7 Best Water-Resistant Headphones for Swimming That Maximize Performance
Discover our top 7 water-resistant headphones for swimming, featuring bone conduction and in-ear models with MP3 storage, Bluetooth, and superior waterproofing for your underwater workouts.
Looking for the perfect audio companion for your swimming sessions? Finding headphones that can withstand water exposure while delivering quality sound can be challenging. We’ve tested dozens of waterproof headphones to bring you the seven best options that combine durability, sound quality, and comfort.
Swimming with music transforms your ordinary pool workout into an immersive experience that keeps you motivated and engaged. The right water-resistant headphones need to stay securely in place through laps while providing clear audio underwater. Our comprehensive guide will help you choose the perfect pair based on your specific swimming needs, budget, and preferred features.
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Understanding Water-Resistant Headphones for Swimming
IP Ratings Explained
Water-resistant headphones are rated using the IP (Ingress Protection) system. The first digit indicates dust protection (0-6), while the second digit indicates water resistance (0-9). For swimming, look for headphones with IPX7 or higher—these can withstand immersion in water up to 1 meter deep for 30 minutes. IPX8 rated devices offer even greater protection, allowing for continuous submersion beyond 1 meter.
Bone Conduction vs. In-Ear Technology
Bone conduction headphones transmit sound through your cheekbones, keeping your ear canals open—ideal for situational awareness while swimming. In-ear headphones deliver audio directly into your ear canal with waterproof earbuds and tips that create a seal. Bone conduction typically offers better comfort and safety in water, while in-ear models generally provide superior sound quality and bass response, especially when properly sealed.
1. Shokz OpenSwim: Best Overall Bone Conduction Headphones
Key Features and Sound Quality
The Shokz OpenSwim Pro delivers impressive audio through bone conduction technology that transmits sound via vibrations, keeping your ears open for awareness. With 32GB of onboard storage, you can enjoy MP3 files without needing your phone underwater. The lightweight design (only 1 oz) ensures comfort during long swims, while the 9-hour battery life supports extended sessions. Sound quality is surprisingly rich and full, creating an immersive swimming experience.
Enjoy music anywhere with Shokz OpenSwim Pro. These waterproof headphones feature both Bluetooth streaming and a built-in 32GB MP3 player, plus an open-ear design for comfort and awareness during workouts.
Waterproof Rating and Durability
Featuring an IP68 waterproof rating, the Shokz OpenSwim Pro can be submerged up to 2 meters for 2 hours without damage. The non-adjustable band sits securely below your swim cap, preventing slippage during intense workouts. These versatile headphones transition seamlessly between water and land activities, making them ideal for triathletes and multi-sport enthusiasts who need reliable performance in various environments.
2. Sony Walkman NW-WS413: Best Built-In MP3 Player Option
The Sony Walkman NW-WS413 offers a completely self-contained solution for swimmers who want to enjoy music without additional devices. This all-in-one waterproof headphone combines durability with impressive sound quality in a compact package.
Storage Capacity and Battery Life
The NW-WS413 comes with 4GB of built-in storage capacity, letting you store up to 900 songs directly on the headphones. You’ll enjoy up to 12 hours of continuous playback on a single charge, easily covering a week’s worth of swim sessions. The quick-charge feature provides 60 minutes of playback from just a 3-minute charge when you’re in a hurry.
Comfort and Secure Fit During Laps
These headphones feature an ergonomic, wraparound design that stays firmly in place during flip turns and aggressive swimming. You’ll receive multiple sizes of earbud tips to ensure a customized, watertight seal. The lightweight construction (just 32g) makes them barely noticeable during extended swim sessions, preventing the ear fatigue common with heavier swimming headphones.
3. H2O Audio Tri Multi-Sport: Best for Serious Swimmers
For dedicated swimmers who need reliable audio equipment during their aquatic workouts, the H2O Audio Tri Multi-Sport headphones deliver exceptional performance both in and out of the water.
