The right headphones with the required features can make all the difference don’t you agree? They make riding fun! Yes! I do understand your concern about being cut off from your environment as soon as you plug in the headset. But do you know that there are now bone-conduction headphones that do not cut off the audio?
Yes, you can enjoy your music while being aware of your surroundings. Moreover, a study conducted at RMIT University showed that a bicycle rider wearing earbud earphones, with the music on at a reasonable volume, will hear more outside noise as compared to a car driver.
So, let’s take a look at some of the best cycling headphones available. I have tested various headphones and researched them too. Only these are the few that made the cut.
Best Cycling Headphones- Tried And Tested (In 2023)
| Headphones | Type | Price/$ |
|---|---|---|
| Haylou Purfree | Bone Conduction | 130 |
| AfterShokz Aeropex | Open-Ear Bone Conduction | 130 |
| JAYBIRD VISTA 2 | Earbuds | 149 |
| Klatre LS1 | Bone Conduction | 119 |
| APPLE AIRPODS PRO | Earbuds | 249 |
| Aftershokz Titanium Mini | Bone Conduction | 129 |
| ADIDAS FWD-02 | Earbuds | 170 |
| EKEN | Bone Conduction | 49 |
| BANG & OLUFSEN BEOPLAY E8 | Earbuds | 332 |
| Boltune True Wireless Earbuds | Earbuds | 65 |
Notice: All the mentioned prices are subject to change.
1. Haylou Purfree
- Type: Bone Conduction
- Price: MSRP $109.32
Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Frame Material | Titanium |
| Weight | 28g |
| Quick Charging | 10 minutes = up to 2 hours of playback |
| Bluetooth Connectivity | Two BLE connections simultaneously |
| Comfortable Design | Lack of ear canal placement, comfortable with glasses |
| Sound Quality | Good, minimal sound bleed |
| Call Features | cVc dual microphone call noise cancellation |
| Safety Features | Active noise-canceling for hearing protection |
| In-ear Option | Yes (earbuds), portable and covert fit |
Pros
- Comfortable
- Less Charge Time
- No Sound Bleed
- Ability To Run Several BLE Connections Concurrently
Cons
- Lacks Storage Case
2. AfterShokz Aeropex
- Type: Open-Ear Bone Conduction
- Price: MSRP $130
Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Technology | Bone-conduction |
| Manufacturer | Aftershokz |
| Cycling Headphones | Top-rated, including Aeropex and other wireless models |
| Sweat and Waterproof | Designed for arduous workouts, suitable for worst weather conditions |
| Moisture Detection Sensor | Warns if charging port is too wet during charging |
| Versatile Usage | Not recommended for swimming, but some users use them in water; suitable for showers |
| Audio Features | Dynamic bass, increased volume, and reduced vibration |
| Weight | Less than an ounce (26g) |
| Dual Device Connectivity | Can connect to two devices simultaneously |
| Awareness Level | Trade-off between sound quality and absolute awareness |
| Cost and Value | Most expensive in Aftershokz line; considered one of the best bone-conduction headphones |
Pros
- Waterproof
- Long Battery Life
- Outstanding Sound Quality
Cons
- Costly
- Unadjustable Beep Sounds
3. JAYBIRD VISTA 2
- Type: Earbuds
- Price: MSRP $89
Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Ergonomic Design | Fits well and stays in place during biking; favored by Jaybird and its athletes |
| Ear-Friendly Design | Overcomes challenges of other headphones; secure fit without discomfort during rides |
| Waterproof and Sweatproof | Essential for biking; prevents distraction and damage during rides, especially indoors |
| SurroundSense Technology | Active noise cancellation or ambient noise boosting for enhanced awareness and safety |
| Customizable Sound Quality | Online platform allows users to customize sound profiles based on personal preferences |
| Wireless Range | Bluetooth wireless range of 10m/33ft; reduces the risk of device damage during use |
| “Find My Buds” Feature | On the Jaybird platform; helps locate misplaced headphones after use |
| Legal Considerations | Beneficial for outdoor use where legal to wear headphones during activities like cycling |
| Premium Price Point | Considered among the most expensive headphones for cycling |
Pros
- Noise Cancelling
- Waterproof
- Built-in Mic
Cons
- Expensive
4. Klatre LS1
- Type: Bone Conduction
- Price: MSRP $64
Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| New Player | Klatre with their LS1 in the bone conduction market |
