Running is the new badminton. Everyone who is hip runs. The really cool people do marathons. That’s not to say you can’t be cool if you don’t run, but one thing is for sure: if you run, then you can always do with a heart-pumping playlist that will get you the extra mile.
And to get the most of the music – and your workout – good quality headphones, or earphones, should be at the top of your list. These devices can get really pricey, but audiophiles will tell you they’re worth it. For running, though, there are other considerations that are necessary to make the right decision. Here’s a handy list of running headphones that will do the job without burning a hole in your pocket.
Sennheiser Adidas PMX 680i
Sennheiser is a solid brand, with a wide range of earphones/headphones catering to various needs. For runners – or sports enthusiasts in general – this pair is an excellent choice. Even lower end Sennheisers deliver good audio, so that is not an issue with most pairs. What turns me off about this pair is the color, and I have not seen any other color scheme. That, however, should not be a big issue for most people.
Thumbs up for: Stylish; feels ultra comfortable and does not fall out; sweat and water resistant
Price: $56.98 on Amazon
Klipsch S5i
I am a big Klipsch fan, so in spite of this pair not having a band to keep it in place, I still think highly of it. In any case, this pair of Klipsch earphones is perfect for those who like listening to music all the time. In terms of audio quality, experts will say that this pair is entry level, but to be honest, the average person will already marvel at what this pair has to offer. Additionally, for sports enthusiasts, the S5i was designed with rugged use in mind. It’s pricier than the Sennheiser, but it’s worth it.
Thumbs up for: Noise isolation; weather resistant; changeable ear tips for comfort fit; rubberized remote buttons and tangle-resistant cables
Price: $89 on Amazon
Philips SHS5200 Stereo Headphone
If you are really on a tight budget, these Philips headphones will do the trick. They may not live up to the two other brands in terms of audio quality, but they are decent enough for the price. Additionally, I really like how the headphones look.
Thumbs up for: Very affordable! Relatively comfortable; durable – especially the cord; sweat resistant
Price: $26.99 on Amazon (Did I already say it’s priced really awesomely?)
[Image via Ed Yourdon]