10 headphones for running, sports & active lifestyles #RunningWeek

Do you run with music? Pumping your favourite upbeat tunes can be a great motivator and listening to a podcast is often a good way to make the most out of your gym workout time.

While there’s a strong argument for ditching the tunes and practising mindful jogging – staying present and in the moment by immersing yourself in your surroundings – if you’re someone who needs a soundtrack to keep focused, the headphones that came with your phone or MP3 player are unlikely to cut the mustard.

There are plenty of impressive headphone models designed especially for sport use, and if they’re durable and wearable enough for running with they’ll do you proud on the way to work too. We’ve gathered together 10 of the best pairs – now all you have to do is to choose the ones that suit you best. Good luck!

1. Sol Republic Relays

Good looking, sweat proof and boasting a seamless universal fit so they’ll stay put while you give it your all, these headphones come with a choice of a 1 or 3 button audio controller plus built in microphone. They’re available in yellow, blue, black or silver and work with any device that has a 3.5mm jack. The audio controller is compatible with all the latest iPhone models plus Android and Windows devices.

Available from Argos for £59.99.

2. Jabra Sport Pulse Wireless Earbuds

Boasting a heart monitor, Dolby sound and real-time voice coaching with the Jabra Sport Life app, these headphones are more like a training partner than a music delivery system. They’re sweat- and weatherproof, so hook them up to your iOS or Android device via Bluetooth and you won’t have to worry about snagging wires while you run, whatever the weather.

Available for pre-order (October 1st release) from Jabra for $199.99.

3. Sennheiser PMX 685i Sports

Another modern twist on the standard headphone, this lightweight, rugged headset neckband rests comfortably around the back of your head, under your ponytail (if you have one). The integrated smart remote and microphone are a handy addition and a lot more graceful than a clunky handsfree for your phone. Another nice feature is “situational awareness”, meaning that you don’t feel blocked off from the world by the high output audio drivers. Safety first!

Available from Sennheiser for £44.99.

4. Pioneer SE-E721

Staying securely on your ears using a ‘skull fit hanger function’, these fully enclosed Bass Head earphones will flood your ears with stellar sound but should be used with caution when running near busy traffic or late at night. They come in red, white and black/white with a dual coiled cord and sweat proof design.

Available from Maplin for £39.99.

5. Denon AW-150

These slinky things offer wireless integration, GPS tracking, an integrated amplifier and a 7 hour rechargeable battery. They’re sweatproof, naturally, come in pink, orange, blue, black and yellow and have a handy reflective headband for added safety in low light. The anti-microbial ear tips are a very nice touch, hopefully keeping ear gunk at bay for the foreseeable future.

Available from Home AV Direct for £59.90.

Click here to check out five more of our favourite headphones for running and fitness.