What are the Best Sports Headphones for the iPhone or iPod?

Unfortunately you’re not going to like our answer.  We’re not going to unveil some secret list of sports earbuds to replace those horrible white earbuds that Apple packages with their products.  Why?  Because there is no such list.  In all honesty nearly every sports headphones manufacturer we’ve encountered ensures that one of the first things they do is check for compatibility with the iPhone and iPod.  It would be silly not to.  Thus, the best sports headphones for the iPhone or iPod are – in most cases – the best sports headphones for any device.

However, some sports headphones are taking it to a whole new level by including specific integration with the iPhone with control talk features and in-line phone and music controls.  It’s these headphones that we recommend you look at first.

Our Top 6 Sports Headphones for the iPhone

*Note: we have not rated this list 1-6, these are just our overall top 6 listed in alphabetical order.

Bose MIE2i

The Bose MIE2i are an adaptation from their industry leading Bose IE2 headphones, with a specific focus on increased functionality with Apple products.  The in-line controls feature call controls, such as one touch answering and volume and track controls that work seamlessly with Apple products

Of all the headphones on the list the Bose MIE2i and the Sennheiser CX 680i are the only sports earbuds that utilize an ear fin system to hold the earbuds in place while working out or training.  This is becoming increasingly popular for people who are trying to avoid an in-ear canal earbud, but still wanting a great fit.

Click here for our full review

Klipsch Image S4i

The Klipsch Image S4i are a takeoff of the Klipsch Image S4, with the added functionality of a 3 button Apple control.  One feature they put a lot of effort into is an echo-cancelling  microphone that is built into the in-line controls.  This can definitely come in handy if you’re using these to answer a call while at the gym.

While the Klipsch Image S4i are still an incredible set of sports earbuds for the iPhone, we highly recommend you check out the updated Klipsch Image S5i (directly below).

 Click here for our full review

Klipsch Image S5i

Klipsch decided to capitalize on the popularity of the Klipsch Image S4i by creating the Klipsch Image S5i.  Not only do they also sound amazing and utilize their patented oval ear tips, but they’ve also put a major emphasis on durability which will go a long way for any athlete that loves to train while tuned into their favorite songs.

One additional feature they’ve added to the inline controls is to make the actual buttons larger.  This makes these headphones perfect for someone utilizing them with gloves on, for instance, skiing.

 Click here for our full review

Polk Audio UltraFit 3000

The UltraFit 3000 from Polk Audio are the newest sports headphones on this list and also the only ear hook headphones included.  These are 1 of 4 of Polk Audio’s new line of sports headphones and one of the only ones to include in-line controls that function with the iPhone.

While these are a bit newer and not as tested as the others on this list, Polk Audio is well known for extraordinary sound quality and if you’re a runner you may like the addition of the ear hook to keep these in place.  Definitely check these out.  It doesn’t hurt that they look pretty nice as well, coming in multiple different colors.

Click here for our full review

Sennheiser CX 680i

The Sennheiser CX 680i are very similar to the Bose MIE2i, in that they also utilize an ear fin system for a secure fit while working out.  Just like the Bose, these headphones will stay put once you have them in.

An added benefit that you’ll notice most Sennheiser sports headphones utilize is the bright yellow color on the controls and cord.  Not only does at add a little bit of style, but it’s also a safety factor for anyone running at night or working out at dusk.

 Click here for our full review

Sennheiser PMX 680i

The Sennheiser PMX 680i are the only neckband headphones on this list.  They utilize the same system as the Sennheiser CX 680i (mentioned above).

These are some of the single most popular sports headphones in the past couple years, and continue to be a standard for neckband headphones.  We’ve had some great input from cyclists who really love these headphones.

Click here for our full review

What are some other sports headphones that work great with the iPhone?

As we mentioned above it is very rare that we come across earbuds that don’t function well with Apple products.  While the above sports earbuds have the added functionality of in-line controls to add to their sports features, there are still other great workout earbuds for the iPhone.  If you’re looking to check out some of the other options, we highly recommend you check out these amazing sports headphones.

The post Best Sports Headphones for iPhone appeared first on Workout Headphones Pro.

Pros

Sweat Resistant.  While a lot of sports headphones claim to be sweat resistant, these stand up to just about any test.

Cable Length Options.  Either use the shorter cable with an armband or switch to the longer cable with inline controls.  Both work great.

Ear Fins.  These are less intrusive than over ear hooks or having to jam the ear buds deep in your ear canal, and work better.

Cons

Ear Fins.  We know we listed this as a pro, but the thing is most people aren’t used to this type of fit and end up finding it somewhat awkward.  Though we still think they’re amazing.

Full Review

If you’re tired of in-ear canal earbuds that make you feel like you have to spend 3 minutes jamming them into your ear just to get a great fit then the Sennheiser CX 680 may be the perfect fit for you.  We really love the new ear fin technology that utilizes a soft silicone fin to rest just inside the ear.  They pass just about every secure fit test we can think of.

In addition they are sweat resistant and noise isolating.  While the noise isolation isn’t up to the standards of Ultimate Ears or Shure, they are pretty impressive for workout headphones, and it definitely makes a difference at the gym.

Check out the Bose IE2 or the Jaybird Freedom JF3 if you’re interested in some other very similar style workout headphones.  Also be sure to check out the CX 680i for enhanced usability with the latest iPhone or iPod models.

