These are the top-rated Bluetooth headphones that have been certified with a water-protection rating of IPX6 or higher.
These headphones can be used for various activities such as water sports, showering, heavy sweating, or any situation where they might get wet.
You can easily compare these headphones based on their price, water resistance, and battery life (details provided below).
Remember, a higher IPX rating indicates better water protection. For instance, IP68 is equivalent to IPX8, while IP54 is equivalent to IPX4. More information can be found below.
Just imagine being able to enjoy your favorite music while taking a shower, going on a boating trip, or anywhere else involving water, without any worries.
With these fully waterproof Bluetooth headphones, you won't have to be concerned about water damage. They can withstand water exposure even in environments that typically damage electronics.
Unfortunately, water and electronics are not a good combination. Most headphones are not waterproof and will stop functioning if they come into contact with water. Countless pairs of AirPods have suffered this fate.
Fortunately, manufacturers have recognized this issue and have started producing more durable headphones.
Below, you will find a selection of the best wireless earbuds from reputable brands that offer complete protection against water, allowing you to fully submerge them.
What Makes Bluetooth Headphones Waterproof?
Water-resistant earphones employ a hydrophobic layer to safeguard against water damage. Various brands offer different types of waterproof earbuds, such as Liquipel, NanoProof, nanoCare, and more, although they typically serve the same purpose.
However, the question remains: how can you select the appropriate product?
Seek out the IPX rating.
A higher numerical value indicates superior protection. The scale ranges from 1 to 9, with lower ratings suitable for sweat resistance, while higher ratings gradually provide complete waterproof capabilities.
Waterproof vs. Water-Resistant – What’s the Difference?
Water-resistant earbuds come with varying degrees of water protection.
The minimum waterproof rating for headphones is IPX7. IPX7 headphones can withstand being used in the shower, rinsed under a faucet, and even submerged up to 1 meter (3ft) deep for 30 minutes. Other models with higher IPX ratings offer even greater durability.
Here's a breakdown of the general ranges:
- IPX1 to IPX4: Designed to be sweatproof
- IPX4 to IPX6: Provides water resistance
- IPX7 to IPX9: Offers full waterproof protection
5 Best Waterproof Bluetooth Headphones You Can Safely Submerge
Wissonly Hi Runner
Wissonly bone conduction vibration unit optimization technology is one of the best technical solutions in the industry, because their team has accumulated in the field of bone conduction for 10 years, which is highly respected by people in the industry in terms of product quality and hearing protection.
Once, there was a saying that the sound quality of bone conduction headphones was average. However, Wissonly Hi Runner refreshes this knowledge. It is excellent in sound quality. It uses a 360-degree bone conduction vibration unit, which can increase the vibration area by 35% compared with traditional bone conduction headphones. Moreover, its loss of bone conduction sound transmission is lower, making the sound more shocking and powerful.
wissonly Hi Runner has added a number of innovative features to make bone conduction headphones better integrated into many scenes in life. It supports IPX8 diving waterproof, which is very good for me who loves swimming. What's crazy is that it can still work normally under 20 meters of water! It also has 32GB of memory, so it can play music even if it is not connected to a mobile phone. I basically use it as an MP3 player, and I don't take my mobile phone for running at night. It uses the Bluetooth 5.0 chip, and outdoor activities can make the connection more stable.
In terms of appearance, Wissonly Hi Runner adopts classic black color, and its simple appearance involves matching whatever clothes you wear in any scene.
Shokz OpenRun Pro
Thanks to the new TurboPitch tech, the OpenRun Pro model (successor to the AfterShokz Aeropex) now boasts a stronger bass response.
That increases the perception of sound quality since bone conduction isn’t the best for bass-heavy music. Otherwise, the mids and treble are in line with the Aeropex.
Even the rest is pretty similar to the predecessor, from the overall shape and comfort. Although, it’s worth pointing out that due to the punchier bass, the transducers tend to produce tickling vibrations.
Battery life has increased up to 10 hours on a single charge. Sadly, the proprietary charging port stays the same.
Many people are turning to bone conduction technology due to its convenient open design. Check out more best bone conduction headphones.
