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6 Best Swimming Headphones in 2024

Waterproof Music Solutions to Keep You Motivated in the Pool

Swimming Headphones

Swimming can be incredibly exhausting, especially for beginners pushing through long sessions. To help stay motivated and energized, many swimmers turn to music as a source of mental relaxation and physical motivation. Research shows that listening to good lyrics and fast-paced tracks can significantly enhance physical performance. That’s why finding the best swimming headphones isn’t just a luxury — it’s a necessity for serious swimmers.

However, while buying a standard pair of headphones is straightforward, selecting the right headphones for swimming can be more challenging. Beyond simply looking for waterproof options, there are several other factors to consider, such as sound quality underwater, secure fit, battery life, and compatibility with swim caps or goggles.

Choosing the right brand and model requires thorough research to understand the variety of swimming headphones available — each offering unique features tailored for different needs.

To simplify this process, we rigorously evaluated over 30 different swimming headphones, mostly waterproof earbuds, to find the most reliable and high-performing options. After extensive assessment, we’ve narrowed it down to 6 standout swimming headphones that deliver impressive sound quality, comfort, and durability.

In this guide, we’ll explore the top 6 products, address frequently asked questions, and offer tips to help you make the best choice for your swimming routine.

Roundup of the Best Swimming Headphones

Overall BestSHOKZ OpenSwim
Best for TriathletesH2O Audio TRI Multi-Sport Waterproof Bone Conduction
Best for Casual SwimmersWildhorn Crank Bone Conduction Swimming Headphones
Best for Professional SwimmersSHOKZ OpenSwim Pro
Best for ComfortAYI Swim Headphones True Bone Conduction Open Ear Headset
Best Budget OptionTREBLAB WX8

6 Key Factors to Consider When Looking for the Right Swimming Headphones

Finding the right swimming headphones involves more than just looking for a “waterproof” label. You need to consider several key factors to ensure you get a product that performs well in water, stays comfortable during swims, and meets your audio needs.

Here’s what to look for:

1. IPX Rating

The Ingress Protection (IP) rating defines how well a device is protected from water and dust. For swimming headphones, an IPX8 rating is essential, as it indicates the headphones can withstand continuous immersion in water beyond 1 meter depth.

Make sure the headphones you choose have this rating to ensure they perform reliably underwater.

IP Rating Chart

2. Wired or Wireless

True wireless headphones usually struggle to maintain a Bluetooth connection underwater. Most reliable swimming headphones are wired or have built-in MP3 players.

While some wireless models may work up to a few inches below water, wired options generally provide more consistent performance and better sound quality during your swim sessions. 

3. Integrated or Standalone MP3 Player

Some swimming headphones come with an integrated MP3 player, while others require a separate player.

Integrated options tend to be more compact and user-friendly, as there is no need to manage a separate device. This setup is particularly beneficial for swimmers who prefer minimal gear and a hassle-free experience.

4. Type of Swimming Headphones

You can choose between in-ear headphones and bone conduction headphones:

  • Bone Conduction Headphones: These headphones rest on your cheekbones and transmit sound through vibrations, leaving your ears open. This can reduce the feeling of pressure and allows for a more natural swimming experience. They are especially useful for swimmers who find traditional earbuds uncomfortable or who want to stay aware of their surroundings.
  • In-Ear Headphones: These are popular for their snug fit and sound isolation. They typically come with multiple ear tip sizes to ensure a proper fit. However, some swimmers find in-ear models uncomfortable as they can create pressure inside the ear when submerged. If you prefer a more secure fit and extra ear protection, in-ear headphones may be the right choice.

5. Battery Life and Charging

For swimmers using headphones with built-in MP3 players or wireless functionality, battery life is critical.

Look for models that offer several hours of playback to ensure they last through your swim sessions without needing frequent recharges.

6. Comfort and Fit

Comfort is vital when you’re wearing headphones for extended periods.

Look for headphones that offer adjustable straps, multiple ear tip sizes, or secure ear hooks to avoid slippage during rigorous swimming.

