Ever feel like your music is the only thing keeping you going during a tough workout? You’re not alone! Great tunes can really power you through those last few reps or that extra mile.
But finding the perfect over-ear gym headphones can be a workout in itself. So many choices! Do you need noise cancellation to block out distractions? What about sweat resistance so they don’t get ruined? It’s easy to get lost in all the features and jargon.
This post is here to help! We’ll break down what really matters when picking out your next pair of gym buddies. You’ll learn how to spot the best sound, the comfiest fit, and the most durable designs. Get ready to find headphones that will make your workouts even more awesome.
Our Top 5 Over Ear Gym Headphones Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Over Ear Gym Headphones Detailed Reviews
1. JBL Tune 720BT – Wireless Over-Ear Headphones with JBL Pure Bass Sound
Rating: 8.6/10
Get ready to experience music like never before with the JBL Tune 720BT wireless headphones. These sleek black headphones deliver powerful JBL Pure Bass Sound, the same sound found in famous music venues. They’re super comfortable and light, perfect for long listening sessions. Plus, they fold up easily, making them great for taking anywhere.
What We Like:
- Amazing JBL Pure Bass Sound that makes music thump.
- Bluetooth 5.3 for a steady, clear wireless connection.
- Incredible 76-hour battery life means you can listen for days.
- Speed Charge gets you hours of playback with just a few minutes of charging.
- The JBL Headphones App lets you change the EQ to match your music.
- Voice prompts help you understand the headphones’ features.
- Voice Aware lets you hear yourself when you talk on calls.
- They are lightweight and comfortable for all-day wear.
- The foldable design makes them easy to carry and store.
What Could Be Improved:
- While comfortable, the earcups might feel a bit small for some users.
- The included charging cable is quite short.
The JBL Tune 720BT headphones offer a fantastic listening experience with their powerful bass and long battery life. They are a solid choice for anyone wanting great sound and convenience.
2. Soundcore Anker Life Q20 Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones
Rating: 9.1/10
Meet the Soundcore Anker Life Q20, your new go-to headphones for blocking out the world and enjoying your music. These wireless over-ear headphones offer amazing sound quality, long battery life, and active noise cancellation. They are perfect for your commute, office, or just relaxing at home.
What We Like:
- Incredible Sound: Custom 40mm drivers deliver Hi-Res Audio, meaning your music will sound super clear and detailed.
- Blocks Out Noise: The hybrid active noise cancellation reduces outside sounds by up to 90%, so you can focus on your audio.
- Powerful Bass: BassUp technology makes the bass even stronger, especially for music genres like EDM and hip-hop.
- Super Long Battery Life: Get up to 60 hours of playtime in standard mode or 40 hours with noise cancellation on. A quick 5-minute charge gives you 4 hours of listening.
- Comfortable Design: Soft foam ear cups make these headphones comfortable to wear for long periods.
- Great for Travel: They come with a travel pouch, making them easy to take anywhere.
- Easy Charging: Uses a convenient USB-C charging port.
What Could Be Improved:
- Noise Cancellation Limits: While good, the ANC might not block out every single sound, especially high-frequency ones.
- Bass Boost Setting: The extra bass boost might be too much for some listeners who prefer a more balanced sound.
These headphones offer a fantastic listening experience with impressive features for their price. If you want great sound and effective noise cancellation without breaking the bank, the Soundcore Life Q20 is a solid choice.
3. Soundcore by Anker Q20i Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones
Rating: 8.6/10
Escape the everyday noise with the Soundcore by Anker Q20i headphones. These white, over-ear Bluetooth headphones are designed to bring you immersive sound and peace, no matter where you are. They offer amazing noise cancellation, long-lasting battery life, and a comfortable listening experience for hours on end.
What We Like:
- The hybrid active noise cancelling blocks out up to 90% of noise, like airplane engines and car sounds.
- Oversized 40mm drivers deliver detailed sound and big bass with BassUp technology.
- Enjoy an incredible 40 hours of playtime with noise cancelling on, and 60 hours without.
- Fast charging gives you 4 extra hours of listening with just a 5-minute charge.
- You can connect to two devices at once and easily switch between them.
- The Soundcore app lets you customize your EQ with 22 presets or create your own.
