Top 6 Best Waterproof Headphones for Swimming In 2023 Reviews

Welcome to the future. With the introduction of swim-ready headphones, the days of swimming with just your thoughts for company are long gone.

While choosing the perfect set of everyday headphones is a relatively simple task, finding the best waterproof headphones for swimming requires a little more finesse. There are a bunch of factors to consider when choosing the most suitable pair for your unique set of circumstances.

One thing to take note of is that the headphones listed here are not only beneficial to swimmers, but can also be used for any sport.

So let’s dive straight in and find the perfect waterproof headphones for your next swim…

Top 6 Best Waterproof Headphones for Swimming Available In 2023 Reviews

1 Sony NWWS413LM Wearable Sports MP3 Player – Most Durable Waterproof Headphones for Swimming

First up, we have Sony’s all-in-one MP3 neckband offering – the unfortunately named NWWS413LM. But that’s the only unfortunate thing about this great set of waterproof headphones.

They are rated for use in both salt and fresh water and are fully dust and sweat-proof. This makes them perfect for any kind of workout or sports activity in any kind of environment. After your swim, you can hit the trial since these are some of the best waterproof headphones for running as well.

A great, ergonomic design…

You are ensured long-lasting comfort that will stay perfectly in place thanks to the secure, behind-the-ear design. These headphones are guaranteed to never fall out, even during the most soul-destroying swim sessions. Likewise, the neckband adds comfort and stability when wearing them.

Load your music library…

Adding music to the built-in MP3 player is as simple as can be. All you have to do is drag and drop files from iTunes on Mac or Windows and enjoy. Multi-format playback also allows you to play MP3, WMA, AAC, or L-PCM music files. The Sony NWWS413LM may be pretty compact, but with 4GB storage, it can hold hours of your favorite music or podcasts.

Batter and controls…

The battery assembly is also a huge plus. The included USB dock takes just three minutes to charge up a full hour of juice, and with a battery life of up to 12 hours on a full charge, all bases are covered.

Controls are well-thought-out and feel intuitive to use. Another huge plus for one of the best swimmers headphones on the market.

2 FINIS Duo Underwater MP3 Player – Best Bone Conducting Waterproof Headphones for Swimming

It may seem a little unnerving to drop your hard-earned cash on a set of headphones that don’t actually have any ear tips. Well, welcome to the world of bone-conducting headphones. One of the newest advancements in the headphone market, these transmit sound by vibrating the wearer’s cheekbone (we know, it sounds downright crazy).

Bone conduction technology done right…

But crazy, it is not. When it comes to workout headphones (especially ones aimed squarely at swimmers), this tech makes perfect sense. The reason that these work so well in the water is that you don’t have to worry about positioning earbuds in your ears.

You don’t have to stress about them slipping out or causing any discomfort inside your ears. Furthermore, they stay securely in place thanks to the integrated clips. These let you fasten the FINIS Duo to your goggle strap. As a result, these are some of the most comfortable waterproof headphones on our list.

Playlists, power, and protection…

With 4GB of storage at your fingertips (or should we say cheekbones), there are never any worries about what you should or shouldn’t move over from your computer. However, it should be noted these only support MP3 and WMA files.

The batteries hold about seven hours of charge when filled up. But one of the few downsides with the FINIS Duo is the charging dock. As it is a proprietary device, if it breaks, you will be in a little bit of trouble.

And, of course, they come with that all-important IPX8 rating. Meaning they can stay at a depth of 10 feet (three meters) for 30 mins.

Pleasantly surprised…

We found this set to be supremely comfortable and were honestly blown away by how well they work. One suggestion is to use your regular swimming earplugs at the same time to maximize sound quality. Bone-conduction. What will they think of next?

3 H2O Audio Stream 2 – Best Value for the Money Waterproof Headphones for Swimming

If bone-conducting technology is not up your alley, then we think the H2O Audio Stream 2 is your next best option. H20 was one of the first companies to start making underwater headphones with over 15 years of development – and it shows!

Comfortable fit in a lightweight package…

The H20 Stream 2 weighs in at a minuscule 3.5 ounces (110g) and is about the same size as an electronic car key. It features a built-in clip that utilizes 360-degree rotation and a serrated inner edge, making it suitable to clip just about anywhere.