Read more customer reviews here

Specifications

• Sennheiser custom EarFin stability system
• Sweat-resistant
• Noise Isolating
• Fit Kit included to adjust Earfins
• Volume adjuster and 3 button control with mic
• Kevlar reinforced cabling for increased durability
• Weight: 0.42 ounces
• Warranty: 2 years

 What’s in the Box?

• Sennheiser CX 680 earphones
• 3 sets of ear adaptors (S/M/L)
• 3 sets of ear fins (S/M/L)
• Headphones cleaning tool
• Extension cable with volume control
• Storage pouch
• Cable Clip
• 1 pair of housing covers
• 1 pair of diaphragm guards

Where to Buy?

Amazon, hands down the lowest prices around.

The post Sennheiser Adidas CX 680 Sports Headset Review appeared first on Workout Headphones Pro.

Pros

Upgraded for the iPhone.  The remote and microphone are supported by iPod touch (2nd and 3rd generation), iPod classic, iPod nano (4th and 5th generation), iPod shuffle (3rd generation), iPhone 4, iPhone 3GS, iPad and Macbook, Macbook Pro and Mac Pro (2009 and later). Voice Control is supported by the latest iPod touch, iPhone 4 and iPhone 3GS.

Safety.  It’s not something a lot of people think about, but Sennheiser added a reflective yellow stripe on the neckband for increased visibility and safety.  Perfect for those who like to workout later after sunset.

Durable Neckband.  A lot of runners will swear by using a neckband to ensure a secure fit, but it’s difficult to design a neckband that is comfortable and durable.  Well Sennheiser did just that with their flexible ergonomic neckband design.

Cons

Sound Quality.  The sound quality continues to be a slight problem, even though we thought the sound quality was fine.  Some people have complained about the sound quality of the earbuds.  Typically sound quality can be increased with in-ear canal earbuds, but Sennheiser emphasized a fit and durability with the PMX 680i.

Full Review

The original Sennheiser PMX 680 are some of the most popular workout headphones to date.  By increasing in-line compatibility with Apple’s new products the Sennheiser PMX 680i may become even more popular over the next few years.  While there are several neckband headphones available there aren’t many (if any at all) that are better suited than the PMX 680i.

Specifications

• Compatibility: iPod, iPhone, and all MP3 players
• Sweat-resistant
• Water-resistant
• Washable earbuds
• High output drivers
• Dupont Kevlar reinforced cable, preventing damage
• Weight: 0.65 ounces
• Warranty: 2 years

What’s in the Box

• 1 pair of PMX 680i Sports headset
• 1 pair of foam ear pads
• 1 cable clip
• 1 storage pouch

Where to Buy

We always find the best prices at Amazon.

The post Sennheiser Adidas PMX 680i Sports Headset Review appeared first on Workout Headphones Pro.

Update 6/29/15: The PMX 680 earbuds have been discontinued by Sennheiser, but is still available on Amazon in limited supply.

One of the most popular sports headphones in the headphone series created by Sennheiser and Adidas is the PMX 680 Sports Earbuds.

Pros

Ergonomic Neckband.  A lot of runners swear by using a neckband to ensure a good fit, but it’s difficult to create a neckband that is comfortable for everyone.  Well Sennheiser did just that with their flexible ergonomic neckband design.

Extremely Comfortable.  In addition to the neckband which locks the headphones in place, unlike newer models these earbuds are not in-ear canal.  They rest comfortably on the outer ear.

Increased Visibility.  It’s not something a lot of people think about, but Sennheiser added a reflective yellow stripe on the neckband for increased visibility.  Perfect for those who like to workout later or at night.

Big Time Bass.  If you’re like us then you love some nice bass and these headphones won’t disappoint.

Cons

Sound Leakage.  The PMX 680 are not in-ear canal ear buds.  Instead the ear buds sit just outside the ear canal.  On one hand they seem to be a lot more comfortable, but you will experience some sound leakage.

Full Review

Sennheiser put quite a bit of time into testing these neckband workout headphones for heavy movement, which essentially means bring on any sport and they’ll stand up to the test.  The Sennheiser PMX 680 also have a built in moisture protection system making them ideal for active environments.

The foam earpads are comfortable, washable and packed with high intensity sound, making every workout you have better.  Not only are the headphones lightweight and sturdy but they also won’t be falling out of your ears during your next workout, primarily due to the neckband.

One other feature we really like is the ability to choose between different length cables.  Sennheiser has included a shorter cable for use with an armband or longer extension cable with in-line volume controls for those who workout with their MP3 player around their hip or in their pocket.

We recommend these sports earbuds for anyone.  No lie, these headphones are amazing; it is no wonder they are one of Sennheiser’s best selling sports headphones of all times.

Specifications

• Compatibility: iPod, iPhone, and all MP3 players
• Sweat-resistant
• Water-resistant
• Washable earbuds
• High output drivers
• Dupont Kevlar reinforced cable, preventing damage
• Weight: 0.65 ounces
• Warranty: 2 years

What’s in the Box

• Sennheiser PMX 680 Sports Earbuds
• Short cable
• Long cable with in-line volume control
• Cable clip
• Storage pouch
• (1) pair foam earpads

Where to Buy

We check prices regularly and always find the best prices at Amazon.

Click here to grab them while they’re still in stock at Amazon.

The post Sennheiser/Adidas PMX 680 Sports Earbuds Review appeared first on Workout Headphones Pro.