10 Best Waterproof Headphones (With Certified IPX) in 2023

We’ve tested 192 headphones. Here are the best waterproof headphones with certified IPX6 or higher water protection.

These are perfect for water sports, showering, heavy sweating, and any situation where they get soaked.

Let’s dig in:

Note: These are not suitable for swimming. You can dip them in water, so they’re safe for kayaking, boating, etc. If you want to swim, see the best headphones for swimming and waterproof MP3s for swimming.

Quick Overview

What’s IPX? A higher IPX rating means better water protection.

IPX5 > IPX4, also in 2-digit IP, the second represents water: IP68 = IPX8, IP54 = IPX4. It’s explained here.

We evaluate based on 9 key factors (Sonic9Score).  The main criteria we looked at to pick the top waterproof wireless headphones are water protection and comfort & fit. Both are extremely important for activity near water. See how we test and score in our testing and ranking methodology.

Imagine listening to music in a shower, on your boating trip, or anywhere else with water without worry.

You have fully waterproof Bluetooth headphones that don’t mind water and play your favorite music even in “electronics-killing” environments.

Electronics and water don’t walk hand in hand. Most headphones aren’t waterproof and die if they get wet. The amount of AirPods that were ruined because of it could be counted in millions.

Thankfully, manufacturers caught wind of it and started making water-resistant headphones. However not all water resistance is equal.

Below, you’ll find the best waterproof wireless earbuds from reputable brands that are fully protected against water so you can submerge them.

Best Waterproof Headphones

1. Jaybird Vista 2

Jaybird Vista 2 are the best waterproof headphones we’ve tested. You can submerge them and cover them in dust. – Jaybird Vista 2 review.

Vista 2 have a much smoother and more balanced sound signature compared to the predecessor. They’re still punchy, just not bloated.

Earbuds retain superb stability from their first generation thanks to ear fins. Durability is even better, with a waterproof design sporting an IP68 rating and MIL-STD-810G standard on earbuds. Even the charging case has an IP54 rating this time around.

The Jaybird waterproof earbuds have a few extra features. Such as ambient sound mode and active noise cancellation. This time around, they even use SBC and AAC, covering Apple and Android users.

We noticed they do an okay job at blocking low-end rumble but struggle at higher frequencies. Still, the background noise cancellation will help reduce engine noises during commuting.

The Jaybird app is full of customization options for EQ and controls. Earbuds use physical buttons, which are more reassuring than touch controls.

If you want a pair of headphones with a stable fit and many features in waterproof housing, check out the Jaybird Vista 2.

Runner-Ups

2. Jabra Elite 7 Active

Jabra Elite 7 Active are great modern earbuds with waterproof housing without ear wings. Now, with better noise cancelation, more balanced sound, and Qi wireless charging.

Unlike the Jabra Elite Active 75t model, the new Elite 7 Active outputs a more balanced sound signature, making them a perfect choice for audio purists among athletes.

Thankfully, for everyone else, Jabra offers full EQ settings inside their app, giving you the option to adjust the sound signature based on your taste.

Furthermore, earbuds offer native active noise cancelation that works reasonably well. You can expect similar results from the ambient sound mode.

The battery life is long, with 8 hours per charge and another 22 hours inside the Qi wireless charging case.

If you don’t like the feeling of ear wings but still want stable, waterproof headphones, check out the Jabra elite 7 Active.

Best Waterproof JBL Headphones

3. JBL Reflect Mini NC

JBL Reflect Mini NC are the best waterproof JBL earbuds we’ve tested. These have an IPX7 rating, dynamic sound, and an app with many features to play with – JBL Reflect Mini NC review.

These are sports earbuds from JBL with a punchy and energetic sound that follows Harman curve response. The bass is slightly boosted, and you can bring it down in the app if that’s what you prefer.

Robust-looking earbuds sport an IPX7 rating, making them fully submersible. Ear fins come in 3 sizes and add extra stability during movement. They are comfortable and stable, but only for the first 2 hours. After they start rubbing the ears the wrong way, you need a pause.

With around 7 hours of battery when fully charged, they should last you an entire workout session or two. The charging case holds another two charges and supports fast and Qi wireless charging.

Reflect Mini NC also offer noise cancellation, although it doesn’t work that well. At least the app offers a good level of customization, from controls, assistants (Google Assistant), and EQ. More details in our review.

If you’re a fan of JBL headphones, and want waterproof earbuds, check the JBL Reflect Mini NC.

Related guides:

• Best workout earbuds
• Best workout headphones
• Best noise-cancelling earbuds

Best Over-Ear Waterproof Headphones

4. BackBeat FIT 6100

BackBeats FIT 6100 are the best full-sized waterproof headphones. Thanks to a strong clamping fit and IPX5 water resistance, they’re the go-to gym cans.

Technically, these are not fully waterproof. IPX5 is too low for full water submersion. But it’s the best you can get in over-ear headphones. You can still splash them and use them in torrential rain; just don’t dip them.