When swimming, we clipped it straight onto our goggle band, which was not only comfortable but also made track selection a breeze. This is aided by the thoughtful button placement. Play/pause at the top, track selection in the middle, which doubles as volume controllers, and Bluetooth and shuffle buttons at the rear.

Go wireless…

This is one of the sets that have a built-in MP3 player that we all love. Frankly, this is one of the best waterproof MP3 players for swimming.

Furthermore, unlike some of the other contenders, these can also connect to your phone via Bluetooth. This adds a bunch of versatility to your listening and playback options.

How do they sound?

In terms of sound, these do not disappoint in the slightest. The whole soundstage has been handled with care but in particular the low-end. A slight bass boost makes sure that the H20 Audio Stream 2 never sounds tinny.

A brilliant battery…

The battery assembly is one of the best around. We averaged out at 11 hours 22 mins over three weeks – above the 10 hours stated in the brochure. The IPX8 rating of waterproofing is good to 10 feet (three meters) for 30 minutes. And 8GB of onboard storage is more than we ever needed.

Overall, the Audio stream 2 is a fantastic device if you’re looking for a waterproof MP3 player that won’t break the bank.

4 Pyle Flextreme PSWP6BK – Best Bluetooth Waterproof Headphones for Swimming

Next up in our Best Waterproof Headphones for Swimming reviews, we have the Pyle Flextreme PSWP6BK. This IPX8 rated single unit MP3 player with headphones has been receiving rave reviews since they were released. So we thought it was high time to check them out.

Bumping bass…

The first thing we noticed about this set of waterproof headphones was the next-level bass. Clean, deep, and punchy – and perfectly balanced with the top-end. If you want to swim to a beat, then these could be the headphones for you.

Flexible fit…

The universally-sized, bendable, wrap-around style headphones are adjustable for all head shapes. Wrap-around or neckband style earphones offer excellent flexibility for the easiest, quickest, and most comfortable fit possible. Neckband-style earphones are made for your active lifestyle and slide on in seconds.

Music file management is a walk in the park with the Pyle Flextreme PSWP6BK. All that’s required is to drag and drop from iTunes (for Mac) or your file manager (for PC), with multi-format playback for MP3, WMA, APE, FLAC, and WMV compatibility.

Plenty of storage…

The Pyle Flextreme PSWP6BK comes with 8GB of onboard storage, which gives you access to a huge amount of music, podcasts, or whatever else you decide to upload. They also have Bluetooth connectivity making them super versatile for all types of workouts – or even to be used as your everyday set! And with ten hours plus of battery life, we never felt they were underpowered.

Indeed, a contender for the best swimming headphones currently available.

5 H20 Audio Surge S+ – Best Budget Waterproof Headphones for Swimming

If you’re hunting for the best set of waterproof headphones for swimming that are not going to cost an arm and a leg, then we recommend you take a good look at the H20 Audio Surge S+.

These budget waterproof swimming headphones are big hitters for the price, with fantastic sound, IPX8 waterproofing, high comfort levels.

But they do have one downside…

They do not have a built-in MP3 player; these are essentially just waterproof headphones. That does make them perfect as a replacement set for a waterproof MP3 player. But, to be fair, that can be an upside also depending on your situation.

Find your perfect fit…

The H20 Audio Surge S+ ship with five ear tip sizes and a ‘tree tip’ to provide a fully customizable fit. These keep the headphones in place during even the most strenuous exercise. Finding a comfortable fit is never a problem with this set.

So if you are looking to replace your current set of waterproof headphones for a low price, look no further than the H20 Audio Surge S+.

6 Tayogo Bone Conduction 8GB MP3 Player – Best Waterproof Noise Canceling Headphones for Swimming

If you love using bone-conducting headphones but want an alternative to the FINIS DUO that is a little bit friendlier to your bank account, then we’ve found the set for you. The Tayogo bone conduction headphones are a worthy opponent!

Sturdy, reliable, and long-lasting…

The Tayogo has a rigid, ultra-durable housing that oozes premium quality. The designers at Tayogo have put in a huge amount of effort here. This set of underwater headphones can handle temps up to 140°F (60°C) and a max depth of 27 feet (five meters), so no worries taking these into the jacuzzi or even your favorite hot springs.

