Finding a decent waterproof MP3 player may be somewhat easy, especially since Apple is releasing products like their Waterfi Waterproof iPod Shuffle. The problem comes along when you’re trying to find a quality pair of waterproof headphones.
General Criteria
We previously outlined our general criteria for best sports headphones here.
Swimming Criteria
- Waterproof. This may seem like a no brainer, but unfortunately many companies claim their headphones are “waterproof” when in fact they mean water-resistant, which is entirely different. Swimming headphones should be 100% waterproof up to at least a depth of 10 feet, which will be more than sufficient.
- Multiple Earbud Sizes. Most waterproof headphones utilize high quality earbuds to create a tight seal in your ear canal, preventing any intrusion of water. You’ll want to make sure the pair of swimming headphones you pick up have different size earbuds to ensure a good fit.
Best Swimming Headphones of 2011
This is the only list in our Best of 2011 series that features just 2 pairs of headphones as opposed to 3. We just didn’t think there were 3 real high quality headphones and didn’t want to steer anyone in the wrong direction.
Number 1 – H2O Audio Surge Waterproof Sport Headphones
H20 Audio has a lock on the larger market segment of swimming headphones. This is well known. And the reason being is they make some of the best swimming headphones for the most affordable price. We don’t think they compete in terms of sound quality with some of the bigger players like Audio Bone, but they more than make up for it with their great warranty and customer service. Expect to see their new line of swimming headphones dominate 2012.
Number 2 – Laird Hamilton Signature Waterproof Headphones
The Laird Hamilton Waterproof Headphones have been around the block a few times. H20 Audio continues to improve each year with their swimming headphones and their new line is certain to bump these headphones off this list. But for now, they sit at number 3.
Bonus – Waterfi 100% Waterproof MP3 Player Swim System
We know these aren’t exactly swimming headphones, but we wanted you to see our top pick for waterproof MP3 player. This system is great for anyone looking for a one stop shop for swimming headphones.
What to expect in 2012?
While we would have loved to tested the new H20 Audio product, they’ll have to wait until 2012 to make our “Best of…” list. On November 22, 2011 they release their latest swimming headphones, the H2O Audio IE2-MBK Contact 2G. Also expect to see a lot more headphones that are specifically made for iPods, such as the Waterfi above.
