If there’s one thing that may make your time on the slopes more enjoyable, it’s fantastic music and songs. However, selecting the best devices is not as simple as black and white. If you want to have a good skiing and music experience, you need to invest in some of the best ski helmet headphones. So, what is the best way to safely listen to music while skiing?
To help you make an informed purchase, we put on our expert hats and tested over 30 highly rated ski helmet headphones on the market. We used them over 2 months and evaluated their features, pros, and cons, to narrow down our choices to the top 7 ski helmet headphones.
In this post, we’ll discuss ski helmet headphones in general, factors to consider while finding the best ski helmet headphones, and more. We’ll review our top 7 picks in detail, and list their pros and cons. We’ll also answer some frequently asked questions about ski helmet headphones. Read further to know more.
Roundup of the Best Ski Helmet Headphones
| Best Overall Ski Helmet Headphones | Outdoor Technology Chips 2.0 Bluetooth Helmet Speakers |
| Best Ski Helmet Headphones for Phone Calls | Alta Wireless Bluetooth Helmet Drop-In Headphones |
| Best Ski Helmet Headphones for Gifting | OutdoorMaster Wireless Bluetooth 5.0 Helmet Drop-in Headphones |
| Best Budget Ski Helmet Headphones | BE Headwear Bluetooth Headset |
| Best Wired Headphones for Ski Helmet | IASUS The XSound 2.1 Helmet Speakers |
| Most Stylish Ski Helmet Headphones | RTUSIA Small Bluetooth Headphones Wrap Around Head |
| Best Ski Helmet Headphones With Intercom | Sena Unisex-Adult Snowtalk 2-Universal Bluetooth Headset |
How to Listen to Music While Skiing?
Suppose you want to listen to music while skiing. You’ll need a Bluetooth skiing communication device. It clips to your helmet and allows you to listen to music hands-free. You can remotely operate your gadget by using your voice. Having cables dangling around your neck is the last thing you want. You also don’t want to take your device out of your pocket every time you change songs. This allows you to remain focused on the task at hand while the music is playing in the background.
Safety and security are also significant concerns. For example, it is not good to wear large headphones that fully filter out the ambient sound while riding a ski lift. Instead, you’ll need skiing or snowboarding helmets equipped with speakers to keep you aware of your surroundings.
Things to Consider When Looking for the Best Ski Helmet Headphones
It makes no difference whether you are a novice or a seasoned skier; you may have noticed there are various design alternatives for a set of helmet headphones. Therefore, when purchasing a pair, you should consider some factors to avoid disappointment because the one you picked does not work well with your headphones.
While you’re out shopping, keep these things in mind.
Helmet Compatibility
Many of today’s headphones are intended to fit into the earpad pockets of compatible headgear. Many ski helmet headphones on the market now are designed to fit in the ear pad pocket of compatible helmets; however, you should check your helmet before purchasing helmet earphones to ensure there is room for them.
Wired or Wireless
Benefits of Wireless
There are no cables! It’s rather fashionable to be able to get your ski helmet, put it on, and then go snowboarding without having to thread a cord through your jacket.
Drawbacks of Wireless
The headset requires regular recharging, which isn’t a big deal unless you succeed on the slopes and then realize you forgot to charge them. When that occurs, it can be uncomfortable, but you are unlikely to forget about it again!
Wireless headphones require an internal battery and Bluetooth technology, making them at least twice as expensive.
Benefits of Wired
Wired headphones are significantly less expensive, making them an excellent choice if you’re looking for a good deal as well as saving money for a ski pass. Wired headphones don’t run out of power.
Drawbacks of Wired
You will have to spend a couple of minutes getting the wire into your helmet and out into your jacket. Occasionally, the cables will grip and appear, or they may become caught in your clothing.
As you like to store your favorite music on your phone, you can put your phone in your jeans pocket, jacket pocket, or bag when coupled with wireless headphones. With wired headphones, you’ll want to ensure that the chord is comfortably long. Generally, an inner jacket pocket is the most secure and comfortable location for a mobile phone.
Convenience and Control Features
One of the best features of helmet headphones is that they make your day on the mountain less complicated. You won’t need to take your phone out to deal with anything if you’ve Bluetooth cordless headphones, which is quite convenient, especially on cold days.
Audio Quality
The ski and snowboard audio quality is one of the most fundamental and vital characteristics that you should not disregard. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned skier, you’ll enjoy listening to music that’s both crisp and clear, with just the appropriate amount of bass. Using an earpiece with poor audio quality can only make your snowboarding experience worse, not better.
User-Friendliness
User-friendliness refers to the convenience and simplicity of use of a product. For example, you probably don’t want to take off your gloves to change songs. User-friendliness also considers whether audio speakers can be controlled by voice commands or tapping your safety helmet. Depending on your headphones, you may be able to change your music via buttons on the sides of the headphones, a small control panel on the cable, or you may have to go for your phone.
