Best for watersports
H20 Audio’s iSH2 Waterproof Headset
If you do lots of swimming or already have an iPod Shuffle, the iSH2 Waterproof Headset is the one for you. Simply pop an iPod Shuffle in the sealable case at the back of the headset, then dive in for a swim. Controls on the exterior of the headset mean you can change songs or volume while you're in the water. The headset attaches to your swim goggles for stability. Like the Mi-sport headphones (see next page), these are also good for other activities, but the headband isn’t as adjustable as the one on the Mi-sport, so vigorous non-water workouts might dislodge it.
Hardware: The headphones are stiff U-shaped, and when not swimming, they sit outside the ear, like the Mi-sport. However, in the water, silicone earbuds go over the headphones, and these go in the ear, keeping water out and getting the music in.
We like the fact they’re waterproof (to three metres), wireless and with goggle clips to keep them in place when swimming. If you want to go deep, check out H20 Audio’s Deep Dive Waterproof Cases.
Price: £59.95
Buy it: h2oaudio.co.uk
Best for comfort
Bang & Olufsen A8 Headphones
These stylish in-ear headphones feel and sound as good as they look. Made from anodised aluminium and flexible rubber, they curve around your ear shape. They’re so comfortable, you’ll forget you’re even wearing them – brilliant for long flights or marathons. As you’d expect with B&O, sound quality is excellent. The close fit of the headphones virtually eliminates sound leakage, so you can crank it up as high as you like without getting annoyed looks from the people around you. As a bonus, they come in an attractive carrying case.
Hardware: Thin black wires lead to in-ear headphones with flexible over-ear supports to keep them from slipping.
We like the look and feel. These are simply gorgeous, and oh-so comfy.
Price: RRP£90, but only £79 from High Life Shop!
Buy it: highlifeshop.com or on your British Airways flight
Best for durability
Sennheiser MX80 Sport II
If you’re going to be using headphones during adventurous activities or you tend to bash or drop them, the Sennheiser MS80 Sport II headphones are a good choice. They’re made with an especially rugged design, are sweat- and water-resistant and washable under running water. Sound quality is good, as you’d expect of Sennheiser, with an especially strong bass, but it’s not quite up there with the Bang & Olufsen, Bose or pricier Sennheisers.
Hardware: Long, thin orange wires lead to grey in-ear headphones. Although technically ‘in-ear’, these don’t go as far in as normal in-ear headphones. This means they have a tendency to fall out in more vigorous activities. Because they're extra durable, though, they're unlikely to be damaged if they hit the ground.
We like the price – bargain for the quality.
Price: £25
Buy it: sennheiser.com
Go to page 2 to read about the best for wireless workouts and the best for sound.