6 Best Waterproof Headphones for Swimming

Let’s now deep-dive into the detailed reviews of the 8 most impressive headphones for swimming:

1. SHOKZ OpenSwim

Overall Best

What Impressed Us

  • Excellent sound quality underwater
  • Lightweight and comfortable design
  • Perfect for swimmers and triathletes
  • IP68 certified for waterproofing
  • Good battery life (around 8 hours)

What Disappointed Us

  • No Bluetooth connectivity
  • File transfer can be fiddly

The SHOKZ OpenSwim headphones are selected as the Overall Best among swimming headphones in 2024 for their exceptional design and technology tailored specifically for swimmers. Recognized for their reliability and performance underwater, these headphones utilize bone conduction technology, which makes them perfect for swimmers who need clear audio without covering their ears, allowing for greater awareness of their surroundings.

Designed for overall use in aquatic environments, the SHOKZ OpenSwim excels with its IP68 rating, making it completely waterproof for both pool and open water activities. This feature is crucial for swimmers looking for a device that can withstand extended submersion without compromising functionality. The open-ear design facilitates situational awareness, a critical factor in both competitive and recreational swimming.

The SHOKZ OpenSwim shines in comfort, with a secure wraparound band that keeps the headphones in place even during vigorous movement. The sound quality is impressive, delivering clear and consistent audio underwater. User-friendly volume control, an 8-hour battery life, and quick charging ensure a hassle-free experience. While they lack traditional active noise cancellation, the design minimizes external noise effectively. The headphones are also designed to be durable against both water and sweat, enhancing their longevity.

In conclusion, the SHOKZ OpenSwim sets the standard for swimming headphones with its innovative design and robust performance. Whether for training or leisure, these headphones provide swimmers with a dependable and enjoyable listening experience, making them the top choice in 2024.

View on Amazon: SHOKZ OpenSwim

2. H2O Audio TRI Multi-Sport Waterproof Bone Conduction

Best for Triathletes

What Impressed Us

  • Lightweight and comfortable design
  • Dual-mode functionality for both Bluetooth and onboard MP3 player
  • Excellent waterproofing with IPX8 rating
  • Good sound quality for bone conduction headphones
  • Includes earplugs for swimming

What Disappointed Us

  • Controls can be finicky and require multiple attempts to function correctly
  • Need to re-pair Bluetooth every time

The H2O Audio TRI stands out as the best option for triathletes due to its exceptional durability and versatility across multiple sports environments. Its design is tailored to withstand the rigorous demands of swimming, cycling, and running, making it a versatile companion for triathlon training and competitions.

Designed for triathletes, these headphones offer unparalleled water resistance up to 3 meters, making them suitable for both pool and open-water use. The bone conduction technology allows users to maintain situational awareness, crucial during multi-sport events.

The TRI headphones are comfortable to wear even under swim caps and helmets, and they come with adjustable straps to ensure a secure fit. Sound quality is optimized for aquatic environments, providing clear audio without needing ear penetration, preserving ear health. They feature easy-to-use volume controls, a long-lasting battery for extended training sessions, and are engineered to resist both water and sweat effectively.

In conclusion, the H2O Audio TRI headphones are an essential tool for any triathlete, offering robust build quality and performance that can significantly enhance the multisport experience.

View on Amazon: H2O Audio TRI Multi-Sport Waterproof Bone Conduction

3. Wildhorn Crank Bone Conduction Swimming Headphones

Best for Casual Swimmers

What Impressed Us

  • Waterproof and suitable for swimming and water sports
  • Long battery life for extended use
  • High storage capacity for offline music playback
  • Comfortable and lightweight design
  • Clear audio quality

What Disappointed Us

  • May not be suitable for deep diving due to limited waterproof depth
  • No noise-canceling capabilities

Wildhorn Crank headphones are specifically designed for casual swimmers who enjoy listening to music while engaging in leisurely pool activities. These headphones combine ease of use with functional design to deliver a comfortable and enjoyable swimming experience.