Now for sound, there are 3 EQ sound modes: Balanced, Bright, and Bass. The Balanced offers the most versatile experience while still retaining punchy bass.

Some users prefer to wear over-ear headphones during a workout. BackBeats FIT 6100 are waterproof headphones that can easily resist sweaty conditions or light splashes of water.

The perforated fabric headband ensures better breathability and prevents excessive sweating during sporting activity. There is actually a rubber cord inside that improves fit when you stretch the ear cups.

Activating a Sound Mix feature makes a perfect blend of your music and amplified surroundings. That’s useful when you decide to use them outside.

The headphone’s battery is quite solid, too, with 24 hours of listening time and fast-charging support.

If you’re looking for stable over-ear waterproof headphones for working out and running, take a look at BackBeat FIT 6100.

Best Open-Ear Waterproof Headphones

5. Shokz OpenRun Pro

If you prefer to leave your ears open, the Shokz OpenRun Pro are the best waterproof headphones for you. Listen to music without blocking your hearing.

Thanks to the new TurboPitch tech, the OpenRun Pro model (successor to the AfterShokz Aeropex) now boasts a stronger bass response.

That increases the perception of sound quality since bone conduction isn’t the best for bass-heavy music. Otherwise, the mids and treble are in line with the Aeropex.

Even the rest is pretty similar to the predecessor, from the overall shape and comfort. Although, it’s worth pointing out that due to the punchier bass, the transducers tend to produce tickling vibrations.

Battery life has increased up to 10 hours on a single charge. Sadly, the proprietary charging port stays the same.

For waterproof bone conduction headphones , check the Shokz OpenRun Pro.

Many people are turning to bone conduction technology due to its convenient open design. Check out more bone-conducting headphones.

Best Waterproof Headphones under $50

6. Anker Soundcore Life A1

Of all the headphones we tested, Anker Soundcore Life A1 are the best budget waterproof headphones. Perfect for everyday and sports use – Anker Soundcore Life A1 review.

For the price, you get a versatile sound that’s slightly bass-forward but not by much. Thanks to the balanced midrange, you can still enjoy a large variety of music genres.

Using gestures with physical buttons, you can toggle between 3 different EQ presets. One adds the bass, whereas the other lowers it and boosts vocal clarity.

Earbuds sit flush and don’t produce much wind noise. Different sizes of ear wings help them to stay in place, along with their ergonomic design. No matter how small ears you have.

Soundcore Life A1 are very comfortable for long periods and are among the best workout headphones for the price. Their battery life can last up to 8 hours on a single charge.

For budget waterproof headphones, Anker Soundcore Life A1 are the top choice.

More related guides:

• Best wireless earbuds under $50
• Best wireless earbuds under $30
• Most durable earbuds

Best Cheap Waterproof Headphones

7. TOZO T10

TOZO T10 are the best cheap wireless waterproof earbuds we’ve tested. With a high IP68 waterproof rating, excellent comfort, and wireless charging, these offer an amazing bang for the buck – TOZO T10 review.

Man, I love these. For their competitive price, the audio quality is surprisingly natural and fun to listen to. While the T10 lack in detail, they sound way better than most earbuds under $30.

The design is pretty inconspicuous, with smooth edges and matte black color. Earbuds are tiny and should fit all ear sizes. But they’re not suitable for sports because they slip out when you move. Peter constantly had to readjust the fit during testing.

On the other hand, the case is rather bulky and hard to put in a pocket without creating a bulge. Thankfully, TOZO includes a strap to tie the case onto your backpack.

Durability is most impressive. Both the earbuds and the case are rated for IP68. On top of that, the case uses USB-C and Qi wireless charging. More details in our review.

TOZO T10s are an easy choice for budget-conscious users who are looking for “premiumish” performance.

Runner-Ups: Other Models Worth Considering

8. Best Waterproof Headphones with Ear Hooks: Treblab X3 Pro

9. Affordable Runner-Ups: Jabra Elite Active 75t

10. Runner-Up Water-Resistant Over-Ear Headphones: Treblab Z7 Pro

How We Tested

We actually test waterproofness. Contrary to many other websites that just claim it. To test the water protection, we use multiple techniques depending on the level of protection we want to test.

We sprinkle them with a water bottle (water-resistant and sweat-proof headphones).

We “wash” them under a tap.

We dump lots of water on them.

We submerge them in water and time it (IPX7+).

We found the certified IPX ratings to be generally true.

Apart from testing water protection, we also test them on 9 key points. See our scoring methodology for all the details. It’s too long for this article.

All of this helps us compare and pick the best-performing earbuds that we can confidently recommend. Hopefully, you appreciate it.

If you’re curious about our process, also see our testing methodology.

How did we choose the models?

As mentioned above, we focused on 2 decision points important for sporty headphones: water protection and comfort & fit.

The first one is obvious. We compared them by their IPX ratings and our experience during testing.

