Choosing the best pair of running headphones can be a very difficult thing to do, especially with so many options for sports headphones these days. That’s not to mention the fact that technology seems to offer something new around every corner.
So how can you find the best running headphones?
Well, you can listen to us here at Workout Headphones. Though not just us. We’ve used our own experience as well as talking to different types of runners ranging from casual, to triathletes, to marathon runners to find the Best Running Headphones of 2011.
General Criteria
We previously outlined our general criteria for best sports headphones here.
Running Criteria
- Cable Length and Attachment. There’s not much more annoying than your headphones cable bouncing off your chest or getting tangled in your arms just as you hit your runner’s high. We look for running headphone manufacturers that have thought about this and included it in their design.
- Over Ear Hooks. We’ve taken all ear hook sports headphones off the list this year. Why? Because one common complaint we received from runners was the inability to wear glasses, visors, and hats comfortably with their headphones. If you don’t happen to run with any of those then over ear hook headphones, like the Zippearz or Koss SC75 may be perfect for you, but we wanted a Top 3 list that any runner could use.
- In-Line Controls. This isn’t a must, but having the volume and play controls on the cable rather than having to reach to your armband or in your pocket to adjust the song is very convenient, especially when you’re in the groove.
Best Running Headphones of 2011
Number 1 – Sennheiser Adidas PMX 680i Sports Headset
Sennheiser has had a lock on the sports headphones market for quite a while now. So it shouldn’t be a surprise when the Sennheiser Adidas PMX 680i Sports Headset is our number one choice for running headphones of 2011. There just really isn’t anything negative to say. In fact most runners we’ve talked to have actually grabbed several pairs in the event that Sennheiser ever discontinues this series, though we don’t see that happening anytime in the near future.
Number 2 – Bose IE2 Audio Headphones
It’s hard to imagine a “Best of..” list that involves music without mentioning Bose. They’ve set music standards for years, and they’ve taken it a step further with their Bose IE2 Audio Headphones. We absolutely love their StayFit technology, and you probably won’t find a better sound without spending another few hundred dollars. If you want the option for in-line controls be sure to check out the Bose MIE2 Mobile Headset.
You shouldn’t be surprised to know you’ll also find the Bose IE2 Audio Headphones on our Best Overall Sports Headphones of 2011.
Number 3 – Yurbuds Ironman Series In-Ear Sports Headphones
If you’re looking for comfort when you run, look no further. They make take a few minutes to get used to, but Yurbuds Ironman Series In-Ear Sports Headphones are quickly winning over more and more people in a market that was traditionally dominated by Sennheiser and other large companies.
You’ll also find these amazing earbuds on our Best Overall Sports Headphones of 2011.
What to expect in 2012?
Increased functionality and features. We are making huge leaps in technology and you should expect to reap the benefits of that in 2012. You can already see some features that will soon be standard in the new Motorola and Polk Audio headphones. Pretty soon we expect features like heart rate monitoring to become a standard for sports headphones.
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