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10 Best Running Earbuds 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#3

SHOKZ New OpenFit 2+ Open-Ear Headphones, Dolby Audio Enabled, Comfortable Earbuds with Soft Ear Hooks, 48H Playtime, IP55 Water-Resistant, USB-C Fast Charging, Wireless Charging, Carrying Bag, Grey

Rating
8.2
Fit and Comfort
Sound Quality
Battery Life

Most important from
3290 reviews

Fit and Comfort
Wearing them is effortless—so comfortable and secure that you can forget they’re on all day, even while wearing glasses or hats.
Sound Quality
The bass response delivers genuine punch rarely heard in open-ear designs, making these earbuds feel like a personal Bluetooth speaker with real depth.
Battery Life
An impressive 11-hour battery life per charge keeps the music going through long workouts without needing frequent recharging.
Connectivity
Multipoint connectivity is a game changer, allowing seamless switching between devices like phone and TV without hassle.

The SHOKZ New OpenFit 2+ earbuds use an open-ear design, making them a good choice if you want to stay aware of your surroundings during runs or workouts. They’re very lightweight (only 9.4g) and have soft silicone ear hooks, which help keep them comfortable and secure even when you're moving or sweating. With an IP55 rating, they resist water and sweat well, so they can handle rain or intense exercise without issues.

When it comes to sound, these earbuds stand out by using Dolby Audio and Shokz’s DualBoost technology, which delivers clear highs and decent bass for an open-ear style. However, because they don’t fully cover or seal the ear, the bass won’t be as strong as in traditional in-ear earbuds. The battery life is impressive — 11 hours of continuous use on a single charge and up to 48 hours when combined with the wireless charging case. Quick charging is also handy, giving 2 hours of playback with just a 10-minute charge.

Connectivity is solid with Bluetooth 5.4, a decent range, and the ability to connect to two devices at once, which is convenient for switching between phone and laptop. Call quality benefits from multiple microphones that reduce background noise. These earbuds do not offer noise cancellation, so ambient sounds will always be audible, which is a safety plus for outdoor runners but might be distracting in noisy environments. They are well-suited for runners who prioritize comfort, situational awareness, and long battery life, but might not satisfy those looking for deep bass or full noise isolation.

Rating
8.2
Fit and Comfort
Sound Quality
Battery Life

Most important from
3290 reviews

Fit and Comfort
Wearing them is effortless—so comfortable and secure that you can forget they’re on all day, even while wearing glasses or hats.
Sound Quality
The bass response delivers genuine punch rarely heard in open-ear designs, making these earbuds feel like a personal Bluetooth speaker with real depth.
Battery Life
An impressive 11-hour battery life per charge keeps the music going through long workouts without needing frequent recharging.
Connectivity
Multipoint connectivity is a game changer, allowing seamless switching between devices like phone and TV without hassle.

Buying Guide for the Best Running Earbuds

Choosing the right running earbuds can significantly enhance your workout experience. The right pair will stay secure, provide excellent sound quality, and be comfortable for long periods. When selecting running earbuds, consider factors such as fit, sound quality, battery life, water resistance, and connectivity. Understanding these key specifications will help you make an informed decision that best suits your needs and preferences.
Fit and ComfortFit and comfort are crucial for running earbuds because they need to stay securely in place during your workout. Earbuds typically come with different sizes of ear tips and wings to ensure a snug fit. Some models are designed to hook over the ear for added security. If you have smaller or larger ears, look for models that offer a variety of sizes. The right fit will prevent the earbuds from falling out and ensure they are comfortable to wear for extended periods.
Sound QualitySound quality is important for an enjoyable listening experience. Running earbuds should provide clear and balanced sound with good bass response to keep you motivated. Some earbuds offer noise isolation or active noise cancellation to block out external noise, which can be beneficial if you run in noisy environments. However, if you run outdoors, you might prefer earbuds that allow some ambient sound for safety reasons. Choose sound quality based on your preference for music and the environment in which you run.
Battery LifeBattery life determines how long you can use your earbuds before needing to recharge them. For running earbuds, a battery life of at least 5-8 hours is generally sufficient for most workouts. Some models come with a charging case that provides additional charges, extending the total battery life. If you run long distances or use your earbuds throughout the day, look for models with longer battery life or quick charging features.
Water and Sweat ResistanceWater and sweat resistance are essential for running earbuds, as they will be exposed to sweat and possibly rain. Look for earbuds with an IPX rating, which indicates their level of water resistance. An IPX4 rating means the earbuds are sweat-resistant, while an IPX7 rating means they can be submerged in water up to a certain depth. Choose the level of water resistance based on your running conditions and how much you sweat.
ConnectivityConnectivity refers to how the earbuds connect to your device. Most running earbuds use Bluetooth for wireless connectivity, which provides freedom of movement without tangled wires. Look for Bluetooth 5.0 or higher for a more stable connection and better range. Some models also offer features like multipoint pairing, which allows you to connect to multiple devices simultaneously. Ensure the earbuds are compatible with your device and provide a reliable connection during your runs.

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