Durability
Like the rest of your equipment, your headphones must be able to withstand the test of time. The terrain is tough on the hill, implying that you want equipment to withstand a beating without worry. Build quality and long-term durability should also be essential criteria to consider before purchasing. Be aware that water resistance is also crucial.
Security
As you are aware, skiing is not the same as sitting in one place while also listening to music or making phone calls. So you set out on your own and may find yourself falling or landing somewhere deserted. That is why the headphone’s safety and security feature is essential.
Top 7 Ski and Snowboard Helmet Headphones
Does the prospect of shopping for the best headphones for skiing and snowboarding make you feel anxious and stressed? Relax! We have already done this task for you after researching the best ones available on the market.
In this article, we’ll show you a variety of excellent solutions for bumping music in your ears. So, why wait?
1. Outdoor Technology Chips 2.0 Bluetooth Helmet Speakers
Best Overall Ski Helmet Headphones
- Tidy and clear audio with high bass
- Straightforward and large
- Buttons for simple usage
- Sweat-resistant
- 10 hours playtime
- USB charging cable
- Technology update is relatively backward
- No walkie-talkie function
The Outdoor Tech Chips wireless headphones combine the best of two worlds – skiing and music – while still providing access to all features included in a standard headphone set. Our experts found these features which stand out.
Compatible with Most Helmets
Outdoor technology chips 2.0 are available in a basic design that makes them more compatible with practically all types of audio-compatible ski helmets hence, preventing you from splurging on additional helmets.
Ease of Functionality
The unit’s large buttons make it considerably easier for skiers to operate while on the move, switching tracks or answering your calls while perched on the brink. You don’t have to remove your gloves or mittens to change or stop music tracks, adjust the volume, or receive phone calls in the icy weather.
Sweat Resistant
Because of Chips 2.0 sweat-resistant properties, you won’t have to keep taking it off to keep your ears entirely dry. It is without a doubt among the very best cordless earbuds for a ski helmet on the market.
In conclusion, we found that 10 hours of playtime from a single charge and glove-friendly buttons make the Outdoor Technology Chips 2.0 Bluetooth Helmet Speakers ideal for snowboarding and skiing. However, we found their price to be on the higher side compared to others.
View on Amazon: Outdoor Technology Chips 2.0 Bluetooth Helmet Speakers
2. Alta Wireless Bluetooth Helmet Drop-in Headphones
Best Ski Helmet Headphones for Phone Calls
- Tap a button or use Siri/Google Voice with the built-in microphone to change the song or make a call
- Clear sound and compact pads that fit into practically any ski helmet with ear pads
- 10 hours of playtime
- Suitable for extreme temperatures down to – 20°C/- 4°F
- Great price
- Light hues are readily soiled
- Not appropriate for severely cold temperatures
The Alta Wireless Bluetooth headphones are meant for you to use with a ski helmet. The design will suit practically most ‘audio-ready’ helmets, such as those made by Smith, Poc, K2, Giro, Bolle, Anon, Burton, and others. It immediately connects to your music player, allowing you to listen to your favorite tunes whenever you want. We found out some features which make them stand out from their competitors.
User-friendly
They rank first in user-friendliness, owing to their glove-friendly controls and hands-free calling and answering features. You may activate Siri or Google Voice without digging through your gear to get your phone by just touching a button. Then watch as you receive assistance just by speaking into the built-in microphone.
Solid Build Quality
The Alta is sweat-resistant and tested in subzero temperatures (24 degrees Fahrenheit) (-4 degrees Celsius). With 10 hours of battery life, you can ski all day and never run out of juice listening to music.
Balanced Sound
After testing them, we found that these headphones offer outstanding sound quality without entirely canceling surrounding noise since they are lightweight and have sharp wireless audio and powerful bass.
In conclusion, our tests found that Alta Wireless Helmet Drop-in ticks all the boxes for audio in ski helmets. Whatever they lack in looks, they make it up in price.
View on Amazon: Alta Wireless Bluetooth Helmet Drop-In Headphones
3. OutdoorMaster Wireless Bluetooth 5.0 Helmet Drop-in Headphones
Best Ski Helmet Headphones for Gifting
- Simple and easy-to-operate large buttons
- Affordable
- Uses Bluetooth 5.0
- Built-in microphone
- Call functionality
- IP45 sweat-resistance
- Somewhat bulky
Outdoormaster snow helmet headphones are among the best wireless ski helmet headphones on the market, owing to their features. We tested it on various parameters and found that it comes loaded with features to make your skiing experience musical.
Bluetooth 5.0 Technology
They have a cordless design and are equipped with Bluetooth 5.0 technology, ensuring great integrity and reliability. Additionally, you will enjoy the excellent audio quality and bass responsiveness.
