This is partly due to the unique design that includes a Nano-coating.
The design offers an IPX8 waterproof rating and will let you immerse the device up to 1.5 meters for a continuous 30 minutes without affecting the overall performance.
Sound Quality
The sound quality is tolerable.
The bass is low, and at times it can get distorted depending on the volume of the song.
Generally, it sounds a bit washy, but it’s nothing less I would have expected from such as budget model.
Nonetheless, considering the cost constraints, we were impressed by the overall sound quality of this model.
Stability
With an integrated back-clip design, AGPTEK is sturdy and users can safely clip the headphone to the back of the goggle strap so that they don't easily slip as they take a dive or increase speed.
Fit
Like a majority of the headphone son our list, AGPTEK comes with various (3) ear tip sizes; small, medium, and large.
These tips are designed to provide users with a comfort fit, regardless of their orientation.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Extendable cord
- Waterproof
Cons
- No external support for earbuds
Check AGPTEK SE11 Price On Amazon
The FINIS Duo - Best Bone Conduction Headphone
The Finis Duo is the latest and among the most impressive waterproof music players yet.
Contrary to a majority of the headphones in the market, this doesn't use earbud, but instead relies on bone conduction to deliver crystal-clear audio.
Features and Benefits
Bone Conduction
The first thing you'll notice on this headphone is that it doesn't sport any earphone, which is freaking awesome as you don't have to worry about positioning the ear-buds into your ears.
Instead, this headphone pumps music into your face and ears through your cheekbones.
One of the major benefits of this sound transmission is the sound is infinitely better because it's transmitted straight to your inner ear.
Secondly, you don't have to worry about the earphones jarring loose, earbuds falling or music sounding like it’s coming from the bottom of a tin.
However, one of the critical elements for bone induction is that water is likely to get in between your ear and the buds. Consequently, this might distort and muffle the music making the listening experience a tad infuriating.
IPX8
The IPX8 rating on this equipment means that The Finis Duo is waterproof and will allow users to submerge it in water for up to depths of 3 meters for 30 minutes without compromising on its performance.
Support Various Song Formats
The Finis Duo is highly versatile audio equipment capable of supporting a variety of audio file formats, including MP3 and WMA.
This means it's now easier to listen to music, audiobook, podcasts, and more while swimming.
At the same time, this audio equipment has an impressive 4GB, which means you can store up to 1,000 songs or 60 hours of playback.
Pros
- Superior sound quality
- No nagging or tangling earbuds
- Form-fitting
Cons
- Doesn’t sound great when out of the water
Best Headphones for Swimming Buying Guide
With an extensive range of swimming headphones in the market, choosing one that is fit for your swimming needs might be quite confusing and tiring.
Fortunately, we've created a headphone for a swimming buying guide that will provide you with all the information you need for your next purchase.
Factors to Consider When Purchasing the Best Headphones for Swimming
Waterproof
The first crucial element to consider is the waterproof rating- after all, it doesn't make sense to invest in a headphone that can't be submerged in water.
Normally, waterproofing is measured in IP, or rather "Ingress Protection."
These ratings are the internationally defined standards that determine how effective your headphone seal is against foreign objects such as moisture.
Generally, IP rating starts from IP0 (virtually non-water resistant), and it goes up to IP9 (Full-water resistant).
A notable waterproofing range you should know is that between IP3 to IP7, which refers to waterproof devices.
Devices with a waterproof in this range might not necessarily be affected by water, but water can penetrate the lining parts of it into the internal hardware.
Ideally, swimmers should go for devices that are rated IP7 to IP9, as these normally allow full immersion in water with increasing depth and time.
However, if you’re a serious swimming enthusiast, don’t settle for anything less than IP8.
IP7-rated devices are usually limited to 30 minutes of continuous use in over 3 ft. of water.
Sound Quality
Everything about music is sound. Poor sound can turn music into noise.
With that being said, always look at the sound quality of your headphones before making a purchase.
While we can't simply emphasize the importance of sound quality, don't expect one with an audio quality similar to that of a studio monitoring over-ear headset.
Instead, get a headphone with decent quality- one that will keep you going despite your exhaustion at the last lap.
Form Factor
The form factor usually describes the size and physical arrangement of a device.
For a swimming headphone, you don’t want a device that will affect your performance.
So, for starters, avoid headphones with long wires or cords to eliminate tangling.
Secondly, avoid over-the-ear headphones as they’re not generally stable to wear during swimming and more importantly, they don’t offer enough seal while swimming.
Instead, you should pick In-ear headphones.
The in-ear headphones are normally compact and snug enough to fit and stay in your ears while swimming.
They're incredible at sealing sound and will prevent the water jostle from loosening the headphones or even affecting the audio quality.
However, they still run the risk of popping out whenever you pick up speed or push of underwater.
Bone Conduction
The devices work by sending vibration directly to the skull, jaw, and cheekbones.
These vibrations send signals down to the auditory complex, thus generating sound.
The good thing with the bone conduction headphones is they transmit sound through the facial bones, and so, you don’t have to worry about the headphones coming out when you’re swimming.
In-Built MP3
Waterproof headphones don’ come with Bluetooth.
Instead, they come with built-in MP3 players.
This is because the high attenuation of the water frequency limits the Bluetooth range to a mere few inches.
With that said, you want your MP3 player to come with anywhere between 2GB and 4 GB of storage.
Battery Life
You might also want to consider the battery life, especially regarding how long it takes you to swim.
Generally, however, a headphone that lasts 5 hours is ideal, and it'll let you complete your swimming sessions without forcing you to recharge.
Conclusion
Waterproof headphones are the perfect equipment for your swimming activity.
And when you get the ideal set, you’ll pretty be unstoppable.
That said, with all the options we’ve listed above along our comprehensive guide, your waterproof headphone decision has just gotten easier.
Now, you need to go over the list and pick a model that you think will fit your swimming needs.
Editor Notes:
Will the Bluetooth headphones work in the water while swimming?
The Bluetooth signal is distorted by water, and it picks at a shallow range, and when you swim in deep waters, the signal gets lost completely. You'll need high-quality headphones with a small cord to avoid disruptions.
What prevents water from getting into the headphones for swimming?
The headphones come from a high-quality anti-corrosive plastic material. This protects the headphones from corrosion from chlorine, saltwater, and other impurities.
How should I ensure the ears are safe with the headphones?
First, you’ll need to have the correct size of the headphone to fit correctly. Ensure your eyes are injury-free, and if there is an injury on your ear, you better stop wearing the earphones to prevent friction from your headphones and the ear skin.
Is it easy to use headphones when swimming?
In the beginning, the experience feels weird, and you are likely to spend time thinking about the headphones' safety. However, when you are used to using headphones when swimming, the entire process becomes easy. You'll still need the manual to keep the connecting process smooth and short.
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