Perfect for casual swimmers, the Wildhorn Crank utilizes bone conduction technology to deliver music through cheekbones, ensuring ears remain open to ambient sounds for safety and comfort. This feature is especially useful in public or crowded pools.

The headphones are lightweight and snug, providing a comfortable fit without causing ear fatigue or discomfort. They offer balanced sound quality tailored for underwater listening, with intuitive controls accessible even with wet hands. Battery life supports up to 8 hours of playback, sufficient for several swimming sessions before needing a recharge. Moreover, their construction is robust, offering both water and sweat resistance, which enhances durability.

In summary, the Wildhorn Crank Bone Conduction Swimming Headphones are an excellent choice for recreational swimmers looking for a reliable audio solution that combines performance with comfort in the water.

View on Amazon: Wildhorn Crank Bone Conduction Swimming Headphones

4. SHOKZ OpenSwim Pro

Best for Professional Swimmers

What Impressed Us

  • Excellent sound quality, especially underwater
  • Comfortable and lightweight design
  • Secure fit for various workouts
  • Long battery life
  • Combination of Bluetooth and MP3 playback capabilities

What Disappointed Us

  • No charging case included
  • No playlist tools available

SHOKZ OpenSwim Pro is engineered for professional swimmers who demand the highest quality and performance during their intensive training sessions. These headphones are recognized for their advanced features that meet the specific needs of competitive swimming environments.

Optimized for professional use, the OpenSwim Pro features premium bone conduction audio technology that provides clear sound without compromising the swimmer’s ear health or situational awareness. This is crucial for maintaining focus and awareness during intense training or competition.

The Pro model offers enhanced comfort with a streamlined, ergonomic design that fits securely even during vigorous movements. It delivers excellent sound quality, with improved bass and volume control for a more immersive listening experience. The battery is robust, offering up to 10 hours of continuous play, and the headphones boast superior water and sweat resistance, suitable for long periods in the pool or open water.

Conclusively, the SHOKZ OpenSwim Pro headphones are ideally suited for professional swimmers, offering cutting-edge technology and exceptional build quality that can significantly enhance training and performance.

View on Amazon: SHOKZ OpenSwim Pro

5. AYI Swim Headphones True Bone Conduction Open Ear Headset

Best for Comfort

What Impressed Us

  • Waterproof design for use in water activities
  • Comfortable and lightweight construction
  • Good sound quality with bone conduction technology
  • Long battery life
  • Affordable pricing

What Disappointed Us

  • Limited sound quality compared to traditional headphones
  • May not be suitable for dry-land use due to sound leakage

AYI Swim Headphones are celebrated for their exceptional comfort, making them a top choice for swimmers who prioritize a comfortable fit during extended water activities. These headphones are designed with a focus on user comfort without sacrificing audio quality.

Designed for comfortable wear, these headphones use true bone conduction technology to deliver music without inserting anything inside the ears, thus preventing ear discomfort and potential infections. This method also allows for situational awareness, important in busy pools or open water.

The AYI headphones feature a lightweight and flexible design that adjusts to different head sizes, ensuring they stay in place without causing pressure or discomfort. Sound quality is clear and consistent, with controls that are easy to operate in the water. They provide a reliable battery life that can accommodate lengthy swim sessions and are built to withstand both water and intense sweat.

To sum up, the AYI Swim Headphones offer an unparalleled comfort experience, making them ideal for swimmers who want a hassle-free and enjoyable audio experience without any discomfort.

View on Amazon: AYI Swim Headphones True Bone Conduction Open Ear Headset

6. TREBLAB WX8

Best Budget Option

What Impressed Us

  • Balanced sound with clear highs and powerful bass
  • IPX8 waterproof design for use in water and outdoor activities
  • Long battery life of up to 28 hours with the charging case
  • Comfortable and ergonomic design with custom fit options
  • Multi-functional touch panel and voice assistant for easy control

What Disappointed Us

  • May not be suitable for audiophiles seeking high-fidelity sound
  • Noise isolation may not be as effective as other earbuds

TREBLAB WX8 headphones emerge as the best budget option, offering a cost-effective solution for swimmers looking for quality without a high price tag. They provide a blend of functionality and affordability, suitable for swimmers on a budget who do not want to compromise on essential features.