| Weight | Less than 31g; sleek and almost invisible design |
| Stability | Stays put during use |
| Battery Life | 8 hours; fully charged in about an hour |
| Wireless Range | Officially up to 10 meters (33 feet), reported signal up to 20 meters even with obstacles |
| Sound Quality | Similar to other bone-conduction headphones; may not satisfy audiophiles but suitable for outdoor activities |
| Outdoor Activities | Great for biking, running, and activities requiring awareness of surroundings |
| Awareness Feature | Even at full volume, allows users to hear surrounding sounds |
| Podcast Listening | Well-suited for continuous podcast use, also suitable for home use |
| Voice Control | Enables voice control with a large multifunction button |
| Bass Vibration | Temple vibration with loud bass music; can be adjusted using an equalizer (EQ) |
Pros
- Long Battery Life
- Less Charging Time
- Featherweight
Cons
- Annoying Bass Vibration
5. APPLE AIRPODS PRO
- Type: Earbuds
- Price: MSRP $249
Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Logo | White dots on the brand’s logo closely associated with wireless in-ear headphones |
| Compatibility | Requires Apple device for full functionality |
| Switching Feature | Best for cyclists needing quick switches between total sound immersion and active ambient hearing |
| Battery Life | Four to five hours of playtime; five minutes in the charging case provides an hour of listening or talking time |
| Smart Charge | Charging case features “smart charge” to optimize battery life by charging to 100% only when necessary |
| Wireless Charging | Magsafe compatibility for wireless charging |
| Customization | Interchangeable silicone tips for customizable fit; may require occasional adjustment during intense workouts |
| Sweat and Water Resistance | Designed to withstand sweat; suitable for light rain, caution advised in heavy rain |
| Connectivity | Connects to your phone, recognizes voice commands, works with Siri, and allows EQ adjustments |
| Cost | Considered expensive, but offers comprehensive functionality |
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Siri Connection
- Adaptive EQ
- On Ear-Touch Controls
- Extended Battery Life
Cons
- Expensive
- Only Completely Compatible With Apple Devices
- Not foolproof Waterproof
6. Aftershokz Titanium Mini
- Type: Bone Conduction
- Price: MSRP $89
Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Relation to Aeropex | Youthful counterpart to Aftershokz Aeropex, more affordable, compact, and comfortable |
| Performance | Not as exceptional as Aeropex; compromises in wireless connection and waterproof rating |
| Bluetooth Connection | Wireless Bluetooth connection may have some issues |
| Waterproof Rating | IPX55 – suitable for perspiration and light rain, not for showering |
| Sound Performance | Sound performance not as good as Aeropex, but still commendable for bone-conduction headphones |
| LeakSlayerTM Technology | Reduces sound leakage; titanium band is durable and flexible |
| Call Quality | Improved call quality with two noise-canceling microphones |
| Size | Suitable for smaller heads |
| Listening Time | 6 hours of listening time, 10 days of standby time |
| Charging | Full charge in approximately ninety minutes; 15-minute charge yields one hour of playback time |
| Controls | Track and volume controls on each earphone; automatic play/pause function |
| Wireless Range | Up to 33 feet (10 meters) |
Pros
- Light
- Small Size
- Comfortable
Cons
- Lagging Connectivity
- Poor Sound Quality
7. ADIDAS FWD-02
- Type: Earbuds
- Price: $170
Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Repositioning Solution | Designed for physical activity; includes various silicone ear tips for a customizable fit |
| Secure Fit | Earphones ‘lock’ into the ear, preventing repositioning during activities |
| Profile | Lower profile compared to bulkier options, suitable for activities like cycling |
| Occlusion Effect | Snug fit may cause an occlusion effect, increasing internal noises |
| Ambient Noise Setting | Ambient noise setting available, but may not fully eliminate internal noises |
| Noise Blocking | Admirable background noise blocking, lacking a dedicated noise-canceling mode |
| Playtime | Adidas claims 6 hours of continuous playtime; carrying case provides up to 24 hours of additional playback |