Built-in Microphone
They contain a built-in microphone for voice control and answering calls without exposing your hands to the cold. Change the volume, skip tracks, play, timeout, and more with its glove-friendly controls.
Ergonomic Design
The design is ergonomic to fit most ski/snowboard helmets, including Giro, Smith, Burton, K2, POC, Anon, and even motorcycle helmets. They let you listen to your favorite music playing for approximately 15 hours.
Skiers will Love this Gift
It’s a terrific gift for your family and friends because it comes with a high-quality carry pouch. We are sure that they will love them.
In conclusion, OutdoorMaster 5.0 Headphones come with features that make them some of the most effective performance-focused headphones on the market. The only drawback we discovered is that they are somewhat bulkier than the other ski helmet headphones on our list.
View on Amazon: OutdoorMaster Wireless Bluetooth 5.0 Helmet Drop-in Headphones
4. BE Headwear Bluetooth Headset
Best Budget Ski Helmet Headphones
- Comfortable over-ear design
- Compatible with all audio-ready helmets
- Nine hours battery life
- Bluetooth 4.0 compatible
- Built-in microphone
- Very slim design enhances comfort
- Works with BE Bluetooth beanies
- Lacks bass
- The buttons on the side are a bit small
- Bluetooth 4.0 tech is a bit old
- Not splashproof
- Not sweatproof
The extremely lightweight style of this BE Headwear Bluetooth Headset, together with the 30mm speakers, distinguishes these compact snowboard helmet headphones from competitors. We tested it on some crucial criteria and found some unique features.
Audio Quality
They are pretty loud, and the sound clarity does not falter. This is convenient since you can turn down the volume on your phone and rip down a path while listening to music. In addition, despite the headphones’ modest size, they provide an excellent listening experience.
Bluetooth Connectivity and Quick Recharge
The range is incredible. You can get clear audio even when the phone is 20 feet away. They have a quick recharge duration of two to three hours, so you won’t have to wait long for your next ski trip.
Affordable and Great Battery Life
The best feature of these headphones is that they are reasonably priced and have many features packed in them. They come with 9 hours of battery life, so you have no fear of running out of juice.
In conclusion, we found the BE Headwear Bluetooth Headset to be the best budget option available on the market, having the features of an expensive headset. However, the only drawback we found was that the three buttons are in close proximity on the headset, which sometimes is irritating as you end up hitting skip instead of pause and vice-versa.
View on Amazon: BE Headwear Bluetooth Headset
5. IASUS The XSound 2.1 Helmet Speakers
Best Wired Headphones for Ski Helmet
- Large circumference for better bass projection
- Crisp and clear sound quality
- Added extension cord
- Comfortable cushions and positioning pad
- Affordable
- Sound quality might falter a bit with extra bass-heavy music tracks
- Large in size and thickness
You might be aware that while a Bluetooth headset allows for superb communication, the sound quality is frequently compromised as a result. In this situation, it is preferable to do without the sophisticated technology and go for a Bluetooth helmet audio speaker within your budget. And no one does a better job than the IASUS audio kit at completing the task. So we are going to list its standout features for you.
Large Circumference
The Concepts X’s noticeable characteristic is its wider girth. Compared to similar entry-level speakers, this immediately correlates to more robust bass projection. The lack of sharp protrusions or rough plastic makes them much more comfortable to ride in for extended periods.
Sound Quality
The bass is strong, and the highs are sharp. The XSound 2.1 helmet speaker is a worthy competitor to some of the best full-sized headphones on the market. The drivers are also pretty huge, providing plenty of bass. All in all, great audio performance speakers!
Comfortable Fit
The cushion that spans the whole diameter of the 1.3 cm big speaker is snugly and comfortable. If you wish to plug them into your smartphone to pump the music, the kit contains gold-plated 3.5 cm extension cord connections. Finally, if this is your first time incorporating speakers into your rides, the IASUS Concept X Sounds 2.1 is one of the finest helmet speakers for the money.
In conclusion, we found IASUS 2.1 to deliver excellent audio quality, and you will have no trouble listening to music or taking calls even at high speed. However, we found these speakers too big and uncomfortable on the ears if worn for an extended period as they are wide and thick.
View on Amazon: IASUS The XSound 2.1 Helmet Speakers
6. RTUSIA Small Bluetooth Headphones Wrap Around Head
Most Stylish Ski Helmet Headphones
- Very comfortable fit
- Fold easily; very portable
- Good sound plus bass
- Small, stylish, and cute design
- Lightweight but powerful
- Good price point
- Excellent battery life
- Microphone needs some tweaking
- Build quality is delicate
RTUSIA Small Bluetooth Headphones Wrap Around Head is a nice-looking set of helmet headphones. Moreover, it delivers excellent sound quality and bass and is so light that you’ll hardly feel them while you glide the slopes with music playing in the background.
