6 Best Headphones for Cycling Reviewed 2021

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Wearing headphones while cycling, to some, poses grave danger as this inhibits your awareness of your surroundings – not the least of which include oncoming traffic. Others argue that music helps motivate cyclists to work harder and put more focus on their performance.

If you’re of the same opinion as the latter group, you may be in for a long search because the market today is swamped with a great many varieties of headphones to choose from.

But, out of the hundreds to filter through, we’ve made it easier for you by choosing only six out of the best out there. Hopefully you’ll find the one fit for your needs in this selection.

TLDR – Top Pick

Our top pick for the best headphones for cycling is the AfterShokz Aeropex Open-Ear Headphones. 

Aftershokz Aeropex (Rebranded as Shokz OpenRun) - Open-Ear Bluetooth Bone Conduction Sport Headphones - Sweat Resistant Wireless Earphones for Workouts and Running - Built-in Mic - with Sport Belt
Aftershokz Aeropex (Rebranded as Shokz OpenRun) - Open-Ear Bluetooth Bone Conduction Sport Headphones - Sweat Resistant Wireless Earphones for Workouts and Running - Built-in Mic - with Sport Belt

    Last update on 2024-03-28 at 09:25 / Commission Earned / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

    What to Consider Before Buying a Cycling Headphone

    Cyclists have different needs for headphones when cycling, so they will need to look at different factors when considering their purchase.

    Let’s run through the most pertinent ones in the section below.

    Fit, Convenience, and Comfort

    The first aspect to consider is secure fit – and with that comes getting convenience and comfort. Whatever kind of headphones you have on, the goal is to forget you’re wearing any once you start using them so you can focus on your training or riding experience completely.

    Wireless headphones are definitely the most ideal option for on-the-go cyclists, as wired headphones can restrict movement and pose potential risks that don’t bear thinking about. But they’d have to be secure enough to stay firmly in place, even during bumpy rides. 

    A way to remedy this is choosing earbuds with ear hooks, multiple ear tips that fit snugly into your ear canal, or those that secure behind the neck.

    They should also guarantee a good fit, even with a bike helmet on to ensure optimal comfort.

    High-Quality Sound 

    Just as important as comfort and fit, like any audio-related device, should be sound quality. 

    Luckily, headphones these days don’t have to be super expensive to produce impressive balance with excellent bass to boot. If you come upon a headphone with an app which will allow you to personalize your settings, that would be a bonus you can’t take for granted.

    Ambient Noise Awareness

    Regardless of the kind of cyclist you are, we are of the opinion that you must absolutely always be able to hear what’s going on around you as you ride, and fit really affects how much ambient noise you can hear while wearing it. 

    Smaller earbuds can fit into the deeper part of the ear canal, blocking out ambient noise. On the other hand, there are models designed to sit just outside your ear canal and attach to hooks so they stay in place, allowing you to indulge in the music and hear ambient noise as well.

    Bone Conduction

    Technology really has come a long way, and fortunately for cyclists, it has not neglected our industry. How so? Because science has invented bone conduction, which has truly put a spin into how audio is conducted.

    Instead of effectively closing you off to the rest of the world by fitting earbuds into your ear canal, headphones with bone conduction will sit in front of, behind, or above your ear, and transmit audio waves through your bone instead of your eardrum.

    In effect, when you wear these, you free your ear canals from chafing, soreness, and the discomfort that comes from sweat without compromising sound transmission and, most importantly, your safety.

    Battery Life & Durability

    Using wireless technology will naturally require batteries as a power source. Some earbuds will charge through their pods or USB charging. 

    Over-the-ear headphones are typically the longer-lasting ones in terms of battery life, for the sole reason that they can accommodate larger batteries that last longer hours. 

    The models we’ve featured in this guide, as you’ll soon find out, don’t lack for battery life. Just be sure to charge them before you’re set to go on a ride, and you’ll have no issues at all.

    Varied Options for Connectivity

    Bluetooth technology dominates wireless headphone set ups, and this shouldn’t be a problem as most devices we use these days have bluetooth capabilities. Although bluetooth does drain the battery, that’s already factored into the battery life.

    Bluetooth offers many advantages, including reliability, reasonable range, universal compatibility, and it can offer voice commands and phone answering capabilities, which can be a ton of help, especially during emergencies.

    Moisture-Resistance

    Regardless of the intensity of your rides, having a headphone that can withstand the damaging effects of moisture – whether it be coming from your sweat or the pouring rain, will factor into how long the headphones’ functionality remains intact.