Professional-Grade Waterproofing
The H2O Audio Tri Multi-Sport headphones feature superior waterproofing technology specifically engineered for underwater use. These headphones can withstand complete submersion during intense swim sessions, making them ideal for lap swimmers and aquatic athletes. Their robust construction ensures they continue performing reliably even during extended exposure to chlorinated or salt water.
Compatibility with Swimming Apps
These versatile headphones offer dual functionality with both 8GB of onboard MP3 storage and Bluetooth connectivity. You can load your favorite playlists directly onto the device for underwater listening or stream music when near the surface. While Bluetooth doesn’t work well underwater, it seamlessly transitions for land-based workouts, making these headphones perfect for triathletes who train across multiple disciplines.
Key Features
- Bone Conduction Technology: Unlike traditional earbuds, these headphones transmit sound through your cheekbones, keeping your ear canals open for better awareness of your surroundings in the pool.
- Generous Storage Capacity: With 8GB of built-in storage, you can load hours of music, podcasts, and audio content for long training sessions without needing your phone nearby.
- Bass-Heavy Audio Profile: These headphones deliver impressive sound quality with enhanced bass response, providing motivating audio that cuts through the ambient noise of the pool environment.
Usage
The H2O Audio Tri Multi-Sport headphones truly shine as multi-purpose training companions. Whether you’re swimming laps, running on the beach, or hitting the gym, these headphones transition seamlessly between activities. Their versatile design makes them particularly valuable for cross-training athletes who don’t want to invest in separate audio solutions for different sports.
4. JBL Endurance Dive: Best Budget-Friendly Swimming Headphones
Performance at an Affordable Price
The JBL Endurance Dive offers impressive underwater audio without breaking the bank. These budget-friendly headphones deliver solid sound quality while maintaining a secure fit during your swim sessions. With 1GB of built-in storage, you can load up to 200 songs directly onto the headphones—perfect for those long training sessions in the pool. The touch controls are responsive even when wet, allowing you to navigate tracks without interrupting your swim rhythm.
IPX7 Rating Capabilities and Limitations
With an IPX7 waterproof rating, the JBL Endurance Dive can handle submersion up to 1 meter deep for 30 minutes—sufficient for most swimming activities. This rating makes them ideal for lap swimming, water aerobics, and casual pool sessions. However, they’re not designed for deep diving or extended underwater use beyond the 1-meter limit. For competitive swimmers who train at varying depths, you might need to consider options with higher IPX8 ratings that offer protection beyond the 1-meter threshold.
5. Underwater Audio Swimbuds Sport: Best for Custom Fit
Swimbuds Sport headphones stay secure during intense workouts with their short cord design. Enjoy a custom fit with 11 pairs of interchangeable earbud tips and rely on their durable, waterproof construction, backed by a 1-year warranty.
The Underwater Audio Swimbuds Sport stands out as the premier option for swimmers seeking a customizable fit that stays secure during intense water workouts.
Multiple Earbud Tips for Perfect Seal
Underwater Audio Swimbuds Sport comes with an impressive variety of earbud tip styles including tree-shaped, round, and fin tips to accommodate different ear shapes. This versatility ensures you’ll find the perfect seal, which is crucial for both sound quality and preventing water from entering your ear canal during swims. The multiple fit options make these headphones adaptable to virtually any ear anatomy.
Corrosion-Resistant Materials
These headphones are constructed with specialized corrosion-resistant materials specifically engineered to withstand prolonged exposure to both chlorinated pool water and salt water. The durable components prevent the deterioration commonly seen in regular headphones when exposed to moisture. This thoughtful material selection significantly extends the lifespan of your Swimbuds Sport, making them a reliable investment for regular swimmers.
6. FINIS Duo: Best for Underwater Sound Clarity
Bone Conduction Technology for Clear Audio
The FINIS Duo leverages advanced bone conduction technology to deliver exceptional sound clarity underwater. Unlike traditional headphones, these transmit audio through your cheekbones directly to your inner ear. This innovative approach keeps your ear canals open while swimming, enhancing both comfort and situational awareness. The vibrations bypass water interference that typically muffles sound, resulting in remarkably clear audio even during your most intense swimming sessions.
