Ever feel like your workout would go way smoother if you had a better playlist? Now, raise your hand if your go-to exercise is swimming. Listening to music and freestyling might seem like the last thing on your mind (hello, water damage), but that’s actually not the case.
“Depending on their IP rating, waterproof earbuds can work very well for listening to music during water sports or activities,” says Dr. Amy Sarow, Soundly’s Lead Audiologist and Editor.
Enter, waterproof earbuds.
Whether swimming is your main workout of choice or you’re training for a marathon, you’ll want to reach for a pair of waterproof earbuds more often than not. “A rating of IPX7 works in humid or moist environments or for swimming laps in the pool for 30 minutes or less,” notes Dr. Amy. “However, IPX7 is not meant for submerging in water beyond one meter or for long periods of time.”
Even so, if you’re engaging in regular physical activity (that produces a fair amount of sweat), waterproof earbuds can come in mighty handy. Waterproof earbuds are a great addition because you don’t have to stop streaming tunes or your hit pause on a podcast while engaging in physical activity in the water. Essentially, any sport where you might encounter water—like a hike near a swimming hole or winter skiing—makes waterproof earbuds a solid investment.
So if you’re looking to log a few miles on the treadmill and hit the pool after, you’ve come to the right place. Mixing in a pair of these buds will help your training (and motivation), but more importantly you’ll be ready for any physical activity. (FYI: For Apple fans, AirPods are not water resistant nor are they waterproof!)
And if you’re seeking waterproof earbuds that you can submerge, you’re in luck. “An IPX8 can be submerged in at least three feet of water for longer duration, while an IPX9 can withstand powerful water jets and has maximum waterproof capability,” says Dr. Amy.
That being said, are waterproof earbuds safe? It’s a good question to ask, and according to Dr. Amy earbuds are safe for use while swimming. “Earbuds designed for swimming and watersport use are typically equipped with earfins or shaped to stay put in the ear, keeping the ear dry,” she says. “Ensuring the right fit is important, which helps to keep a tight seal in the ear and keep water out.”
While water may not get stuck in your ears (thankfully!), it’s also important to be mindful of listening volume, too. “A good rule of thumb is to limit volume to 70% of maximum,” says Dr. Amy. “Keeping the volume below 80 dB is best to protect your hearing.” And, there are ways to limit output on your phone or mp3 player before you start swimming with earbuds.
After all, it’s important to be conscious of your hearing health before you splash around. But overall, your ears—and hearing—should be in tip-top shape with these devices.
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Featured in this article
Here are our top picks for the best waterproof earbuds on the market.
Along with each product choice you will find notes on their key specs, customer reviews, and the reasons we consider them best in class. 👇
Zygo Solo
- Underwater Audio Streaming: Effortlessly streams music, podcasts, or audiobooks straight from your phone underwater.
- Guided Workouts & Lap Tracking: Zygo App offers guided workouts, lap counting, and pacing tools to enhance swim training.
- Secure, Comfortable Fit: Bone conduction design stays secure on your head, providing a comfortable experience without ear tips.
- Long Battery Life: Up to 8 hours of battery ensures consistent audio for extended swim sessions.
Zygo Solo Underwater Headset delivers a unique solution for underwater audio streaming, designed for swimmers and triathletes aiming to keep their workouts engaging.
- Effortless Underwater Streaming – The Zygo Solo enables streaming from any app directly from your phone to your headset, allowing uninterrupted access to music, podcasts, or audiobooks even underwater.
- Enhanced Features for Swimming Workouts – The Zygo App provides guided audio workouts, lap counting, and a tempo trainer, adding functionality and motivation for structured, enjoyable swim training.
Ideal for water-focused fitness routines, the Zygo Solo supports versatile, audio-enriched workouts that elevate the underwater experience.
- Clear Sound Quality Underwater: Users appreciate the crisp, clear sound even during underwater swims, enhancing both music and podcast listening.
- Comfortable Fit for Long Sessions: Many find the bone conduction design comfortable, staying secure through swim laps without needing ear tips.
- Battery Life Meets Swim Needs: With an 8-hour battery life, it holds up well for extended workouts, though some wish for even longer playtime between charges.
