10 Best Running Earbuds 2025 in the United States

The SHOKZ New OpenFit 2 Open-Ear Headphones offer a unique audio experience that's well-suited for runners. They feature an open-ear design, which ensures that you remain aware of your surroundings—a crucial aspect for safety during outdoor runs. The earhooks are designed with Ni-Ti alloy for a personalized and comfortable fit, and at just 9.4 grams, they are featherlight, making them easy to wear for extended periods. The IP55 water resistance rating protects the earbuds from sweat and light rain, although they might not be suitable for very wet conditions.

Battery life is impressive, with up to 11 hours on a single charge and 48 hours with the charging case, and a quick 10-minute charge provides an additional 2 hours of playtime, which is great for those on the go. Sound quality is enhanced by the DualBoost composite drivers and OpenBass 2.0 algorithm, providing clear mids and highs along with rich bass. However, because of their open-ear design, the noise isolation is minimal, but this is balanced by the inclusion of dual noise-canceling microphones for clearer calls.

Connectivity is robust with Bluetooth, and multifunction buttons make it easy to control volume, tracks, and calls. Additionally, the Shokz App allows for customization of controls and EQ modes. One potential drawback is the lack of traditional noise control, which might be a deal-breaker for users looking for complete sound isolation. These earbuds are particularly beneficial for runners who prioritize situational awareness and comfort during their workouts.

The Beats Studio Buds are designed as true wireless earbuds that cater well to active users, particularly runners. One of their standout features is comfort, with three different ear tip sizes that help ensure a snug fit and effective noise isolation. This is essential for maintaining focus during workouts. They also boast an IPX4 rating, which means they can withstand sweat and light rain, making them suitable for outdoor running or intense gym sessions.

Battery life is solid, offering up to 8 hours of listening on a single charge, and with the included charging case, you can extend that to about 24 hours. The quick charge feature is a convenient touch, providing an hour of playback with just a 5-minute charge. Sound quality is impressive, thanks to the custom acoustic platform that delivers a well-balanced audio experience. Users can toggle between Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) for immersive listening and Transparency mode that allows ambient sounds in, which can be useful for safety while running outdoors.

On the connectivity front, the Beats Studio Buds use Class 1 Bluetooth technology, ensuring a stable connection over a good range. They are compatible with both Apple and Android devices, adding to their versatility. However, while they shine in many areas, there are a few drawbacks. Some users may find that the noise isolation can be too strong in certain situations, potentially hindering awareness of surroundings. Additionally, though their call performance is decent, it may not match the clarity of some competitors that are specifically designed for phone calls. Lastly, the earbuds are slightly bulkier than some other models, which might affect the comfort during prolonged wear for some users.

The Beats Studio Buds serve well for those looking for a reliable pair of running earbuds with great sound and features tailored for an active lifestyle.

The Beats Powerbeats Pro Wireless Earbuds are an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-performance option for running and workouts. One of their standout features is the secure fit provided by adjustable earhooks, ensuring they stay in place even during intense activities. Additionally, these earbuds have a solid battery life, offering up to 9 hours of listening time on a single charge, which extends to over 24 hours when using the charging case. This is particularly beneficial for long runs or workouts without needing frequent recharges.

The sound quality is impressive, with powerful and balanced audio that enhances your listening experience. Furthermore, the noise isolation helps block out distractions, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in your music or podcasts. The earbuds also offer good sweat and water resistance, which is crucial for running in various weather conditions.

On the connectivity side, the Powerbeats Pro utilize Bluetooth 5.0, providing a reliable connection with a good range, minimizing dropouts. The built-in controls on each earbud make it easy to adjust volume and tracks without having to reach for your device, which adds to usability during workouts.