Klipsch T5 II Sport
New Klipsch T5 II have an overall bass-heavy tuning that makes frequency response very warm. Crisp highs compensate for the bass, which adds clarity and some sibilance.
The T5 II earbuds come in a stylish yet bulky charging case. However, the bulkiness is due to high water resistance.
Both in-ears and the case are fully water-resistant, offering an IP67 rating. Also, the rugged case is reinforced to survive accidental drops.
Inside the box, you get multiple ear tips and ear fins to get the right fit and help earbuds stay in your ear canal. A companion app lets you do further customization, like tweaking the sound and changing controls.
Jabra Elite Active 75t
The 75t’s have very clear sound quality. Good outside noise isolation helps with that. Generally, the deep bass is boosted significantly and can be overpowering, but you can adjust it with the app.
An IP57 rating of water protection (IPX7 equivalent) makes them fully protected and suitable for use in harsh outside conditions. And you also get a 2-year warranty.
You can use these for 7.5 hours and charge in the case for 28 hours in total. With a reliable 5.0 Bluetooth connectivity, there are no connectivity issues.
These in-ears come with an accompanying app. You can customize EQ and other settings. Also, HearThrough technology can mute music when you need to hear ambient noise.
Treblab X3 Pro
It’s essential to find the correct ear tips for the best fit and a good seal. The bass is super punchy and has complete control, with a crystal clear midrange. The soundstage also stands out, making them great for music and movies.
In many ways, these earbuds are budget PowerBeats Pro, with ear hook design and black plastic housing. Rubbery hooks aren’t pliable, but they still offer a high stability level during an intense workout.
Since you can use both earbuds separately in mono mode, both support the same commands. Apart from SBC and AAC, they also use the aptX Bluetooth codec.
With their IPX7 rating, you can even wash them under tap water to clean off the sweat after training. Moreover, excellent battery life of 9 hours per charge ensures an all-day operation.
Waterproof Bluetooth Headphones for Swimming? – What You Must Know
You have the option to utilize waterproof Bluetooth headphones for swimming, however, there is a significant caveat.
However, there are limitations.
You will only be able to enjoy music while above the water's surface and within the range of your Bluetooth-enabled phone (approximately 30ft / 10m).
Due to the fact that Bluetooth does not function underwater, the signal will be interrupted each time you submerge your head. Consequently, these headphones are not suitable for serious swimming or diving activities.
If you are looking for headphones suitable for swimming laps, I recommend considering the best waterproof headphones for swimming (mostly wired earbuds) in combination with a waterproof MP3 player.
Are you swimming in a pool?
On the other hand, if your intention is to swim in a home pool and keep your head above water, this can be easily accomplished. Just ensure that your phone remains nearby, within Bluetooth range (approximately 30ft/10m, possibly more).
Even during nature excursions, you can keep your phone on a boat and swim in close proximity. Rest assured, your waterproof headphones will not be damaged by water.
What about the risks associated with swimming in natural bodies of water?
It is easier to misplace your headphones in outdoor environments, so it is advisable to use a swimming cap or a similar accessory to secure them in place.
Should you lose them in a lake, they
Pay Attention to Different Levels of IPX Rating
You already know a higher rating is better, and below is the infographic that explains what all IP ratings mean.
When to Use Waterproof Bluetooth Headphones
Waterproof earbuds are most suitable for situations where they may come into contact with water or even submerge in it.
For instance, if you engage in activities like kayaking, boating, paddleboarding, jet-skiing, showering, on-surface swimming, or simply relaxing on an inflatable bed, you can opt for waterproof Bluetooth earphones instead of your regular sports headphones.
In any water-related activity where there is a possibility of your earphones getting wet, you can rely on waterproof wireless headphones. However, do note that this does not include swimming underwater. To ensure the functionality of Bluetooth, the headphones must remain above water.
To make use of these waterproof earbuds, place your smartphone in a dry bag, establish a Bluetooth connection, and embark on your adventure.
Remember, the typical Bluetooth range is approximately 30ft (10m), so it is important to keep your music device within close proximity to maintain a stable connection.