Great Design
Unlike earbuds, the ergonomic shape of Wraparound Bluetooth headphones over the ear ensures that they won’t fall out while you’re skiing at speed. Even when wearing eyewear, they provide satisfactory comfort. There’s no risk of ear damage from using earphones. Plus, they curl up so you can carry them wherever you want.
Excellent Battery life
They hold charge well and give a continuous playback time of 12 hours, and they will never die down, even when used for an extended period.
Sound Quality
The sound audio is OK, but it won’t win any prizes from audiophiles. They are perfect for listening to music, and the bass response is also nice. However, the microphone does need a little upgrade.
In conclusion, RTUSIA Small Bluetooth Headphones Wrap Around Head ski helmet headphones are easy to set up, connect to your phone quickly, and hold charge well. Plus, the stylish look they exhibit is very attractive. If you don’t mind the microphone problems and are one of the happy few for whom this headset fits really well and stays firmly attached, then it’s worth looking into.
View on Amazon: RTUSIA Small Bluetooth Headphones Wrap Around Head
7. Sena Unisex-Adult Snowtalk 2-Universal Bluetooth Headset
Best Ski Helmet Headphones With Intercom
- Fits easily into the ear pad pockets of a ski or snowboard helmet
- Intercom communication
- Good range of communication
- Bluetooth Intercom allows up to four individuals to connect and interact with one another
- Listen to music and make phone calls
- Long-enough flexible cord
- Buttons are hard to find with gloves or mittens on
If you are the one who wants to go skiing and snowboarding along with your friends and would like to be in touch with them while ripping up the mountain, then Snowwalk2 skiing headphones fit the bill. We tested them and found some outstanding features.
Decent Audio Quality
You won’t get BOSE premium audio quality, but you will receive crisp, clean audio with superior noise reduction in the microphone to block out all wind interference. So, adjust your expectations a bit.
Intercom Communication
This is the USP of Snowtalk2. With a microphone and speaker on each earpiece, you may accept phone calls, listen to your favorite music, and communicate with friends over the intercom system while riding. This feature makes it stand out among the competition, and ski instructors find this feature very beneficial. Allows the videographer and player to converse about the line before yelling 3-2-1-DROP! You can connect up to four headsets simultaneously.
Long Battery Life
No worries about battery life. After using the Snowtalk2 for several days, we found that after fully charging the headset’s internal battery, we could use it for music listening and voice communication with others for several days. However, we discovered that the intercom’s range diminishes as the battery life diminishes.
In conclusion, the Snowtalk2 does its job. We can see Snowtalk2 being most useful for film crews looking to cut down on filming time and improve efficiency while capturing shots. They also suit anyone who wants to feel safer on mountains by communicating with the rest of their group, even when hidden from view. They are not a replacement for walkie-talkies, but they help you get more out of what you are currently listening to music with.
View on Amazon: Sena Unisex-Adult Snowtalk 2-Universal Bluetooth Headset
Frequently Asked Questions About Ski Helmet Headphones
The gold criterion, Apple Airpods, is Rolls Royce of snowboarding headphones. The excellent transparency mode that passes through audio from the environment, a shallow profile style, no cords, many ear fit options, water-resistant, high-quality audio, make calls, answer calls, as well as 24-hour battery life. What more could you ask for? One thing, they’ll set you back almost as much as a new pair of skis. You get to make the call. If you enjoy it, buy it!
Drop-in headphones refer to the headphone’s design. They lack a solid bridge between the earpieces, which distinguishes them from other types of headphones. These earpieces connect by a wire and feature an extremely flexible design. The separate earpieces fit into compartments on the inside of your ski helmet.
Most of the time, you’ll fit one earpiece into one ear pocket, thread the wire over the rear of your ski helmet, and then slide the other earpiece into the opposite side of your ski helmet. The line that joins the earpieces is generally rather lengthy, allowing you to use the headphones with virtually any ski helmet. The presence of built-in Lithium batteries, on the other hand, makes the earbuds bulkier.
Final Words
We think that we have done the best we can with our thoughts and recommendations, but it’s still crucial that you do thorough research on your own for Best Ski Helmet Headphones that you consider buying.
As per our recommendation, Outdoor Tech Chips 2.0 is the best one that ticks all the boxes and is compatible with most audio-ready helmet brands compared to other headphones.
Unigear Bombing True Wireless Ski Helmet Speakers are one of the world’s first wireless headphone sets. While most wireless audio kits connect wirelessly to your phone, the left and right speakers remain attached. Certainly not with them. There are no cables or tethers in any location. So pop these in your ear pads, and you are good to go.
However, any of these headphone solutions will provide you with excellent functionality and comfort while listening to music in the snowy mountains.
