• Stays secure on your ears and won’t drop easily no matter what type of activities you perform
• Very sleek and light when it comes to its physical design
• One of the cheapest pair of running headphones in the market today
• Comes in several different colors to match your preference of style
• Does not leak any sound, so people near you won’t be bothered with the music that you are playing

Cons

• The sound quality of Sony MDR-J10 h.ear Headphones isn’t very good as its bass is quite shallow
• Can be a bit uncomfortable when worn for a long period of time

Review

When it comes to running or performing activities that involves a lot of physical motion, most people prefer to use headphones that are designed to be clipped on the ears rather than those that comes with a neckband. This is because ear clip audio devices like the Sony MDR-J10 h.ear Headphones stays more secure on the ears no matter how vigorous their training sessions can be. You will be able to use this product while you are training with weights in the gym, doing yoga, or having your own dance aerobic session at home, without ever having to worry about them accidentally slipping from your ears like regular earphones do.

The Sony MDR-J10 h.ear running Headphones comes with a design that is very sleek and light. You will be able to choose from a selection of colors in the stores where they are being sold (or on the internet), so that you can find one that will match your own style. Unlike other similar products in its price range, this device does not leak the music you are listening to, so you won’t have to be concerned whether or not the person next to you can hear what is on your playlist.

Since the Sony MDR-J10 h.ear Headphones is being sold at less than 10 dollars, it would be unfair to expect a lot from this device. It’s audio quality is not built to compete with the best around. If you are looking for something that can give you rich and deep bass sounds, this certainly is not the running headphones for you. However, if your goal is to find a cheap pair of earphones that will stay on your ears no matter how rough you train, then this should definitely be among the top on the list of the products you are considering.

One of the biggest concerns that some people have with this pair of running headphones is that it can be a bit uncomfortable at first to wear, especially if you have been using it for a long period of time. The ear clips can be a little too tight for some people and can cause a slight pain sensation at the back of their ears. If you experience this as well, just continue wearing them for a week or two. You will eventually get used to this headphones, and the uncomfortable sensation will diminish and disappear.

Bottom Line:  The Sony MDR-J10 h.ear Headphones does not come with rich audio quality and will not please people looking for a deep bass audio system to accommodate their playlist. But if  you are looking for a cheap pair of running headphones that will not slip off your ears no matter what activity you do, this device is the right one for you.

• Good Bass quality at its price range
• Nylon wound cord means it is durable and won’t strip easy
• Ear cushions provide comfort
• Utilizes pull relief system to increase cable dependability

Cons

• Neckband is not adjustable
• High tones or pitches can be harsh if you have your volume cranked up
• Not quite durable
• Lets ambient noise in

Review

If you are looking for a pair of running headphones that can easily fit in your budget but can still deliver good audio quality, the Philips Rich Bass Neckband Headphones SHS5200/28 should definitely be one of the items that you should consider.

This product cost around 10 to 15 dollars, which is a lot cheaper than what popular brands like Nike and Adidas has to offer. Its bass system is better than comparable earphone devices in its price range, and its physical design is certainly a lot more appealing than most products you will find in the market today.

The Philips Rich Bass Neckband Headphones SHS5200/28 comes with a nylon wound cord, that ensures it won’t easily strip and can last longer than what other running headphones have. It features ear pad cushions so that the user will be able to wear it for a long time without feeling any discomfort at all. This product is worn on your ears and not in them, that is why it will be able to fit anyone regardless of the size of their ear canals. Another notable feature that a lot of users like about this particular device, is that Philips has utilize a pull relief system on its cord, adding some elasticity to it, to prevent easy breakage from accidental tugs and pulls.

Perhaps one of the most significant complaints that some users have with the Philips Rich Bass Neckband Headphones SHS5200/28, is the fact that its neckband is not adjustable. If you are using this item as your running headphones, you might experience it bouncing at the back of your head especially if it doesn’t really fit you very well.  This can get pretty annoying and may eventually affect your training if it bothers you quite often.

