Introduction
Music can enhance your swimming workouts by keeping you motivated and focused. For swimmers, having waterproof headphones that deliver clear sound while withstanding constant water exposure is essential. With numerous options available, it can be challenging to find the best pair. In this article, we’ll review the top waterproof headphones specifically designed for swimmers, focusing on durability, sound quality, and comfort.
1. AfterShokz Xtrainerz
- Overview: AfterShokz Xtrainerz are bone-conduction headphones that deliver sound through your cheekbones, allowing your ears to remain open. This design is perfect for swimming, as it eliminates the need for earbuds that can be uncomfortable or fall out underwater.
Key Features:
- Bone Conduction Technology: Delivers audio through your bones, bypassing the need for traditional in-ear headphones.
- Waterproof Rating: IP68, designed for use in both pools and open water, making them fully submersible.
- Internal Storage: Comes with 4GB of storage for up to 1,200 songs, as they don’t rely on Bluetooth, which doesn’t work underwater.
- Battery Life: Up to 8 hours on a single charge.
Best For: Swimmers who prefer bone-conduction headphones and want an ear-free listening experience.
- Price Range: $$
2. Sony NW-WS623 Walkman
- Overview: The Sony NW-WS623 is a waterproof and dustproof MP3 player with built-in headphones, offering high-quality sound and durability for swimmers. Its ergonomic design ensures a secure fit, making it ideal for intense swimming sessions.
Key Features:
- Waterproof Rating: IP68, submersible in both fresh and saltwater up to 2 meters for 30 minutes.
- Internal Storage: 4GB or 16GB storage options for offline music playback, as Bluetooth is not functional underwater.
- Ambient Sound Mode: Allows you to hear external sounds like lifeguard whistles or instructions while swimming.
- Battery Life: Up to 12 hours of playback.
Best For: Swimmers looking for an all-in-one waterproof MP3 player and headphone combination.
- Price Range: $$
3. H2O Audio Sonar
- Overview: H2O Audio Sonar headphones are specifically designed for swimmers, offering underwater Bluetooth connectivity and built-in MP3 storage. These headphones use bone-conduction technology to deliver sound, providing clear audio without blocking your ears.
Key Features:
- Bone Conduction Technology: Provides sound through your cheekbones, keeping your ears free from earbuds.
- Waterproof Rating: IPX8, designed for continuous underwater use up to 3 meters.
- Bluetooth Capability: Connects via Bluetooth for use above water, and stores music internally for use underwater.
- Battery Life: Up to 7 hours on a full charge.
Best For: Swimmers who want both Bluetooth streaming (for out-of-water use) and internal storage for underwater listening.
- Price Range: $$
4. FINIS Duo Underwater MP3 Player
- Overview: The FINIS Duo is a popular choice for swimmers due to its simple design and efficient underwater sound quality. The bone-conduction technology ensures that sound is delivered clearly, even underwater, without the need for earbuds.
Key Features:
- Bone Conduction: Transmits sound through your cheekbones, eliminating the need for in-ear buds.
- Waterproof Rating: IPX8, suitable for depths of up to 3 meters.
- Internal Storage: 4GB of storage for MP3 or WMA files.
- Battery Life: 7 hours of playback on a single charge.
Best For: Swimmers seeking reliable bone-conduction headphones with solid sound quality.
- Price Range: $$
5. Swimbuds Sport Waterproof Headphones
- Overview: Swimbuds Sport headphones are well-known for their secure fit and high-quality sound. These wired headphones are designed specifically for swimmers, offering various ear tip options to ensure a snug fit that stays put even during flip turns.
Key Features:
- Waterproof Rating: IPX8, withstanding depths of up to 3 meters.
- Multiple Ear Tip Options: Comes with four different types of ear tips, allowing swimmers to choose the best fit.
- Short Cord Design: Features a short cord to prevent tangling, with an extension cable for use out of the water.
- Durability: Built to withstand heavy use in both pool and open water environments.
Best For: Swimmers who prefer traditional in-ear headphones with a secure fit.
- Price Range: $
Conclusion
Choosing the right waterproof headphones for swimming depends on your preferences and needs. Bone-conduction headphones like the AfterShokz Xtrainerz and H2O Audio Sonar offer comfort and convenience by leaving your ears free, while traditional in-ear options like Swimbuds Sport provide secure fit and sound isolation. Whether you’re looking for a wireless, bone-conduction model or an MP3 player built into the headphones, these top options will keep you motivated and entertained during your swim sessions.
FAQs Section
- Do Bluetooth headphones work underwater?
- No, Bluetooth signals do not transmit well underwater. For swimming, look for headphones with built-in MP3 storage or bone conduction technology.
- What is the best type of headphone for swimming?
- It depends on your preference. Bone-conduction headphones are great for comfort and leaving ears open, while in-ear models offer better sound isolation.
- Can I use my regular headphones in the pool?
- No, regular headphones are not waterproof. You need headphones with a waterproof rating of at least IPX7 or higher to use in the pool.
- How do bone-conduction headphones work underwater?
- Bone-conduction headphones transmit sound vibrations through your cheekbones, allowing you to hear audio clearly even underwater.
- How often should I charge waterproof headphones?
- Most waterproof headphones provide between 7-12 hours of battery life, so charge them after every few swim sessions for consistent use.