Coach-Recommended Features
Swim coaches consistently recommend the FINIS Duo for their unique design that secures firmly to your temples and cheekbones. The headphones feature a streamlined profile that won’t disrupt your swimming form or create drag in the water. With built-in MP3 storage, you can load your favorite playlists or training cues directly onto the device. Their intuitive button controls work effortlessly underwater, allowing you to adjust volume or switch tracks without interrupting your stroke rhythm.
7. Zygo Solo: Best for Real-Time Coaching
Enjoy music anywhere with Shokz OpenSwim Pro. These open-ear headphones offer Bluetooth and MP3 modes, IP68 waterproofing, and a secure fit for any activity.
Revolutionary Transmission Technology
The Zygo Solo transforms your swimming experience with groundbreaking FM radio transmission technology that outperforms traditional Bluetooth headphones underwater. Unlike Bluetooth signals that can’t penetrate water, Zygo’s transmitter broadcasts your audio content—music, podcasts, and coaching—directly to your headphones while you swim. Simply place your connected device by the poolside, and enjoy uninterrupted audio throughout your entire workout.
Companion App and Training Benefits
Zygo’s dedicated mobile app elevates your swimming routine with instructor-led workouts and specialized drills designed for all skill levels. The built-in accelerometer tracks your movements and progress in real-time, providing valuable performance insights. Future updates promise Peloton-style interactive sessions that will transform solitary lap swimming into guided, motivating workouts. This combination of audio coaching and performance tracking creates a comprehensive training system rather than just headphones.
Key Features
- Bone Conduction Technology: Transmits clear audio through your cheekbones rather than your ear canal, delivering impressive sound quality that actually improves underwater with surprisingly robust bass response
- Comfortable Secure Fit: Despite not being the most compact option available, the headset remains firmly in place during turns and vigorous swimming
- Premium Sound Quality: Offers exceptional audio clarity in the water, making it ideal for following coaching instructions
- Real-Time Feedback: Receives live instructions while swimming, allowing for immediate technique adjustments
The Zygo Solo represents a premium investment for swimmers seeking professional-level coaching and immersive audio. Its innovative transmission system solves the fundamental challenge of underwater audio, making it particularly valuable for technique-focused swimmers looking to improve their form through real-time guidance.
How to Choose the Right Waterproof Headphones for Your Swimming Needs
Earbuds vs. Bone Conduction
When selecting headphones for swimming, you’ll first need to decide between traditional earbuds or bone conduction technology.
Earbuds require a snug fit to create a waterproof seal in your ear canal. Look for options that include multiple earbud sizes to accommodate your specific ear shape. A proper seal is crucial not only for sound quality but also to prevent water from entering your ears while swimming.
Bone conduction headphones transmit sound through your cheekbones instead of your ear canal. This technology leaves your ears open, making it ideal if you wear earplugs or need to maintain awareness of your surroundings. Popular brands like FINIS and Shokz have perfected this technology specifically for swimmers, offering clear audio without blocking your ear canals.
Considering Your Swimming Environment
Pool vs. Open Water: For pool swimming, prioritize headphones with secure fits that minimize movement during turns. The Shokz OpenSwim Pro excels here with its swim-friendly audio mode and IP68 rating. For open water, you’ll need extra durability and a design that stays secure during varied movements.
Connectivity Options: Some headphones use FM transmitters to stream music poolside, overcoming Bluetooth’s water limitations. Others connect to waterproof smartwatches, requiring a compatible swimming watch with music storage.
Balancing Sound Quality with Waterproof Protection
Sound Performance: Bone conduction headphones often sound better underwater than on land. Models like the Shokz OpenSwim Pro and Zygo Solo deliver impressive audio once submerged. If you prefer earbuds, the Swimbuds Sport and H2O Audio Surge+ are engineered for underwater clarity.
Water Protection: Always check the IP rating—IP68 is ideal for swimming. This ensures your headphones can withstand complete submersion. The waterproof rating directly impacts durability, especially in chlorinated or saltwater environments.
