The iPhone is a technological phenomena like we’ve never seen before. Not only does nearly every person at every street corner seem to own one, but every person inside or outside a gym seems to be working out with them as well. And in the rare occasion that they’re not using an iPhone then they’re using an iPod…so…one of the most popular questions has quickly become…
What are the Best Sports Headphones for the iPhone or iPod?
Unfortunately you’re not going to like our answer. We’re not going to unveil some secret list of sports earbuds to replace those horrible white earbuds that Apple packages with their products. Why? Because there is no such list. In all honesty nearly every sports headphones manufacturer we’ve encountered ensures that one of the first things they do is check for compatibility with the iPhone and iPod. It would be silly not to. Thus, the best sports headphones for the iPhone or iPod are – in most cases – the best sports headphones for any device.
However, some sports headphones are taking it to a whole new level by including specific integration with the iPhone with control talk features and in-line phone and music controls. It’s these headphones that we recommend you look at first.
Our Top 6 Sports Headphones for the iPhone
*Note: we have not rated this list 1-6, these are just our overall top 6 listed in alphabetical order.
Bose MIE2i
The Bose MIE2i are an adaptation from their industry leading Bose IE2 headphones, with a specific focus on increased functionality with Apple products. The in-line controls feature call controls, such as one touch answering and volume and track controls that work seamlessly with Apple products
Of all the headphones on the list the Bose MIE2i and the Sennheiser CX 680i are the only sports earbuds that utilize an ear fin system to hold the earbuds in place while working out or training. This is becoming increasingly popular for people who are trying to avoid an in-ear canal earbud, but still wanting a great fit.
Click here for our full review
Klipsch Image S4i
The Klipsch Image S4i are a takeoff of the Klipsch Image S4, with the added functionality of a 3 button Apple control. One feature they put a lot of effort into is an echo-cancelling microphone that is built into the in-line controls. This can definitely come in handy if you’re using these to answer a call while at the gym.
While the Klipsch Image S4i are still an incredible set of sports earbuds for the iPhone, we highly recommend you check out the updated Klipsch Image S5i (directly below).
Click here for our full review
Klipsch Image S5i
Klipsch decided to capitalize on the popularity of the Klipsch Image S4i by creating the Klipsch Image S5i. Not only do they also sound amazing and utilize their patented oval ear tips, but they’ve also put a major emphasis on durability which will go a long way for any athlete that loves to train while tuned into their favorite songs.
One additional feature they’ve added to the inline controls is to make the actual buttons larger. This makes these headphones perfect for someone utilizing them with gloves on, for instance, skiing.
Click here for our full review
Polk Audio UltraFit 3000
The UltraFit 3000 from Polk Audio are the newest sports headphones on this list and also the only ear hook headphones included. These are 1 of 4 of Polk Audio’s new line of sports headphones and one of the only ones to include in-line controls that function with the iPhone.
While these are a bit newer and not as tested as the others on this list, Polk Audio is well known for extraordinary sound quality and if you’re a runner you may like the addition of the ear hook to keep these in place. Definitely check these out. It doesn’t hurt that they look pretty nice as well, coming in multiple different colors.
Click here for our full review
The Sennheiser CX 680i are very similar to the Bose MIE2i, in that they also utilize an ear fin system for a secure fit while working out. Just like the Bose, these headphones will stay put once you have them in.
An added benefit that you’ll notice most Sennheiser sports headphones utilize is the bright yellow color on the controls and cord. Not only does at add a little bit of style, but it’s also a safety factor for anyone running at night or working out at dusk.
Click here for our full review
Sennheiser PMX 680i
The Sennheiser PMX 680i are the only neckband headphones on this list. They utilize the same system as the Sennheiser CX 680i (mentioned above).
These are some of the single most popular sports headphones in the past couple years, and continue to be a standard for neckband headphones. We’ve had some great input from cyclists who really love these headphones.
Click here for our full review
What are some other sports headphones that work great with the iPhone?
As we mentioned above it is very rare that we come across earbuds that don’t function well with Apple products. While the above sports earbuds have the added functionality of in-line controls to add to their sports features, there are still other great workout earbuds for the iPhone. If you’re looking to check out some of the other options, we highly recommend you check out these amazing sports headphones.
