10 Best Running Headphones 2026 in the United States

The Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 earbuds are designed with runners and active users in mind, offering a secure and comfortable fit thanks to reinforced earhooks and multiple ear tip sizes. This makes them reliable during intense workouts without worrying about them falling out. Sound quality is enhanced with Active Noise Cancelling and Adaptive EQ, providing clear highs, rich mids, and strong bass, plus a Transparency mode to stay aware of surroundings—useful for outdoor running.

The battery life is impressive, delivering up to 45 hours with the case and about 10 hours per single charge, which is helpful for long training sessions. Sweat and water resistance rated IPX4 mean they can handle rain or sweat, but they aren’t fully waterproof for swimming. Connectivity is strong, with Class 1 Bluetooth ensuring stable connections for both Apple and Android devices. The earbuds support useful features like hands-free voice commands, easy controls on the buds, and a heart rate monitor that tracks your pulse during exercise. The case is smaller and supports wireless charging, adding convenience.

These earbuds are a bit heavier than some competitors, which might affect comfort for those who prefer ultra-light gear. Also, the USB-C charging cable is not included, so you may need to have one ready. If you want premium running earbuds with great sound, durable build, and useful workout features, the Powerbeats Pro 2 represents a solid choice, but if you prioritize ultra-lightweight or waterproof headphones, there might be better options.

The Beats Studio Pro headphones are a strong choice for those seeking high-quality sound and features suited for a variety of listening situations, including workouts. Their over-ear design provides a comfortable fit, which is essential for longer sessions. The sound quality stands out with Beats' custom acoustic platform delivering immersive audio, and the ability to switch between active noise cancellation and transparency mode allows you to adjust to your environment, which is particularly useful if you're running outdoors.

Battery life is impressive, offering up to 40 hours of playback, and the fast charging feature is a great plus for users on the go. The headphones are also designed to work seamlessly with both Apple and Android devices, making them versatile for different users.

While they excel in many areas, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The over-ear design, while generally comfortable, might be too bulky for some users, especially during high-intensity workouts. Additionally, while they provide a good level of sweat and water resistance, they're not fully waterproof, which may be a concern for those running in heavy rain or very humid conditions.

One more thing to think about is the price point; they tend to be on the higher end compared to other running headphones, which may not be ideal for everyone, especially those looking for a budget option. The Beats Studio Pro headphones are well-suited for fitness enthusiasts who value sound quality and comfort but may not be the best fit for everyone based on their size and price.

The SHOKZ OpenDots ONE true wireless earbuds are designed with runners and active users in mind, offering a lightweight and secure clip-on fit that stays comfortable during long wear thanks to its flexible nickel-titanium frame and silicone grips. Weighing only 6.5 grams each, they feel almost unnoticeable on your ears. Their open-ear design is a big plus for outdoor runners, allowing you to stay aware of your surroundings, which is key for safety. Sound quality benefits from premium Dolby Audio and Bassphere Technology, giving clear and rich sound, although these earbuds do not have active noise cancellation, so background noise might sometimes interfere. They’re IP54-rated water resistant, which means they can handle sweat and light rain, but they’re not meant for heavy water exposure.

Battery life is strong, with 10 hours of playtime per charge and up to 40 hours with the charging case, plus quick charging that gives 2 hours of use after just 10 minutes plugged in. Wireless charging is supported but does not include fast charge. Bluetooth 5.4 ensures stable wireless connectivity, and touch controls let you manage music and calls easily. The companion app adds customization options like adjusting sound EQ and switching between two devices smoothly. These features make the SHOKZ OpenDots ONE an excellent option if you want a secure, lightweight, open-ear wireless solution with long battery life and good sound for running or exercising, though those seeking noise isolation or very high water resistance might want to consider other models.