    Moisture-resistance is measured through the Ingress Protection (IP) scale, which also measures dust (or other solids) resistance. All Ingress Protection ratings will start with the letters “IP”, followed by:

    • A number between a scale of 0-6, representing resistance from dust or other solids.
    • A second number between a scale of 0-8, representing resistance from water or other liquids.

    If IP is followed by a letter “X”, that means the item is not resistant to dust at all. The higher end of the scale equates to more resistance, so if your headphone has an IP rating of IP57, that pretty much means it’s an awesome and durable item. 

    Warranty Period

    Headphones will typically guarantee warranty protection for one or two years. But this may depend on the price range of the product you prefer and its manufacturer. Anyhow, if you purchase a quality product, warranty would almost always never have to come up.

    6 Best Headphones for Cycling Reviewed

    Let’s run through our favorite headphones we highly recommend for cyclists today. 

    Please note the features we highlight for each of these products and match them according to your personal needs and the consideration we discussed in our guide above so you can make the wisest purchase. 

    1. Vidonn F1 Wireless Headset with Mic

    Key Features

    • Bone conduction technology
    • 6-hr playtime lithium battery
    • Bluetooth V5.0 in ABS and titanium material
    • Ergonomic and sweatproof with IP55 rating
    • 12 months warranty

    The first on the list is Vidonn’s F1 Open Ear Wireless Headset, manufactured with bone conduction technology so you can minimize risks and stay alert on your rides without compromising sound quality.

    This durable and ergonomic design is made of ABS and titanium material, ensuring its lightweight and long-lasting capability. Get the most comfort while riding with this pair through its sweat (and rain) proof feature, certified with an IP55 rating.

    The bluetooth v5.0 technology installed in these headphones allows instant pairing with your device, providing reliable connection within 33ft of space with no barriers.

    It only takes two hours to charge the 180mah lithium battery built into this set, but you can already enjoy 10 days of idle time and 6 hours of playtime for your indoor and outdoor activities.

    The 12-month warranty that comes with this product guarantees Vidonn believes in their product and will be happy to assist you anytime you encounter issues with its use.

    Pros

    • Bluetooth enables hands-free calling with no interference
    • Mic works efficiently for calls
    • Mid and high sounds are crisp and clear
    • Well-placed controls 

    Cons

    • Bass may not be as impressive
    • Headband has fixed length, please get correct measurements of the user before purchasing

    2. AfterShokz AS600BK Titanium Wireless Headphones

    Key Features

    • Bone conduction technology
    • 6-hr playtime CR2 battery
    • Bluetooth V4.1
    • Durable design with IP55 rating
    • Limited 2-year warranty

    This next one on the list is England Athletics’ official headphone – Aftershokz. 

    Today, we’re going to look at a specific model, the AS600BK Open Ear Wireless Headset, manufactured with bone conduction technology, where music gets delivered through your cheekbones so you’re completely aware of ambient sounds during your rides.

    Built to last, the titanium headband is light and flexible, providing optimal comfort especially for long-distance rides. This, paired with a CR2 battery that lasts up to 6 hours of playback, will provide you the companionship that comes with continuous music and the occasional calls.

    The premium pitch technology built into these headsets ensure the quality of the music you listen to has a wide dynamic range and rich bass, while reducing ambient noise to an acceptable level.

    This set also employs bluetooth technology capable of multi-point pairing with iOS and android smartphones, tablets, computers, and laptops. 

    These headphones also guarantee resistance to sweat and moisture, as well as dust, with a certified IP55 rating, withstanding even the most strenuous running, cycling, and other sports or training activities. 

    It also has multifunction buttons that will allow you to play, pause, skip, activate voice assistant, answer, and end calls.

    Pros

    • Compatible with glasses and helmet straps
    • Bluetooth connection works seamlessly with other devices
    • Can use to navigate GPS through voice directions
    • Excellent battery life

    Cons

    • Mic can’t intercept ambient noise during calls
    • Headband has fixed length, please get correct measurements of the user before purchasing
    Sale
    Aftershokz Titanium Open Ear Wireless Bone Conduction Headphones (Black)
    Aftershokz Titanium Open Ear Wireless Bone Conduction Headphones (Black)

      Last update on 2024-03-28 at 03:05 / Commission Earned / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

      3. Anker SoundCore Spirit Pro Wireless Headphones

      Key Features

      • Hi-Fi sound with dual EQ modes
      • 10-hr playtime CR2 battery
      • Bluetooth V5.0
      • Customized fit with IP55 rating
      • 18 months warranty

      Anker Soundcore’s Spirit Pro wireless headset is another one of our favorites, as its ergonomic design composed of ultra-soft tips and earwings transmit optimal sound through Qualcomm aptX technology with high-fidelity audio that preserves sound data during transmission. 