| Controls | Tap controls usable with gloves; Adidas headphones app available for tap instructions |
| Sweat Resistance | Breathable case suitable for sweat; not completely watertight, not recommended for use in heavy rain |
| Aesthetics | White version prone to accumulating sweat and dirt, potentially affecting appearance |
Pros
- In-Ear Lock Design
- Noise Cancelling Feature
- Responsive Ear-Tap Controls
Cons
- Unreliable Controls
- Average Battery Life
8. EKEN
- Type: Bone Conduction
- Price: $28
Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | Low-cost bone conduction headphones by Eken |
| Battery Capacity | 200 mAh lithium battery; standby life up to 20 days, phone call time up to 8 hours, music play time up to 6 hours |
| Waterproof Rating | IP54; suitable for sweat and protection against downpours |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.0 for quick and stable connection; works up to 10 meters away from the device; simultaneous connection to two devices |
| Sound Level | Low playback level; may render sound inaudible in noisy areas |
| Warranty | 30 days of free repairs and 12 months of service under warranty |
| Price | Great deal for the price |
Pros
- Affordable
- Nice Quality
Cons
- Not Adjustable
- Dull Sound
9. Bang & Olufsen Beoplay E8
- Type: Earbuds
- Price: $350
Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Bang & Olufsen |
| Model | Beoplay E8 Sport |
| Rapha Collaboration | Collaboration with Rapha; cycling logo removed in the available version |
| Sound Quality | Known for superior sound quality; customizable with Beosonic app |
| Water and Sweat Proofing | High water and sweat resistance; suitable for indoor and outdoor cycling |
| Transparent Hearing Mode | Amplifies sounds around you when activated |
| Noise Cancellation | No active noise-cancellation feature |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth equipped; compatible with modern smartphones and devices within a 10-meter range |
| Controls | Volume adjustment, track skipping, call answering, etc., with touch controls on the headphones |
| Charging | Supports both wired and wireless power sources; bulky charging case |
| Use Case | High-end in-ear headphones specifically designed for cyclists |
Pros
- Quality
- Sleek Design
- Waterproof
- Highly Compatible
Cons
- No Noise-Cancellation Option
- Huge Charge Case
- Expensive
10. Boltune True Wireless Earbuds
- Type: Earbuds
- Price: $60
Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Affordability | Likely the most affordable wireless earphones for cycling and sports |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth V5.0 technology for quick pairing, reliable communication, and a range of up to 50 feet |
| Sound Quality | Immersive sound with surprisingly good audio quality for the price |
| Battery Life | Bluetooth V5.0 for 6 hours of playback; up to 34 hours with the charging box |
| Charging | Type-C USB 3.1 connector with a 10 Gbps maximum transmission speed; 90 minutes for a full charge |
| Ambient Mode | Major drawback: lack of ambient mode for listening to surroundings |
| Call Quality | Phone call quality somewhat mediocre; best used one at a time or at a low volume |
| Water Resistance | IPX7 rating for water resistance; suitable for shower use or washing off after activities |
| Fit | Fit snugly; remain in ears well during activities like mountain biking |
Pros
- Prolonged Battery Life
- Waterproof
- Value For Money
Cons
- Not Suitable For Phone-Calls
- Lacks Ambient-Mode
Do Headphones Help or Hurt While Riding?
Since the invention of headphones, there has been discussion on whether or not cyclists should listen to music while pedaling. Using headphones while driving is a clear and present danger.
1. They Make You Unplug From Surroundings
The most significant worry is that it reduces a cyclist’s ability to hear approaching vehicles and other warnings, such as people shouting, dogs barking, and doors opening. When we ride our bikes, we can’t ensure everything is running smoothly because we have our headphones in. While one of the benefits of bicycling is getting up close and personal with one’s surroundings, listening to music on a portable device adds yet another layer of technology that disconnects us from that setting. Also, I’d like to think that my brain is strong enough that I don’t need an MP3 player to get me through a long ride or a particularly challenging interval.