Weighing in at a measly 32 grams (just over an ounce), this is one of the lightest sets we looked at, making them perfect for any sport.

The 8GB integrated MP3 player can play almost any file you throw at it – MP3 (8 to 320kbps), WMA, DRM, OGG, WAV, and AAC-LC. And it can hold over 2000 songs. Thankfully the battery is also up to the job, with an average playback time of seven hours 43 minutes at 75% volume.

Focus on the music…

We found the ergonomic earplug design to be comfy over long periods, and by using a pair of earplugs, ambient noise is eliminated from entering your ear cavity, giving you the best sonic experience possible.

The control panel sits at the back of the neck and is laid out to be a breeze to use while swimming (there’s even a handy little shuffle button thrown in).

A great choice for the best wallet friendly waterproof headphones.

Best Waterproof Headphones for Swimming Buyers Guide

Before you dive in, it’s important to ask yourself a few questions. What’s the IP rating you are looking for? Do you want Bluetooth? How easy is it to control while in the water? How good is the battery life?

Luckily we have thrown together this handy buyer’s guide to help you find the best set of waterproof headphones for swimming.

IP Rating

It is important to understand the difference between waterproof and water-resistant. It’s easy to get these terms confused, but when it comes to swimming headphones, it is essential to get this right. Water-resistant headphones can handle water penetration but in limited degrees, while waterproof headphones are protected from full water immersion.

Since you are looking for a set of headphones to swim in, an IP rating of at least IPX8 is required. This is the minimum IP rating that one should get for underwater purposes.

Integrated MP3 Player

They say that the simplest solution is usually the best, and here is no exception to the rule. The easiest way to listen to your favorite tracks while swimming, without having to worry about Bluetooth dropouts or buying a waterproof MP3 player, is to buy a set of swimming headphones that have an integrated MP3 player inbuilt. That’s what we recommend anyway.

4GB of storage will allow room for about 1000 songs, or about 12.5 hours playback time. Many sets offer more than this as a minimum.

Wired Vs. Wireless Vs. Bone Conduction

When it comes to finding the best headphones for swimming, the choice has been made for you. There are just no sets of wireless swimming headsets available right now that work well. With the average range of Bluetooth sitting at 30 feet (and less than a foot underwater), wireless sets are impractical right now.

Other than in-ear headphones, there’s another type of headphone tech that is great for use while swimming – Bone Conduction Headphones. Using the principle of sound transfer through vibrations, bone conduction headphones send vibrations straight to your cheekbones to transfer sound to your ears.

While there is some debate about sound quality with this technology, bone conduction headphones do have their own benefits. They are great for some people with certain hearing issues because you aren’t relying on your ear cavity to transfer sounds. It also eliminates the issues surrounding getting a watertight ear seal.

Battery Life

Most sets offer at least 3.5 hours of charge time. For a set of swimming headphones, this seems like a decent amount of juice. Even the most avid swimmers would rarely swim for longer than this.

One thing to consider is charging connector types. Some headphones come with proprietary connectors that are useless with anything other than the headphones themselves, and it’s a real pain if the charger itself breaks.

Always settle on a set that uses a universal charger like the micro-USB or, even better, USB type-C.

Ear Tip Style

Ear tip style and comfort are always important when considering a set of headphones, but especially so when it comes to a set for swimming in. It’s super important to find a pair that has a watertight seal and that they have long-lasting comfort.

They come in many different styles and are made from a range of materials – rubber, silicone, foam, or hybrid. Ear tip styles are a bit different from what you might be used to seeing with fins and flanges taking center stage. It’s all about getting that waterproof seal.

What are The Best Waterproof Headphones for Swimming?

So here we are, and it’s time for us to pick an overall winner. Truly not the easiest task, and there was a bunch of back and forth here at the office, and it took longer than we expected. But we did finally land on an overall winner. And that set is the…..

H2O Audio Stream 2

With so many years of development under their belt, H20 has been able to produce the best underwater headphones for swimmers we have seen to this point.

Until next time, happy listening and swimming!