Some users also claim that this device is not really built for durability. This is because  the headphone itself is made out of plastic materials,  and it can easily be damaged if dropped accidentally, or if a mishandling occurs.

The Philips Rich Bass Neckband Headphones SHS5200/28 does not feature ambient noise reduction. While this may be a bad thing for those looking to focus on their music while they workout, it is actually quite advantageous to those who do their runs outdoors. After all, it is necessary for you to hear what is happening in your surroundings so that you can ensure your safety even while you are in the middle of your run.

This Philips earphone is not exactly the best that you will find in your search for running headphones. But if you don’t have more than 30 dollars to spare, this is one of the products in the market that can give you good value for your money, especially if you want something that has a good enough audio quality to satisfy your need for music.

Bottom line: The Philips Rich Bass Neckband Headphones SHS5200/28 may not be the best, but it is one of the top earphones to look for in its price range when it comes to audio quality and design. The most significant problem that some people have with this product, is the fact that it is not adjustable.

• One of the most affordable running headphones in the market today
• Adjustable clips to accommodate different ear shapes and sizes
• Sweat Proof
• Lengthy cord to accommodate gym workouts

Cons

• Can cause some discomfort in your ears during long periods of use, as its ear piece is made of hard rubber.
• Sound quality is still not as good as other sports headphones
• Other people can hear what you are listening to

Review

The JVC HAEB75B is one of the most popular running headphones in its price range today. Although it is a bit more expensive in comparison to the Sony MDR, a lot of people favors it because of its better design and sound quality.

This running headphones can easily be fitted on anyone’s ears as it features adjustable ear clips to ensure that it can be safely secured to eliminate the risk of accidentally dropping them while you are in the middle of your training session.  A lot of people have complained though, that the in-ear device this particular product is using is harder than it should be. As such, wearing this item for more than 45 minutes can cause you some discomfort in your ears.

The JVC HAEB75B also comes with a cord that is longer than what most sports headphone have to offer. While having a lengthy cord may be annoying to some runners, this proves to be quite favorable to those people who lifts weights in the gym. This also allows its owner to use this product for other purposes as well, and not just for running.

Surprisingly, even though the JVC HAEB75B only cost around ten to fifteen dollars, it is already designed to be splash proof. What this means of course, is that you can train with it as hard as you want, without having to worry about its integrity, as it will not easily break even if it is exposed to rain water or excessive amounts of sweat. This pair of running headphones is perfect for all types of athletes as it is good enough to withstand different environment conditions.

If you are looking for a relatively affordable sports headphone, this JVC model is certainly worth your consideration. It has all the basic features that most people require when it comes to running earphones, as it is both durable and stable when it comes to wearing it on your ears. However, you should not expect excellent audio quality at this price range. Although this pair of earphones can produce loud and clear sounds, its base system is simply not good enough to compete or even to be compared with higher end models.

If you are the type of person who has been pampered with high quality audio devices, this item may not be enough to satisfy your audiophile needs. However if you are simply looking for a cheap product that can accompany you during your runs and allow you to listen to your favorite playlist, then this may just be the right product for you.

Bottom line:  The JVC HAEB75B may not be the best pair of running headphones around, but it is certainly better than most cheap products. It comes with adjustable ear clips to ensure that this product remains secure on your ears no matter what your activities are. The only problem that most people have with it, is that its in-ear device is made out of hard rubber, which can be uncomfortable when used for a long time.

• The Sony MDR-W08L is ultra light weight and thin when it comes to its design
• Very cheap as compared to other running headphones in the market today
• Comfortably fits anyone no matter what the size of your ear canal may be
• Looks and design are better than most headphones in its price range

Cons

• Sound quality is passable, but definitely show its age as compared to the headphones in the market today.
• Bass is shallow and certainly not for users looking for the audiophile experience
• Not very durable as most people complains that it is too thin for its own good.