      Dual-EQ modes will allow you to choose between well-balanced sound quality or full-bass so you can intensify your workouts without disruption.

      The specially designed submarine-inspired Sweat Guard technology with its Nano coating, an impermeable hydro-seal, offers extreme waterproof protection, with such potent anti-corrosive properties that a port cover for charging has become unnecessary.

      Get 10 hours of playtime from a single charge along with ear tips and ear wings that come in 3 sizes for optimal fit, a cable and shirt clip, micro USB cable for charging, and Anker’s assurance of quality – their 18-month warranty, with every purchase.

      Pros

      • Clear mid and high tones with excellent bass even in balanced mode
      • Comfortable and secure
      • Seamless connectivity with very minimal latency
      • Excellent customer support

      Cons

      • Charging cable may be too short 
      • Does not include an adapter
      • Snug fit may block out more ambient noise than is ideal when cycling, turn volume to low 
      Soundcore Wireless Headphones Anker Soundcore Spirit Pro, Dual Eq, 10 Hour Playtime, Ip68, Sweatguard Technology, Hi-fi Sound, Built-in Mic, Bluetooth Headphones, Sports, Workout, Gym, 1 pounds
      Soundcore Wireless Headphones Anker Soundcore Spirit Pro, Dual Eq, 10 Hour Playtime, Ip68, Sweatguard Technology, Hi-fi Sound, Built-in Mic, Bluetooth Headphones, Sports, Workout, Gym, 1 pounds

        Last update on 2024-03-28 at 03:05 / Commission Earned / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

        4. Bose SoundSport Wireless In-Ear Headphones

        Key Features

        • In-ear StayHear + Sport tips
        • 6-hr playtime lithium-ion battery
        • Bluetooth V4.2 and NFC pairing
        • Connect to find it with Tile
        • 12 months warranty

        Now this one is from an industry leader – Bose, with their SoundSport Wireless headphones engineered for optimal performance delivered through StayHear+ Sport tips and built to withstand the most rigorous sport activities and workout sessions. 

        You’ll never have to worry about your music getting interrupted by loosely fitting earpieces or highly unstable sound quality.

        Connect to any of your devices seamlessly through Bluetooth 4.2 or NFC pairing, and use it during your rides quickly through easy access to the inline mic and volume, play and skip controls, along with the ability to answer calls on the go!

        Sweat and weather-resistance capability is certified with an IPX4 rating which further ensures the durability of this pair against wear and tear.

        An added feature built-in is Bose Connect which will let you personalize your settings, so you can amp up your training session quickly and with ease, and lets you find your headphones through the “Find with Tile” software. 

        Just download it off Google play or the Apple store, and you’ll never go on your rides without these headphones again.

        Charging takes only two hours but you can already enjoy 6 hours of playtime. Just make sure to follow the instructions in the user guide that comes with your package to take full advantage of this device completely.

        Pros

        • Completely secure when worn
        • Withstands extreme sweat and moisture
        • Top-notch audio quality
        • Pairing is seamless

        Cons

        • May weigh more than expected, check specs
        • May be a bit bulky
        Sale
        Bose SoundSport, Wireless Earbuds, (Sweatproof Bluetooth Headphones for Running and Sports), Black
        Bose SoundSport, Wireless Earbuds, (Sweatproof Bluetooth Headphones for Running and Sports), Black

          Last update on 2024-03-28 at 02:45 / Commission Earned / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

          5. Somora Open-Ear Wireless Sports Headset

          Key Features

          • Bone conduction technology
          • 5-hr playtime lithium battery
          • Bluetooth V5.0 pairing
          • Certified IP55 rating
          • 12 months warranty

          We want to recommend another quality pair of headphones, this time from Somora. It employs Bone Conduction technology and works by transmitting vibrations through the cheekbones to your cochleas so you can avoid getting your ears damaged and become aware of ambient noise while you ride. 

          The open-ear design will help you stay alert while cycling or running without compromising sound quality, and the ergonomic design optimizes comfort and secures it in place even through extremely rigorous activities.

          Pair seamlessly with all your devices through the latest bluetooth v5.0 technology (with 33ft no-barrier range limit) and free yourself from cumbersome electronic cords that may put you at risk while riding.