Ideal for budget-conscious buyers, the WX8 delivers decent sound quality through bone conduction technology, allowing users to enjoy music while being fully aware of their surroundings. This feature is vital for safety in various swimming environments.

These headphones are designed with comfort in mind, featuring a secure fit that ensures they stay in place during different swimming strokes. They are equipped with easy-to-manage controls, a battery life that supports up to 7 hours of playback, and are water-resistant, making them durable enough for regular use in the pool.

In conclusion, the TREBLAB WX8 offers great value for its price, providing the necessary features for enjoyable and safe swimming experiences without stretching your budget. They are an excellent entry point for swimmers new to using audio gear in the water.

View on Amazon: TREBLAB WX8

Frequently Asked Questions About Swimming Headphones 

Is there a way to listen to music while swimming?

Yes, you can use the best swimming headphones with an integrated MP3 player to enjoy unlimited music while swimming. However, you cannot use Bluetooth headphones as Bluetooth does not work under water.

Can you swim with Jaybirds?

No. Almost all the Jaybird Earbuds are Bluetooth-enabled. Therefore, they cannot be used for swimming. While some Jaybird Earbuds such as the Jaybird Vista are IPX7 rated. They can only be submerged under 3 feet water and are not suitable for swimming.

Does Bluetooth 5.0 work underwater?

All Bluetooth devices used 2.4 Hz radio frequency. Therefore, they do not work underwater. Water molecules attenuate the Bluetooth signals.

Can you swim with IPX8 headphones?

Yes, you can swim with IPX8 headphones. Most IPX8 headphones can be used 1 m under water (even beyond in some cases). Therefore, we’ve listed only IPX8 rated swimming headphones in this guide.

Can you swim with IPX7 headphones?

No, you cannot swim with IPX7 headphones. Since IPX7 headphones are suitable for use under 1 m water for only up to 30 minutes, they are suitable for use in and around the pool only.

Can you use AirPods while swimming?

No, you cannot use AirPods while swimming as they are only IPX4 rated. They are only sweat and water resistant.

Can I listen to music while swimming with Apple Watch?

Yes, you can listen to music while swimming with an Apple Watch, but it requires a few steps. You need a model that supports water resistance, such as the Apple Watch Series 2 or later.

You’ll also need to pair your Apple Watch with Bluetooth headphones, as the watch itself does not have a built-in speaker for music playback.

Additionally, you’ll need to download music directly to your Apple Watch from Apple Music, Spotify, or another supported app, as Bluetooth connectivity doesn’t work well underwater. This allows you to enjoy your music while swimming without needing your iPhone nearby.

Final Thoughts

After carefully reviewing the lineup of the best swimming headphones for 2024, it’s clear that the SHOKZ OpenSwim and the SHOKZ OpenSwim Pro are the top performers, each excelling in their respective categories.

The SHOKZ OpenSwim, recognized as the overall best, is unparalleled for general swimming use. Its superior waterproofing capabilities, coupled with its innovative bone conduction technology, deliver unmatched clarity and safety by keeping swimmers aware of their surroundings. Its comfort and durable build make it the go-to choice for both casual and competitive swimmers seeking a reliable audio experience in the water.

On the other hand, the SHOKZ OpenSwim Pro stands out for professional swimmers. It takes everything great about the OpenSwim and enhances it with additional features like improved battery life and a more streamlined design that’s ideal for intensive training sessions. The Pro version offers crystal-clear sound quality and longer playtimes, ensuring that even the longest water workouts are accompanied by motivational tunes.

Both these models showcase the best of what modern swimming headphones can offer, blending safety, comfort, and high-quality sound to enhance the swimming experience significantly. Whether you’re training for a triathlon or enjoying a leisurely swim, these headphones are sure to meet all your needs with excellence.

If you have any questions or suggestions, please feel free to post them in the comment section below. Also, if there are any other headphones or headphones accessories that you’d like us to review, kindly send us their details and we’ll get started!