Review

Undeniably, the Sony MDR-W08L is one of the cheapest running headphones that you will be able to find in websites like Amazon today. The price of this product is around eight dollars, which is definitely a bargain as compared to the headphones that you will find in your local store. You may be surprise to know that this particular model, has been around for more than a decade now. But despite of its age, it is still one of the best looking earphone device that is below the 10 dollar price range.

The Sony MDR-W08L is one of the thinnest and lightest headphone of its kind. It is very comfortable to wear and it does not fall of easily from your head even while you are running. Because this product utilizes an in-ear design, anyone will be able to wear it comfortably even if their ear canals are relatively smaller than most people. It does not have any noise isolation feature, and it is fairly easy to hear what is happening around your environment. While this may prove to be disadvantageous to those who want to simply focus on their exercises and not be bothered by random events, this can actually be quite useful to those who prefer running outdoors. This way they will still be able to hear if a car is approaching near them and avoid unnecessary accidents.

The problem with this pair of running headphones is that it is already relatively old when it comes to the technology that it uses. The sound quality is not as good as what more recent headphones possess. Some people even complains that the bass system that it has is just terrible, and that it is only good for FM radio and not really for listening to your favorite music.

The Sony MDR-W08L is not also as durable as it should be. Although its thin design does a lot for its look, it also easily breaks if the user mishandles it. This may not be ideal for those who train vigorously with their workouts as there are better headphones out there that can withstand any types of environment. However, if you are just beginning with your workout routines and you can’t really afford the best headphones in the market yet, this is definitely worth your consideration. As long as you are not looking for excellent sound quality, this pair of headphones will be able to satisfy your needs.

Bottom line: The Sony MDR-W08L is one of the cheapest running headphones around. It’s design is relatively better than most headphones at its price range and it can comfortably fit anyone. However, the sound quality is not as good as most recent headphones have, and its bass system is considered terrible by a lot of people.

• Exceptional Sound Quality with marvelous bass system
• Securely stays put no matter what type of activity you perform
• Water resistant and highly durable

Cons

• Does not isolate ambient noise
• Large earbuds may be uncomfortable for some people

Review

For more than a couple of decades now, the quest for finding the perfect running headphones prove to be a difficult one. Although there are some brands who were able to provide the durability required to withstand extreme kinds of activities, they usually fall short when it comes to sound quality. The Sennheiser Adidas PMX 680 may just be what runners are searching for. The partnership between these two huge brands is proving to be quite a favorable one for consumers looking to have a whole new experience when it comes to their workouts and their music.

The first sign that these running headphones are indeed a cut above the rest, is the carrying sack that comes with it. This special draw string sack contains an extra set of foam earpads and a cable clip which you will find very useful in your training sessions. The Sennheiser Adidas PMX 680 is also provided with an extension cable that has integrated volume control. This extension cable can be used if you prefer to have your mp3 player on your pocket rather strapping it around your arm.

The sound quality of the Sennheiser Adidas PMX 680 is definitely something to brag about. It is clean, crisp, and comes with deep bass tones. Playing your favorite club music while you are running will certainly help you keep your spirits up as the audio integrity of this device can make you feel like you are truly on the dance floor.

If do your runs outdoors however, you will notice that the large earbuds of this running headphones can cause ambient noise to come in. Although some people dislike this as they want to keep their focus on their music and their workout, it is actually advantageous and can keep you safe during your training session. After all it is very important to be aware of your environment, especially if a car is approaching behind you.

The behind-the-neck design of the PMX 680 is also something that a lot of its owners are happy about. This ensures that your headphones stay with you and don’t easily get displaced even with activities that require a lot of movements. Its Kevlar reinforced cables can withstand exposure to harsh environment, ensuring that you will be able to use this product for a long time, and take it with you even in really cold places. This product is water-resistant as well, so you won’t have to bother removing it if it suddenly rains while you are in the middle of your run.

At 60 dollars, the Sennheiser Adidas PMX 680 is certainly not a cheap pair of running headphones. However, the audio quality and the durability that this product has to offer is well beyond those that other brands have. This item can be easily considered as one of the best headphones today.