- Transparency mode lets you hear important sounds around you, like announcements.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the noise cancelling is good, it might not block out every single sound.
- The best sound quality for Hi-Res audio requires using the AUX cable, not just Bluetooth.
The Soundcore Q20i headphones offer a fantastic blend of features for their price. They are a solid choice for anyone seeking quiet, great sound, and long listening sessions.
4. Sony WH-CH720N Noise Canceling Wireless Headphones Bluetooth Over The Ear Headset with Microphone and Alexa Built-in
Rating: 8.6/10
Get ready to experience music like never before with the Sony WH-CH720N Noise Canceling Wireless Headphones. These black, over-the-ear headphones are packed with amazing features to make your listening experience comfortable and enjoyable. They’re super light, making them perfect for wearing all day long.
What We Like:
- SONY’S LIGHTEST WIRELESS NOISE CANCELING HEADBAND EVER: At only 192g, these are the lightest Sony headphones with noise canceling.
- DUAL NOISE SENSOR TECHNOLOGY: Sony’s Integrated Processor V1 blocks out distractions so you can focus on your music.
- ALL DAY COMFORT: The lightweight design feels great even after hours of listening.
- SMART FEATURES: Adjustable Ambient Sound mode and Adaptive Sound control let you hear your surroundings when you need to.
- LONG BATTERY LIFE: Enjoy up to 35 hours of playback, and a quick 3-minute charge gives you an hour of music.
- SUPERB SOUND: The Integrated Processor V1 and DSEE deliver clear, natural sound.
- CRYSTAL CLEAR HANDS FREE CALLING: Beamforming microphones pick up your voice clearly for calls.
- MULTIPOINT CONNECTION: Easily switch between two devices at the same time.
- GIVE YOUR MUSIC A BOOST: DSEE improves the quality of compressed music files for better streaming.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the noise canceling is good, some might find even better performance in more premium models.
- The design is comfortable but not as premium feeling as some higher-end Sony headphones.
These headphones offer a fantastic balance of comfort, sound quality, and smart features for their price. They are an excellent choice for anyone looking for reliable, everyday noise-canceling headphones.
5. BERIBES Bluetooth Headphones Over Ear
Rating: 9.2/10
Get ready to dive into amazing sound with the BERIBES Bluetooth Headphones Over Ear. These headphones are designed for music lovers and busy folks alike, offering incredible battery life and customizable sound for any mood or music genre. They’re super comfy for long listening sessions and connect easily to your devices.
What We Like:
- Incredible 65-Hour Playtime: Listen for days on a single charge!
- Six EQ Music Modes: Tailor your sound to rock, jazz, or whatever you love.
- Lightweight and Comfortable: Soft earmuffs and an adjustable headband mean all-day comfort.
- Latest Bluetooth 5.3: Quick, stable connections up to 33 feet.
- Connect Two Devices: Easily switch between your phone and tablet.
- Built-in Microphone: Take calls clearly.
- Wired Option: Use them even if the battery dies with the included cable.
What Could Be Improved:
- Sound Quality for True Audiophiles: While good, extreme audiophiles might want even more detail.
- Bass Adjustment: While there’s a bass mode, finer bass control isn’t available.
These BERIBES headphones offer a fantastic balance of features, comfort, and value. They are an excellent choice for anyone seeking long-lasting wireless audio for work, play, and everything in between.
Your Guide to Awesome Over-Ear Gym Headphones
Picking the right headphones for your workouts can make a big difference. You want something that stays put, sounds great, and can handle your sweat. Over-ear headphones are a popular choice for the gym because they offer comfort and good sound. Let’s dive into what makes a great pair.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for over-ear gym headphones, keep these important features in mind:
- Secure Fit: This is super important. You don’t want your headphones falling off when you’re doing burpees or running. Look for adjustable headbands and earcups that can swivel. Some headphones also have a snugger fit around the ears to help them stay in place.
- Sweat Resistance: Gyms are sweaty places! Your headphones need to be able to handle moisture. Many are rated with an IP (Ingress Protection) number. A higher number means better protection against dust and water. Look for at least an IPX4 rating, which means they can handle splashes of water.
- Comfort: You’ll be wearing these for a while, so comfort is key. Soft, padded earcups are a must. The headband should also be well-padded and not too tight. Lightweight headphones are also easier to wear for longer periods.