- Motivating Audio Workouts: The Zygo App’s guided workouts and lap counting add structure, helping swimmers stay engaged and push their limits.
- Easy to Pair and Control: Users note that pairing with their phone is simple, and the controls are easy to manage, even mid-swim.
- Minor Drawback – App Subscription: Some mention the app’s subscription for full functionality, which adds value but isn’t included with the initial purchase.
Overall, swimmers and triathletes find the Zygo Solo a reliable, user-friendly choice for enjoyable pool sessions.
- Easy underwater streaming directly from any app on your phone.
- Provides guided workouts, lap counting, and tempo tools for effective swim training.
- Bone conduction design avoids ear tip discomfort and stays in place securely.
- 8-hour battery life is ideal for longer swims and training sessions.
- Comfortable and secure fit for both short and extended use in the water.
- Full functionality of guided workouts and lap tracking requires a subscription to the Zygo App.
- Limited battery life for swimmers needing multiple hours over consecutive days without charging.
- Bone conduction design may have less sound immersion compared to traditional earbuds.
JBL Endurance Peak 3
- Rich Sound Experience: Delivers bold audio with JBL Pure Bass, enhancing workouts.
- Long-lasting Use: Provides up to 50 hours of total playback with speed charging.
- Resilient Design: IP68 rating ensures protection against water and dust.
- Clear Communication: Features dual beamforming mics for crisp calls in any setting.
The JBL Endurance Peak 3 offers a balanced mix of durability, sound quality, and convenience, appealing to active users.
- With JBL Pure Bass Sound powered by a 10mm dynamic driver, these earbuds deliver rich, bold audio, enhancing your workout experience with immersive sound.
- The IP68 dust and waterproof rating provides resilience against harsh conditions, allowing you to use them in rain or while surfing without concern for damage.
These earbuds are a solid choice for those seeking reliable performance and robust sound quality, ideal for fitness enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers.
- Impressive Sound Quality: Users appreciate the rich bass and bold sound, enhancing their workout and outdoor experiences.
- Secure Fit for Active Lifestyles: Many find that the earbuds stay securely in place during intense activities, ensuring comfort and stability.
- Long Battery Life: Reviewers highlight the extended battery life, with many experiencing over six hours of continuous use, ideal for long workouts.
- User-Friendly App: The easy-to-use app with an equalizer is praised for allowing personalized sound settings, enhancing the listening experience.
- Durable and Waterproof: The IP68 rating ensures resilience against water and dust, making them suitable for various environments.
- Minor Drawbacks: Some users note the lack of advanced sound cancellation and occasional design quirks, such as the charging case.
Overall, users find these earbuds to be a reliable, budget-friendly option that balances quality sound with durable design.
- Long battery life supports extended usage without frequent recharging.
- Secure fit ensures stability during intense physical activities.
- Waterproof and dustproof design suits various environments.
- Lack of advanced noise cancellation might let ambient sounds in.
- Some users find the charging case slightly cumbersome.
- Design may not suit all ear shapes or preferences.
AGPTEK IPX8
Coming in at under $15, these earbuds are very wallet-friendly. So, if you’re new to swimming or just testing out waterproof listening, give these a try. These buds are made with an inner nano-coating that makes it possible to immerse in water 1.5 meters deep for up to 30 minutes without affecting the performance.For a budget option, the earbuds come with a clean sound quality while offering noise isolating quality (so can focus on your swim). Plus, coming with a coiled cable and extension, you can use this device in or out of the water. Many of the reviews touch on the ear tips fit snuggly and the sound quality is overall clear and pleasant.To note, this option only works when plugged into a device like a waterproof MP3 player or a smartphone.
Customer review | “Great sound quality for waterproof ear phone and expandable cord. I attach to shuffle and go kitesurfing.” - WaltIP Rating: IPX8Fit Type: In-earConnection type: wired headphone
Overall, these earbuds are a hit with users! Many reviewers rave about their excellent sound quality and snug fit, making them perfect for swimming. They appreciate the loud volume, especially those who are hard of hearing. Several swimmers mentioned how well they stay in place during laps, with some even finding creative ways to secure them better. While most reviews are positive, a few users had minor issues, such as the cord being a bit short or the earbuds occasionally coming loose. Some also noted that durability could be a concern after extended use, but given the affordable price, many feel it's worth it. In summary, these earbuds are praised for their performance in the water, comfort, and value—definitely a solid choice for anyone looking to enjoy music while swimming!