The second is comfort and stability of the fit, especially during movement and sweating.

Sweat often ruins the fit of otherwise stable headphones.

Which makes them unsuitable for the needs of this guide.

Together with the categories mentioned above, we also looked at their overall performance in other categories. Sound quality, reliability, and battery life being more important. Then we ranked them for different use cases, design types, and prices: cheaper towards the bottom.

Headphones We Considered that Didn’t Make the List

• Jlab Audio Jbuds Air: Cheap waterproof earbuds, used to be a top recommendation, now outdated.
• Jaybird X4: Older wireless earbuds that have been replaced by the Jaybird Vista 2.
• Anker Soundcore Liberty Neo: Fully waterproof, solid performance, but the top-recommended are better.

What Makes Wireless Headphones Waterproof?

Waterproof earbuds use a hydrophobic coating to protect against water. There are different kinds from different brands (like Liquipel, NanoProof, nanoCare, etc), though they generally do the same job.

How do you find the right product?

Look for IPX rating.

The higher number the better. It ranges from 1 to 9. The lower protection is only good for sweat, while higher ones gradually become fully waterproof. See full IPX explanation here.

What’s the Difference Between Waterproof and Water-Resistant?

Waterproof earbuds have higher water resistance.

Waterproof models have minimum IPX7 rating. You can take IPX7 headphones in a shower, wash them under a tap and they can survive submersion for 30 minutes up to 1 meter deep (3ft). Models with a higher IPX are even more durable.

Water-resistant models have up to IPX6 rating. And can’t be submerged in water.

Here’s more about the difference between waterproof vs water-resistant headphones.

General ranges:

• IPX1 – IPX4 = sweatproof
• IPX4 – IPX6 = water-resistant
• IPX7 – IPX9 = waterproof

See further explanation of the IPX rating here.

Why You Can’t Swim with Waterproof Bluetooth Headphones

You can use waterproof Bluetooth headphones for swimming, BUT…

You’ll only be able to listen to music above the water surface and close to your Bluetooth music device (30ft / 10m).

Because Bluetooth doesn’t work underwater, it will cut the signal every time you submerge your head. This makes them unsuitable for any serious swimming or diving.

For swimming laps, see the best swimming headphones (these are mostly wired earbuds) together with waterproof MP3 players.

Anoter point I want to make:

Water-resistant headphones are not suitable for water sports.

Their water protection isn’t high enough.

Can I swim in a pool?

If you want to swim in a pool and keep your head above water, you can it. Just make sure to keep your phone nearby, so it’s in Bluetooth range (around 30ft/10m).

If you can live with that, then wireless Blutooth earbuds can be used for swimming.

Pay Attention to Different IPX Waterproof Ratings

You already know a higher rating is better. And below is the infographic that explains what all ratings mean.

IPX vs. IP

The IPX rating (ingress protection) is the equivalent to IP rating, with the exception that IPX only shows water protection, while IP also shows dust and small particles protection.

Example: IP68

• The first one represents the level of protection from dust from 0-6
• The second one represents protection from water on a 0-8 scale (sometimes 9)

It’s important to know that while there are IPX8 waterproof Bluetooth earbuds on the market, none of them work underwater.

To learn more about it and what international standards use it, read the IP rating page.

How Much You Should Spend on Waterproof Wireless Earbuds?

Generally, the more you spend, the better earbuds you can get.

There are a couple of price ranges:

• Under $50 are the budget waterproof headphones that come with basic features and sound
• $50 – $100 are the value for money headphones which often sound good and even have some extra features (what most people buy)
• $100 – $200+ are the best waterproof earphones with the latest technology and high sound quality.

No matter what price point you choose, it should have no impact on water protection. It’s cheap to make waterproof headphones and even budget models come with high IPX certification.

What Waterproof Headphones are Right for You?

It depends on your needs and limitations.

Your budget: How much do you want to spend?

Where do you plan to use them: If you need them for kayaking for hours on a lake, then it’s better to get a top model. If you just want to listen to audio when you shower, a cheaper pair is fine.

Personal preference: Do you have a preference for brands, design or a specific features? What type of sound signature do you like? There are dozens of questions to ask yourself here. Find all the answers in our in-depth reviews.

When to Use Waterproof Bluetooth Headphones

The best use is somewhere they get wet or fall in the water.

For example, you can use waterproof Bluetooth earphones for activities where you’re afraid to use your regular sports headphones, such as:

• kayaking, boating
• paddleboarding
• jet-skiing
• showering
• on-surface swimming
• chilling on an inflatable bed

You can use them for any activity near the water where they’ll likely get wet. Keep in mind, for Bluetooth to work, the headphones have to be above water.

Also, the average Bluetooth range is about 30ft (10m), so keep your music device close to hold the connection.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

That’s it. I often see innacurate and missleading information on this topic, so I hope you cleared some questions and liked our guide on waterproof headphones.

Here’s a reminder:

If you have any questions, leave us a comment.