Bottom line: The Senheisser Adidas PMX 680 is one of the best running headphones there is when it comes to both durability and sound quality. Its physical design is very well thought of, so it can be use comfortably by most people, without having to worry that it falls off during their training sessions.

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Sennheiser Adidas PMX 680 Sports Earbud Headphone with Volume control & Neckband

We partnered with Adidas on ergonomic design for a precise and comfortable fit.A unique moisture-resistant materials wicks away sweat and rain.Dynamic Sennheiser transducers deliver true sound performance. Designed for extreme movement. Flexible materials absorb shocks and strain. S

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JVC HAEB75B Sports Clip Headphone (Black)

Sports Clip Headphone

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Sony Ultra Lightweight MDR-W08L Vertical In-The-Ear Headphones

Sony’s MDR-W08L Vertical, In-The-Ear Headphones get you ready to rock! Featuring a Super-Light In-The-Ear Design, Sony Acoustic Turbo Circuitry, a High Power Neodymium Magnet, and an L-Shaped Mini Plug, these headphones combine quality sound with a comfortable fit. This product also admits outside sound for added safety when you are listening on the go.

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Philips Rich Bass Neckband Headphones SHS5200/28 (Replaces SHS5200)

Philips Rich Bass Neckband Headphones SHS5200/28 (replaces SHS5200)

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Sennheiser Adidas MX 680 Sports Earbud Headphones with Volume control & Earfin Clips

We partnered with Adidas on ergonomic design for a precise and comfortable fit.A unique moisture-resistant materials wicks away sweat and rain.Dynamic Sennheiser transducers deliver true sound performance. Designed for extreme movement. Flexible materials absorb shocks and strain. S ]]> http://www.runningheadphonescentral.com/reviews/top-5-running-headphones/feed/ 0 http://www.runningheadphonescentral.com/articles/an-overview-of-running-headphones/ http://www.runningheadphonescentral.com/articles/an-overview-of-running-headphones/#comments Mon, 05 Oct 2009 01:47:36 +0000 Jim Smith http://www.runningheadphonescentral.com/?p=12 Whether you’ve heard of running headphones or whether the idea is completely new to you, there is always something new to learn. If you are considering buying a pair, an overview of their purpose and the options available is a good place to start.

The purpose of running headphones is to give runners (and those who practice other exercises, activities, and sports) great sound with comfortable, secure, headphones. Standard headphones may rub against the head, ear, or neck when worn during a particularly active activity. They often fall out of the ear (earbuds) or off the head when the person wearing them jostles or changes direction. And some do not handle sweat well. Running headphones address all of these issues.

Like standard headphones, running headphones come in a few different styles and configurations. Traditional, top of the head headphone bands are becoming less and less popular, with people opting for back of the head and even neckband headphones. Earbuds are very popular, but may fall out in particularly active sports. Many athletes opt for ear clip headphones instead, as they are free of a band but secure solidly to the back of the ear. However, even standard layouts are made more sport-friendly, we extra secure design, construction, and material so that the running headphones stay solidly on the head no matter how active you are (within reason, of course; this does not apply to, say, wrestling).

Sweat resistance is important, especially to runners. Good running headphones will not have ink or coloration that fades or runs due to moisture. They also should be designed with materials that do not soak up moisture and smell (especially the earphone pads).

Finally, noise cancellation and noise reduction are options available in running headphones, just as with other types of headphones. While popular and an advantage for standard headphones, this is something runners should think about. More advanced isn’t always better. If you run outside near traffic, cyclers, and other hazards, it may be better to have an ear on what’s happening around you. It will keep you and those around you safer.