Pros:
- 3 ear tip sizes
- Noise isolation technology
- Clear sound
Cons:
- Needs to plug into a waterproof device, like an MP3 player
- No button controls or speaker
- Not recommended for use in saltwater
Cre8 Sounds CR8 W1
In terms of durability, sport performance, and sound quality, Cre8 Sounds takes the cake. These waterproof and noise-canceling earbuds come with advanced technology, loud bass and clear treble, plus an A2DP profile for elevated sound. As for waterproof abilities, the Cre8 Sounds pair was specially designed with IPX7 Waterproof that can give protection against sweat, water, rain and showers. While videos on the Cre8 Sounds website show the earbuds submerged in water, it’s unclear how prolonged water exposure may affect the earbuds.With an advanced wireless technology and Bluetooth connectivity, a wireless charging case (one hour charge yields four to five hours of playing time), the Cre8 Sounds earbuds were also made with a comfortable and smart fit. Designed to fit on three different points of the ear, this clever structural design makes for a comfy and secure fit. There’s quite a bit of control offered with these earbuds: Tap into a multi-function key, voice alerts, one button design, volume and voice control, and mobile device controls.
Customer review | “I am incredibly surprised how good these sport wireless earbuds are for how incredibly cheap they were. The sound quality is solid and are louder than any other earbuds I've ever purchased. I'm writing this after a days worth of use and they have been consistent in quality.” - ShailynIP Rating: IPX7Fit Type: In-earBattery life: 4-5 hoursConnection type: Bluetooth
Pros:
- Good sound quality
- Noise cancellation
- Secure fit
Cons:
- Charging case is not waterproof
- Unclear on water submersion length or depth
Jabra Elite 7
- Secure Fit: ShakeGrip technology ensures earbuds stay in place during intense workouts.
- Customizable Sound: Adjustable ANC and HearThrough technology let you control your listening environment.
- Clear Calls: Four microphones with SAATI Acoustex mesh provide excellent call clarity.
- Long Battery Life: Enjoy up to 8 hours of use per charge, extended to 30 hours with the case.
The Jabra Elite 7 earbuds offer a robust mix of stability and sound quality, appealing to active users seeking reliable performance in various environments.
- The unique ShakeGrip technology and IP57 rating ensure these earbuds stay securely in place during intense workouts, providing comfort and peace of mind for fitness enthusiasts.
- With adjustable Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and HearThrough technology, users can tailor their listening experience, making it easy to focus on music or stay aware of surroundings during outdoor activities.
Overall, the Jabra Elite 7 provides dependable sound and durability, making them a solid choice for those who need versatile earbuds for both workouts and daily use.
- Impressive Sound Quality: Users appreciate the rich audio experience, noting the earbuds' ability to deliver clear and balanced sound.
- Reliable Comfort and Fit: Many find the Elite 7 Active comfortable and secure, especially during workouts, with minimal readjustments needed.
- Effective Noise Control: The customizable noise cancellation and HearThrough features are frequently praised for enhancing listening experiences in various environments.
- Long-lasting Battery Life: Reviewers highlight the impressive battery performance, often lasting several days of regular use without needing a recharge.
- Durable Design: Users commend the earbuds' durability, mentioning instances where they survived minor accidents like falls or water exposure.
- Minor Drawbacks: Some mention difficulty with the case design and express a preference for foam tips for improved fit.
Overall, the Jabra Elite 7 Active earbuds are valued for their performance, making them a reliable choice for both active users and everyday listening.
- Secure Fit: Stays comfortably in place with ShakeGrip technology.
- Durable Design: IP57 rating makes them water and sweatproof.
- Customizable Sound: Offers adjustable ANC and personalized audio settings.
- Case Design: Some users find the case challenging to open.
