We love tuning out of the world and listening to our favorite tunes or podcasts using our regular headphones. However, for activities like working our or fishing, a regular pair of earbuds will not suffice since it’s not water-resistant or waterproof. While there are ways in which you can fix water-damaged headphones, there are specific headphone models which are quite delicate, therefore unsalvageable. So, if you want to enjoy music while participating in water sports or any water-related activity, make sure that you have some good waterproof earbuds on hand. Get the essentials on these babies in this guide.
Top Questions
Buyers Guide
- What does water-resistant, water-repellent and waterproof mean?
Answer: Those terms are associated with water protection, with water-resistant as the lowest level. Water-resistance is usually seen on watches and this means it can endure slight rain and handwashing. Water-repellent means the device is capable of warding off water through some type of thin, film-like nanotechnology coating. Waterproof means the device is impervious to water—it is coated or built with a structure that helps safeguard the device against water damage.
- What factors should I consider when looking for waterproof earbuds?
Answer: First and foremost, you need to check the water protection level that the earbuds come with. Are they sweat-resistant? Water-repellent or waterproof? Check the IP rating of the earbuds to gain more knowledge about its water protection levels. Next, you need to check the impedance of the earbuds. To keep your ears safe from harsh sounds, choose ones with mid-range sensitivity. Look for pairs with bigger drivers for the best overall sound. The earbuds should also fit your ear comfortably while at the same time, remain secure—the earbuds should be able to burrow lightly on the holes of the ears.
- How do you clean and maintain earbuds?
Answer: To take away dirt and debris, you can clean the insides of the earbuds by using a small, soft brush. Stuck wax is inevitable so make sure you have an appropriate cleaning device for it—they’re not expensive and regular cleaning of those buds will help lengthen their service. Take away the eartips and use the device’s metal loop to pick up ear wax. Use a soft brush to clean contaminants that remain on the earbuds. Wipe the tips with damp, soapy cloth and dry them completely before fastening it on the earbuds. Store the earbuds in a case or a pouch when it’s not in use.
Our Top Picks
#1
Underwater Audio HydroActive Short-Cord Waterproof Headphones
- Extremely waterproof method
- Includes 3.5 mm headphone jack
- Great for swimming, boating, kayaking
- Easy to use
The Underwater Audio HydroActive Short-Cord Waterproof Headphones wants you to enjoy your music while taking part in your favorite water sports or water-related activities, whether you’re a daredevil in the surf or doing laps in the pool. It is easy to put on and remove, makes use of an extremely waterproof method to protect the earbuds from water damage and is designed to maintain a clear, high-quality sound throughout.
#2
Ikanzi Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds
- Has IPX7 waterproof
- Provides 3-4 hours playback on full charge
- Bluetooth 5.0 support
- Includes charging case
Let us get into the Bluetooth models. Here, we have the Ikanzi Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds which are capable of resisting rain and sweat, thus this pair is great to use in the gym. A slight drizzle will not budge these earbuds thanks to its IPX7 rating. The earbuds can provide as much as 4 hours of playback following a charge—it already comes with its own charging case. It can be switched on automatically and paired after a charge too. Compatible with any device that accommodates Bluetooth, at up to 33 ft. of range.
#3
Pasonomi Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds
- Has IPX7 waterproof rating
- Comes with charging case
- Has Bluetooth 5.0 support
- Pairs quickly
Still on the hunt for a good Bluetooth earbud you can take with you while showering? This pair might work. The Pasonomi Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds makes use of a One-Step pairing technology so you can get your tunes fast—drag the left and right earbuds out of the box and it will instantly pair up. The earbuds also presents high-quality lossless HD-rendering technology for exceptional sound. This means you can enjoy your tunes even in noisy spaces. As for its waterproof rating, it’s IPX7 and this translates to safer earbuds while showering, running, doing hot yoga and hiking.
#4
H2O Audio 100% Waterproof Headphones
- Has IPX8 waterproof rating
- Includes high-quality internal sound components
- Has ergonomic shape
- Set has 5 earplugs with free tips
You can have your tunes beneath the water with this top option. The H2O Audio 100% Waterproof Headphones has an IP rating of IPX8 so you can enjoy your fav music while taking a shower, surfing, paddle-boarding, running under the rain and while 12 ft. underwater—yes, this is a nice pair to take during lap practice. The earbuds feature an ergonomic, clipped shape which conforms very well within the ears—it is made to facilitate correct ear bud alignment with the ear canal for a comfortable wear.
#5
Boltune Wireless Headphones
- Has IPX7 waterproof rating
- Supports Bluetooth 5.0
- Provides 16-hour continuous playback
- Comes with 10mm dynamic drivers
The Boltune Wireless Headphones is designed to support both good sound and effective waterproofing. It has an IP waterproof rating of IPX7 which means it can withstand heavy rain and perspiration exposure. The earbuds does not sacrifice sound even though it’s a small, compact piece—along with the Bluetooth 5.0 support, great noise isolation, SBC Bluetooth profiles for tuning the AAC and 10mm dynamic drivers, you can guarantee uninterrupted high-quality audio. Set comes with 3 ear tip pairs and ear hooks.
#6
Swimbuds 100% Waterproof Headphones
- 100% waterproof
- Has gold-plated anti-corrosion stereo jack
- Flanged earbud design
- Includes 4 earbud tips
The Swimbuds 100% Waterproof Headphones guarantees you can have your choice tunes without water seeping right into it—the earbuds have a tight, secure and waterproof seal that is totally foolproof. Will remain in place during use, even at your most strenuous swimming, surfing paddle boarding and rafting activities. The cord has a sufficient length to so as not to get caught in your body or other gear. Great sound with a robust construction/design.
If you get your adrenaline through music combined with your favorite active pursuits, a pair of high-quality waterproof earbuds is a must. These waterproofed earbuds are designed to nix sweat, water and other liquids even when you’re in the middle of rigorous activities. Enjoy your pair while swimming, surfing, canoeing, paddle-boarding, snowboarding and lots more.