Something not everyone realizes is that there are special headphones made specifically for running and exercising. Here are some of the features and options that different models of running headphones will include:

Layout / style: This is the most diverse category, and it actually is not exclusive to running headphones. Most of these styles can be found in regular headphones as well. Which style you choose may vary depending on the type of exercise you do and, if you have long hair, where you place your ponytail while working out:

• Behind the head (with the headphone band going across the mid back of the head)
• Neck band headphones (with a lightweight band going down from the ears and around the neck)
• Earbuds (small speakers fitting into the cozy part of the ear)
• Ear clips (securing along the rear of the ear for a more secure fit)
• Standard/traditional (least common, with a band across the top of the head)

Wireless or wired: This also applies to standard headphones, but is probably more of an asset in running headphones than anywhere else. Using Bluetooth or other wireless technology frees you from the burden and distraction of a dangling cord or cords flipping around while you run (or snagging if you run it through your clothes).

For wired headphones, you can choose how protected/enclosed the wire is, and whether it runs directly to each earpiece, or just on one side (then through the headband to the other ear).

To noise-cancel or not to noise-cancel. This question has two aspects. If you exercise indoors and want to free yourself from background noise and fitness club mix radio, noise cancelling earphones are great. But if you run outside, background noise is an important part of awareness, which helps you avoid traffic and bicycles.

Certainly, some companies slap the “running” label on regular headphones to try to get in on the marketing frenzy. But there are quite a number of manufacturers that have really taken athletic headphones seriously. They’ve taken the time to listen to runners’ complaints and desires, and the result ahs been some pretty impressive, well performing running headphones.

Here are some of the things that set sport headphones for running apart from the regular kind you would listen to when riding the bus or going for a leisurely walk:

• More durable. Headphones intended for exercise are meant to be jostled about. A good set of running headphones is made of a durable material, and is designed in such a way that it can resist more knocking about than regular headphones can. Of course, everything will break at a point, but on the whole, these are designed for active people.
• More comfortable. No headphone set should be uncomfortable, but running headphones are specifically designed not to distract you from your workout. Many are lightweight and minimal, so as not to slow you down with weight or resistance.
• Secure. This is an especially important point. People who run, jog, use cardio machines at the gym, or lift weights on weight machines move around: a lot. The biggest problem using regular headphones to work out is that they are constantly falling off (or out) of your ear. Running headphones can handle being jostled. They’re specifically designed for people who bounce up and down, twist, turn, and yes, even sweat. You don’t want headphones that fall off or slip off because your sweating either. Getting a good pair of running headphones means you don’t have to worry about this any more.
• Minimal. Many are even cordless, which while always convenient, is especially so when you’re working out. The less wires, the less to tangle or get caught in, and the less distraction, so you can focus on your run, uninterrupted.

Here are the top ten reasons to buy running headphones:

1. Energize your workout. Listening to music while doing any sort of physical activity is a great way to get yourself pumped up and keep your mind off the uncomfortable aspects of the workout.
2. Secure fit. Running headphones are specifically designed not to fall off or slide about while you move.
3. Comfortable. They’re also specifically designed to be worn for long periods of time without causing pressure or discomfort by cutting into your skin as you move around.
4. Sweat-resistant. Many running headphones are designed for you to break a sweat. They should be made from easy to clean, sweat-resistant materials so you working hard doesn’t interfere with their lifespan.
5. Durable. Headphones for running are meant to be used often. They are not made from flimsy material, but should be able to handle sun, motion, and even being stored in a gym bag.
6. Wireless. Many exercise headphones are now wireless. Nothing is more inconvenient when you exercise than a wire or cord getting in your way. Wireless headphones often use Bluetooth technology for convenient communication with an MP3 player.
7. Noise-reducing. If you work out by jogging or running outside, you may deal with traffic and other loud noises. Noise-reducing headphones reduce some of the background noise so you can hear your music better, but not all: so you can still be aware of your surroundings.
8. Noise-cancelling. For working out in a gym. These cancel out background music, machines, and conversations so you just get the music you want.
9. Style. Athletic gear puts you in an athletic mood, and running headphones look the part. Feel good about your music when you hit the gym.
10. Personality. There are tons of different choices when it comes to the style, size, and layout of your headphones. Something for everyone.