- Fit Options: A desire for foam tips for enhanced comfort.
- Occasional Fit Issues: May feel loose during heavy sweating.
How do these earbuds actually transmit music?
Waterproof earbuds might seem like the stuff of magic, but there’s a simple science to these devices.
To start off, manufacturers gear up their earbuds or headphones with a hydrophobic paint coating. Once water comes into play, this coat steps up to repel water particles and keep them from sneaking into the device's insides.
If you’re considering a device to use while swimming underwater, the technology is different. You’ve got three options:
- FM transmitter
- Bluetooth
- Analog set (aka, wire and plug)
Connection Method #1: FM Transmitter
An FM transmitter is ideal if you’re keen to fully submerge underwater while playing music, which means traditional earbuds are out. (Note: You cannot go under the surface with earbuds and stream music—Bluetooth will not work at all.)
So, how exactly do these headphones with an FM transmission work?
In the case of the Zygo Solo pair we recommend below, these bone conduction headphones connect to a separate FM transmitter device via Bluetooth. The transmitter will stay above—and away from water—with your phone.
Essentially, ultra-low frequency sound waves connect to the headset through the radio transmitter. And since these headphones are bone conduction, music will be directly transmitted into your head.
Connection Method #2: Bluetooth
Bluetooth earbuds are perfect for folks who swim above the surface and don’t want to worry about regular splashing damaging their earbuds. These earbuds can withstand water exposure and light submersion (think, up to 1.5 meters or 30 minutes of exposure to the elements). They won't keep your connection for lap swimming.
Connection Method #3: Analog (wire and plug)
Simple and easy, a plug-in pair of headphones or earbuds is right up your alley if: 1) you already own a waterproof mp3 player, 2) you self-describe as a casual swimmer, and 3) prefer an analog device to a wireless one.
This wired earbud simply plugs into a device and you can start streaming music or podcasts. While the earbuds will have a protective coating, you cannot fully submerge underwater with this device either.
Okay so, what should I look for in waterproof earbuds?
Regardless of budget, there’s a few things you’ll want to look for in a pair of headphones.
Keep these considerations in mind:
- Price
- Fit
- Ear protection
- IP Rating
- Noise-canceling capability
- Connection type
- Battery life
Will waterproof earbuds protect my ears in any way?
Yes and no. Dr. Amy notes that waterproof earbuds can help keep your ears dry and help guard against swimmer’s ear. “A properly fitting earbud can help keep water out,” she says. “Drying the ear with a towel or low-heat hair dryer setting will help to remove any remaining moisture.”
But, remember: earbuds will not protect your hearing, “but safe listening levels allow you to enjoy music without damaging hearing.”
Which waterproof earbuds are right for me?
First things first: net out your frequency of use (aka, how often you plan on working out with these devices) type of use (open water swimming versus just splashing around or jogging in the rain), and settle on a budget.
As for a budget, decide on how much you want to invest in this product based on how much you’ll use it. If you’re planning on swimming several times a week, you may want a pair that offers more technology (like, an FM transmitter so you can fully listen to music underwater) or a longer battery life in between charges.
And to be frank, if you plan on doing some serious swimming (that may often involve submerging your full head) versus freestyling in a pool, you’ll more than likely want to option for headphones that use an FM transmitter or plug into a waterproof mp3 player or listening device, because Bluetooth will not work.
Once you confirm the kind of swimming you’ll be doing, then check out the IP rating* for each product you’re considering. That way, you’ll only truly be focusing on products that can withstand water and the duration you’ll use it for.
⭐ FYI: IP stands for Ingress Protection Marking, a system that rates the level of defense mechanical and electrical casings offer against intrusions like dust, water, and more.
After that, fit is everything: Do you want in-ear or a bone conduction device? What will feel comfortable to wear for an entire swim session?
With these factors at play, you should be able to choose a pair that best fits into your fitness routine and your lifestyle.
From top tier gear to budget-friendly options, we researched five solid options, scoured reviews, reviewed tech and specs, and important details that’ll make swimming enjoyable and more importantly, more fun.
Scroll on and get the inside scoop on the best waterproof earbuds.