- Sound Quality: Good sound makes your workouts more enjoyable. You want clear audio with a good bass response to keep you motivated.
- Battery Life: If you’re using wireless headphones, make sure they have enough battery to last through all your workouts for the week. Longer battery life means less charging.
- Connectivity: For wireless headphones, Bluetooth is standard. Make sure they connect easily and have a stable connection. Some also offer the option to connect with a wire, which is good if the battery dies.
Important Materials
The materials used in headphones affect their durability, comfort, and sweat resistance.
- Earcups: Soft, breathable materials like memory foam or plush fabric are best for comfort. Some earcups have a leather or synthetic leather covering. For gym use, look for materials that can be easily wiped clean.
- Headband: A padded headband, often made with similar materials to the earcups, helps distribute weight evenly and prevents discomfort.
- Build: Sturdy plastic is common for the main body of the headphones. Look for headphones that feel solid and well-built, not flimsy. Metal accents can add a premium feel and durability.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make your headphones better or worse for gym use.
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Improved Quality:
- Waterproofing/Sweatproofing: As mentioned, good water resistance is crucial.
- Secure Ear Grips: Some headphones have special materials or designs on the earcups to help them grip your ears.
- Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): While not essential for everyone, ANC can help block out gym noise, letting you focus on your music. However, be aware that ANC can sometimes make you less aware of your surroundings, which can be a safety issue in some gym environments.
- Durable Hinges and Adjustments: Headphones that can withstand being folded or adjusted many times without breaking will last longer.
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Reduced Quality:
- Poorly Padded Earcups: This can lead to discomfort and headaches during long workouts.
- Loose Fit: If the headphones slip easily, they’re not ideal for active use.
- Low-Quality Bluetooth: Choppy audio or frequent disconnections are frustrating.
- Non-Breathable Materials: These can make your ears feel hot and sweaty.
User Experience and Use Cases
Over-ear gym headphones are great for a variety of activities.
- Weightlifting: They stay put while you’re lifting weights and moving around. The comfort lets you focus on your sets.
- Cardio: Whether you’re on a treadmill, elliptical, or cycling, these headphones can provide a stable and immersive audio experience.
- Yoga and Pilates: The comfort and sound quality can help create a calming atmosphere for these activities.
- General Gym Use: For anyone who prefers over-ear comfort and good sound over the smaller size of earbuds, these are a solid choice for all types of gym workouts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Are over-ear headphones good for the gym?
A: Yes, over-ear headphones can be great for the gym if they have a secure fit, are sweat-resistant, and are comfortable to wear during workouts.
Q: What does an IPX4 rating mean?
A: An IPX4 rating means the headphones are protected against water splashes from any direction. This is good for sweat and light rain.
Q: Should I worry about active noise cancellation at the gym?
A: It’s good to be aware that ANC can block out important sounds like alarms or people calling out. If you need to hear your surroundings, consider turning ANC off or choosing headphones without it.
Q: How do I clean my over-ear gym headphones?
A: Gently wipe the earcups and headband with a slightly damp cloth. Make sure they are completely dry before using them again. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for specific cleaning advice.
Q: Can I use wired over-ear headphones at the gym?
A: Yes, wired headphones work fine. Just make sure the cable doesn’t get in your way during exercises.
Q: What’s the difference between over-ear and on-ear headphones for the gym?
A: Over-ear headphones completely surround your ears, offering more comfort and better sound isolation. On-ear headphones sit directly on your ears, which can be less comfortable for some and might not block out as much noise.
Q: How important is battery life for wireless gym headphones?
A: Battery life is very important. You want headphones that can last for several workouts on a single charge so you don’t have to worry about them dying mid-session.
Q: Will my hair get messy wearing over-ear headphones?
A: It’s possible, especially if you have long hair. Some people find that hairstyles like ponytails or buns help keep hair out of the way.
Q: Are there over-ear headphones that are specifically designed for sports?
A: Yes, many brands make headphones with features like extra secure fits, enhanced sweat resistance, and more durable materials for sports and gym use.
Q: Can I wear glasses with over-ear gym headphones?
A: Most over-ear headphones can be worn with glasses. However, some people find that the pressure from the headphones can make wearing glasses less comfortable. It’s best to try them on if possible.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.