When it comes to working out, the right music can make all the difference—and the right earbuds can take your training to the next level. Whether you’re running outdoors, lifting weights, or crushing a HIIT session, quality earbuds can help keep you motivated, focused, and in the zone. But not all earbuds are created equal. Workout earbuds need to be sweat-resistant, secure in your ears during movement, and capable of delivering crisp, energizing sound without distractions. A poor fit or weak sound quality can quickly turn your playlist into a frustration instead of fuel.

The best workout earbuds strike a balance between comfort, durability, and performance. Look for a secure fit that stays put during high-intensity movement, preferably with customizable ear tips or hooks. Water and sweat resistance (with at least an IPX4 rating) is essential to keep your earbuds safe during intense sessions. Long battery life ensures you don’t run out of music mid-workout, while quick-charge features can be a lifesaver for last-minute gym trips. Bonus features like active noise cancellation can help you stay focused in a noisy environment, while transparency mode keeps you aware of your surroundings during outdoor runs. Investing in the right pair doesn’t just improve your listening experience—it can elevate your entire workout.

Our pick:

Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds (On sale at Amazon)

• Powerbeats Pro 2 is the most advanced headphone we’ve ever made, with secure-fit earhooks that stay locked in as you train. With over 1,500 hours of athlete testing to help ensure a secure, comfortable fit for any ear shape and intensity level.
• For absolute workout focus, we added the best-performing Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) we’ve ever developed, plus Transparency mode to let you hear the world around you, ensuring the best listening experience wherever you train.
• Heart Rate Monitoring sensors pulse over 100 times per second to measure your pulse in real time. And Powerbeats Pro 2 is sweat and water resistant with an IPX4 rating, so they’re tough enough to handle training in rain, snow and heat.
• Powered by the Apple H2 chip for extraordinary efficiency, Powerbeats Pro 2 delivers up to 45 hours of battery life with the charging case. The case is 33% smaller than its predecessor and is our first ever to feature wireless Qi charging.
• Compatible with Apple (one-touch pairing, automatic switching, Audio Sharing, hands-free Siri, Find My) and Android (the Beats App unlocks one-touch pairing, Heart Rate Monitoring, customizable controls, battery status widgets, and Locate My Beats).
• Adaptive EQ uses advanced microphones to measure what you’re hearing, then adjusts the frequencies of your music to you. Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking delivers immersive sound, with clear highs, rich mid-range tones and powerful bass.
• Take calls, FaceTime with Spatial Audio and activate Siri with industry-leading Class 1 Bluetooth connectivity. Each earbud has advanced microphones that have been updated to ensure exceptional call quality.