2. What About The Safety Concerns
The issue of safety is central to the discussion. But even if headphone use does pose health risks, so what? Likewise, cycling in the open air, through the rain, or down a mountainside is an exciting experience. Staying inside where it’s warm and dry is my best bet for security. There’s an analogy that can be made between not using headphones and not using a helmet.
Many cyclists treat helmet use as mandatory, however, this is a completely arbitrary standard. Even though I always wear one, being forced to do so is annoying. However, the dangers associated with using headphones are more nuanced. Reason number one is care for the well-being of other motorists. Perhaps cyclists should refrain from using headphones for the same reason that drivers who insist they can safely text and drive should refrain from doing so. It’s unjust to take unnecessary risks in other people’s road space, regardless of one’s risk tolerance.
3. Hearing Loss
Loss of hearing has also come to my attention as a problem. At 85 decibels, which is only around 70% of the maximum level on a standard MP3 player, permanent damage can begin. It’s logical to suppose that a cyclist’s headphones would need to be significantly louder to withstand the noise of traffic and the constant buzz of wind in our ears, which currently reaches that level on busy streets.
4. There Are Also Traffic Safety Concerns
When it comes to traffic safety, people worry that wearing headphones or riding without a helmet makes accidents more likely or worse. Many people are willing to take this risk because they can easily see what could go wrong. Either you get hurt or you don’t, and it’s easy enough to ride carefully to avoid getting hurt.
Get the most out of your cycling routine with these amazing cycling apps!
The Best Headsets For Cycling
In my opinion, the finest headphones for cycling are bone conduction models since open-ear models are preferred for listening to ambient noise and situational music. Bone conduction headphones received nearly full marks in the test since they demonstrated that we could always hear approaching autos.
| Feature | Bone Conduction | Earphones | Wearable Speakers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Comfort | High | Moderate to High | Moderate |
| Alertness | High | Reduced | High |
| Sound Quality | Low | High | Moderate |
| Battery Life | Variable; generally lower | Varies; generally higher | Varies; generally moderate |
| Cost | Varies; often mid-range | Varies; often budget to high-end | Varies; often mid-range |
| Outside Noise Isolation | Low | High | Low to Moderate |
| Cable Hassle | None | Possible, even in wireless | None |
| Weight | Light | Light to Moderate | Moderate to Heavy |
| Bouncing | Minimal | Minimal | Slight to Moderate |
What Can Cycling Headphones Offer You?
That’s a good question! With the right headphones, you will be able to enjoy almost every aspect of cycling without worrying. They can offer you amazing sound clarity, waterproofing, amazing comfort, access to applications, and much more. There are plenty of reasons to get a good pair of cycling headphones. Well, first of all, you can listen to your amazing playlist during the rides, and you will also be able to upload all of that information to Zwift or other applications.
Listening to music with the highest volume whether it is cycling indoors or outdoors is just bliss, or you can use the headphones for other reasons. Some people love listening to podcasts that reflect on life or even some new innovative ideas. With a really good pair of headphones, you can easily shut off the outside world and focus on yourself entirely, just try it for yourself.
Get your cycling gear on and let’s explore the psychology of cycling together!
FAQs
Is It Illegal To Wear Headphones While Cycling In The US?
Using headphones while cycling or driving is currently not prohibited countrywide in the USA. Instead, each state must establish its own limitations and regulations. It’s crucial to examine the regulations of the state you’re in if you enjoy listening to headphones while driving.
Is It Safe To Wear Headphones While Riding?
A quick experiment revealed that wearing headphones at a respectable volume does not make you less susceptible to hearing road noise than drivers.
Also Read
- 20 Cool Bike Accessories That Will Make Other Cyclist Envious
- Top 34 Indoor Cycling Mistakes (What Are You Doing Wrong?)
Conclusion
On my list of the 10 best headphones for cycling, you’ll discover some incredible options to choose from. Every one of these models is beautiful in its special way. After testing, I found that the Haylou Purfree are the ideal headphones for cycling since they do not cause discomfort to the ears. They do not block out ambient sounds as a typical earbud would, and they stay securely in place.
However, we recommend that you scroll up and read our reviews to choose which model is the greatest suited for your lifestyle, as well as your budget and the requirements that you have.