          Made with ABS and titanium material, this headset is both durable and light, and the IP55 rating of this pair can resist light rain and sweat, making it ideal for outdoor activities like running, jogging, cycling, and many more.

          While it takes 2 hours to fully charge, you’ll get to enjoy 10 days of idle time and 5 hours of playtime with this pair of headphones for uninterrupted work out and training sessions. 

          What’s more, Sonora has a 60-day free return policy and 12 months warranty, so you know purchasing this model is absolutely risk-free.

          Pros

          • Superb sound quality even for calls
          • Seamless bluetooth syncing with one or two devices
          • Super comfortable and secure
          • Excellent value for money

          Cons

          • Headband length is fixed, please check dimensions
          • Charging cable may be too short
          Bone Conduction Headphones Bluetooth 5.0 Open-Ear Wireless Sports Headsets w/Mic for Jogging Running Driving Cycling, Lightweight-1.2 oz
          Bone Conduction Headphones Bluetooth 5.0 Open-Ear Wireless Sports Headsets w/Mic for Jogging Running Driving Cycling, Lightweight-1.2 oz

          Last update on 2024-03-28 at 09:25 / Commission Earned / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

          6. AfterShokz Aeropex Open-Ear Headphones 

          Key Features

          • Bone conduction technology
          • 8-hr playtime lithium Polymer battery
          • Bluetooth V5.0 pairing
          • Certified IP67 rating
          • 24 months warranty

          Yet another one from Aftershokz, this pair is called the Aeropex open-ear bone conduction headphones, with a patented bone conduction technology that delivers music through the cheekbones, not the ear canal, so you free your ears from all encumbrances when riding.

          This device has been re-engineered to produce high-quality audio, louder volume, 50% less sound leakage, and wide dynamic stereo sound with PremiumPitch 2.0+.

          Still using bluetooth V5.0, you can pair this with your devices and enjoy 8 continuous hours of playtime even with only 2 hours of charging time.

          It’s IP67 rating is one of the best we’ve seen, making it ultra resistant to sweat and water so you can focus on your training without needing to worry about your device getting damaged by moisture from rain or perspiration.

          Plus, it weighs less than an ounce so all-day use won’t be an issue, as it won’t affect comfort. You may even forget you’re wearing it and get you all centered and focused on performance!

          Pros

          • Excellent battery life
          • Connects to multiple devices at once
          • Two magnetic charging ports included 
          • Secure and comfortable

          Cons

          • Bass quality may not be sufficient
          • May be a bit expensive
          Aftershokz Aeropex (Rebranded as Shokz OpenRun) - Open-Ear Bluetooth Bone Conduction Sport Headphones - Sweat Resistant Wireless Earphones for Workouts and Running - Built-in Mic - with Sport Belt
          Aftershokz Aeropex (Rebranded as Shokz OpenRun) - Open-Ear Bluetooth Bone Conduction Sport Headphones - Sweat Resistant Wireless Earphones for Workouts and Running - Built-in Mic - with Sport Belt

            Last update on 2024-03-28 at 09:25 / Commission Earned / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

            Which Is Best?

            Cyclists are divided in their opinions as to the safety of wearing headphones while riding. But regardless of which opinion you share, just make sure that when you do wear them, you feel confidently aware of the traffic and dangers around you.

            If it’s your first time riding with headphones on, try starting out with lower volumes and wearing just one earbud. 

            It’s also very important to note that some states in the US (like Florida) penalize cyclists who ride their bikes with headphones on. Be sure to find out what your State laws say regarding this issue so you don’t get penalties that could easily have been avoided.

            For us, though, we highly recommend AfterShokz Aeropex Open-Ear Headphones among every product in this list. The battery life of this device is impressive, as is its warranty period. 

            You can pair it with multiple devices all at once, too, so if you’re done with training on your bike you can use it on your phone and laptop or any other device without skipping a beat.

            Aftershokz Aeropex (Rebranded as Shokz OpenRun) - Open-Ear Bluetooth Bone Conduction Sport Headphones - Sweat Resistant Wireless Earphones for Workouts and Running - Built-in Mic - with Sport Belt
            Aftershokz Aeropex (Rebranded as Shokz OpenRun) - Open-Ear Bluetooth Bone Conduction Sport Headphones - Sweat Resistant Wireless Earphones for Workouts and Running - Built-in Mic - with Sport Belt

              Last update on 2024-03-28 at 09:25 / Commission Earned / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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              Author
              Hello, my names Perry and I've been a freelance writer for the past 5 years and a cycling enthusiastic since I can remember. I love the road, but my main passion is mountain biking.

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