Maintaining Your Water-Resistant Headphones for Longevity
Finding your perfect waterproof headphones is just the beginning of your aquatic audio journey. Whether you’ve chosen the versatile Shokz OpenSwim Pro bone conduction model or the budget-friendly JBL Endurance Dive these devices represent a worthwhile investment in your swimming experience.
To protect that investment rinse your headphones with fresh water after each swim especially if you’re using them in chlorinated pools or salt water. Allow them to dry completely before charging and store them in a protective case when not in use.
Remember that even the best waterproof headphones have limitations. Adhere to the manufacturer’s depth and time recommendations to prevent damage. With proper care your swimming headphones will enhance your underwater workouts for years to come letting you enjoy your favorite music while you perfect your stroke.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best waterproof headphones for swimming?
The best waterproof headphones for swimming include the Shokz OpenSwim Pro for bone conduction, Sony Walkman NW-WS413 for built-in MP3 players, H2O Audio Tri for serious swimmers, JBL Endurance Dive for budget options, Underwater Audio Swimbuds Sport for customizable fit, FINIS Duo for sound clarity, and Zygo Solo for real-time coaching. Your choice depends on personal preferences regarding fit, sound quality, and features.
What does the IP rating mean for waterproof headphones?
IP (Ingress Protection) ratings indicate water and dust resistance levels. For swimming headphones, look for IPX7 or higher. IPX7 means the device can withstand immersion in 1 meter of water for 30 minutes, while IPX8 provides even greater protection, often allowing for deeper submersion for longer periods. The higher the rating, the better protection your headphones have against water damage.
What’s the difference between bone conduction and in-ear headphones for swimming?
Bone conduction headphones transmit sound through your cheekbones, keeping ear canals open for situational awareness and comfort. In-ear headphones deliver sound directly into the ear canal, offering superior sound quality when properly sealed but requiring a tight fit to prevent water entry. Bone conduction models like Shokz OpenSwim Pro are ideal for safety-conscious swimmers, while in-ear options like Sony Walkman provide immersive audio.
How much storage do I need in waterproof headphones?
Storage needs depend on your listening habits. Entry-level models like JBL Endurance Dive offer 1GB (approximately 200 songs), while premium options like Shokz OpenSwim Pro provide 32GB. Consider your typical swim duration and music preferences—4GB (about 900 songs) is sufficient for most swimmers. If you regularly listen to audiobooks or podcasts, which require more space, opt for models with larger storage capacity.
Can I use Bluetooth headphones while swimming?
Standard Bluetooth doesn’t work underwater as signals can’t penetrate water beyond a few inches. Most swimming headphones use built-in MP3 storage instead of Bluetooth connectivity. However, some advanced models like the Zygo Solo use FM radio transmission technology to deliver audio underwater. If you want Bluetooth functionality, look for hybrid models like H2O Audio Tri that offer both onboard storage and Bluetooth for land use.
How do I ensure my waterproof headphones fit properly?
For in-ear models, select the correct earbud tip size from multiple options provided (like with Underwater Audio Swimbuds Sport) to create a watertight seal. For bone conduction headphones, look for non-slip bands that remain secure during vigorous movement. Test the fit by shaking your head in different directions before swimming. Some models offer adjustable bands while others, like the Shokz OpenSwim Pro, have fixed bands designed for stability.
How long do waterproof headphones typically last?
With proper care, quality waterproof headphones can last 2-4 years. Durability depends on the IP rating, materials used, and maintenance. Models like Underwater Audio Swimbuds Sport use corrosion-resistant materials to withstand chlorine and salt water exposure. Rinse headphones with fresh water after each swim, dry thoroughly, and store in a ventilated case to extend lifespan. Premium models generally offer better durability for frequent swimmers.
Are waterproof headphones suitable for open water swimming?
Yes, but choose models specifically designed for open water conditions. Look for headphones with bone conduction technology like FINIS Duo or Zygo Solo that maintain situational awareness—critical for safety in open water. Ensure they have a secure fit to withstand waves and currents. Models with higher waterproof ratings (IPX8) and corrosion resistance to salt water are ideal for ocean swimming.
