Workout earbuds have three jobs: stay put, survive sweat and be easy to control mid-set. Here is what to look for in fit and features, how to read water-resistance ratings, and how to look after your earbuds after a sweaty session.
Fit: the most important feature
If an earbud keeps loosening, you will spend the workout pushing it back in. A good seal also keeps the bass full, so you are not tempted to turn the volume up.
- Try every tip size in the box. Some people need a different size for each ear.
- Insert with a slight twist so the earbud settles into your ear, following the brand's fitting guide.
- Consider wing tips or ear hooks on models that offer them, for running and jumping.
- Do a quick fit test: shake your head, jog on the spot and do a few jumping jacks.
The Skullcandy Sesh ANC listing, for example, stresses choosing the right ear gel tip size for a proper fit. It also lists an IP55 rating for sweat, water and dust, and Tile technology that helps you track down a misplaced earbud through the Tile app.
Sweat and water resistance
Water resistance is shown as an IP code. The second digit is for water and the first is for dust; an X means the product was not rated for dust.
| Rating | Tested against | Workout suitability |
|---|---|---|
| IPX4 | Splashing water from any direction | Light sweat and light rain |
| IPX5 | Water jets from any direction | Heavier sweat and rain |
| IP54 | Dust (protected) plus splashing water | Light sweat and dusty outdoor runs |
| IP55 | Dust (protected) plus water jets | Heavier sweat and outdoor training |
Keep three things in mind:
- Ratings are tested with fresh water in a lab. Sweat is salty and can affect charging contacts over time, so wipe your earbuds after every session.
- The rating usually applies to the earbuds, not the charging case, unless the product page says otherwise.
- Water-resistant earbuds are not swimming earbuds. Most are not rated for immersion, and Bluetooth signals do not travel well through water.
Read more in our guide to water resistance ratings.
Controls and features that help
- Controls: touch panels can misfire with sweaty fingers or under a cap; physical buttons are more predictable. Many apps let you change or turn off gestures.
- Ambient or transparency mode: lets you hear traffic and people on outdoor runs.
- ANC: useful in a loud gym, but switch it off outdoors where you need to hear your surroundings.
- Battery: 5 or more hours per charge covers most sessions, and fast charging helps if you forget to charge.
The JBL Wave Buds list an IP54 water and dust rating, an ergonomic stick-closed design for a secure and comfortable fit, and Ambient Aware and TalkThru modes. The OnePlus Nord Buds 2r list IP55 water and sweat resistance and a 12.4mm driver.
After-workout care
- Wipe the earbuds and tips with a soft, dry, lint-free cloth.
- Let damp earbuds air-dry before putting them in the case, and make sure the charging contacts are dry.
- Never charge the earbuds or the case while they are wet.
- Clean the ear tips regularly, as described in the manual.
- Do not leave earbuds in a hot car or in a gym bag in direct sun.
Quick answers
Is IPX4 enough for the gym?
For light to moderate sweat it is generally fine, as long as you wipe the earbuds afterwards. For heavy sweat or running in the rain, IPX5 or IP55 gives more margin.
Can I swim with water-resistant earbuds?
Generally no. Most earbuds are not rated for immersion, and Bluetooth does not work well underwater.
Should I use ANC when running outdoors?
It is safer to use ambient or transparency mode, or keep the volume low, so you can hear traffic and people around you.
Why do my earbuds fall out when I run?
Usually the tip size or the angle of fit is the cause. Try a larger tip, insert with a slight twist, or consider a design with wings or hooks.
Find sweat-ready options in our wireless earbuds collection.
