On September 14, 2011 long time audio provider Polk Audio decided to take it to the next level with the launch of their High Performance Ultrafit Sports Headphones. With the help of athletes like Rudy Gay of the Memphis Grizzlies and Heather Mitts of the U.S. Women’s Soccer Team, Polk Audio releases 4 sets of new headphones specifically targeted at the exercise and fitness enthusiast.
Features at a Glance
The Polk Audio Ultrafit series includes 4 models: 2 in-ear, 1 in-ear-canal, and 1 over-ear headphones.
General Features for all Models
- 3 different cable lengths included for hip, arm, and collar clip locations
- SecureFit technology ensures the headphones won’t fall out
- Moisture Shield keeps them sweat-resistant
- StrainGuard technology uses durable material eliminates cable failure
- 3 different size StayFit silicone ear tips included
- Sweat-wicking mesh storage pouch
UltraFit 500
- Price Range: $50-$55
- Moderate noise isolation
- No in-line controls or microphone
- In-ear fit designed to sit on flange of ear canal
- Colors: red/black, gold/black, gray/white, orange/white
Check out more information for the Ultrafit 500 here
UltraFit 1000
- Price Range: $70-75
- Similar to UltraFit 500
- Added 3 button in-line remote control and microphone (both work with iPhone, iPod)
- Colors: red/black, gray/white
Check out more information for the Ultrafit 1000 here.
UltraFit 2000
- Price Range $70-75
- Over-ear version of the UltraFit 1000
- Colors: red/black, orange/white
Check out more information for the Ultrafit 2000 here.
UltraFit 3000
- Price Range $100-105
- In-ear-canal fit offers highest sound quality and noise isolation
- Colors: red/black, gray/white, orange/white
Check out more information for the UltraFit 3000 here.
Our Initial Review
Polk Audio seems to have put a major emphasis on ergonomics in terms of athletic performance. Basically, they want you to be comfortable when you put their sports headphones on. This can also be seen with their addition of 3 different cable lengths, something we haven’t seen from a sports headphones manufacturer yet. You have the option to use a long cable to attach to your MP3 player on your hip, a mid range cable to attach to an armband, or a short cable to attach to your collar.
They’ve also done a good job as far as looks, offering black and white designs in all models, and in some models orange and white, or black and gold.
There have been some complaints about sound quality for the lower models, but it is a little too early to tell. Though another built in feature is their “Environmental Awareness” factor. None of the models are noise-isolating, but they all have noise moderation, meaning you’ll block out a lot of ambient noise, but not so much that you won’t be aware of your surroundings. This is definitely a plus from a safety point of view.
Right now it seems their best option is the UltraFit 3000 in terms of dollar for dollar value, and coming in right around a $100 these new headphones are definitely going to be worth the price.
Check back for more in depth reviews to come for each model.
