If you've been searching for some quality running headphones - no, let's say it, the best running headphones - our guide to the very best on the market today will put you straight. There are hundreds of models to look at nowadays, but we've condensed it into The Ultimate Top 5, the 5 you really should be considering if you're serious about listening to some tunes while running.
JBuds J3 Micro Atomic In-Ear Earphones
The first of our glorious Top 5 running headphones is the JBuds J3. Based on JBuds' excellent sound resonance, these earphones are just right for your running experience as they deliver awesome acoustic levels. They're also ultra slim, and ergonomically designed to slot right into any ear.
You'll enjoy any type of music on these, be it soft jazz or pumping hip hop-the J3 Micro Atomic Earphones will amaze you with crystal clear highs, deep, full mids, a tight punchy bass, and awesome noise isolation.
Whatever the size of your ears you're sorted, with four different sizes of silicone cushions. The J3 Micro Atomic Earphones also come with a sexy travel case to serve and protect your earphones.
Klipsch IMAGE S4 Noise Isolating Headphones
The Klipsch IMAGE S4 headphones are high-level earphones that really do a quite awesome job when compared to other brands out there, and especially to the standard phones you'll get with your audio device. They deliver superb musical output, are extremely comfortable and isolate those noises so you can really get into your running. Truly one of the best headphones for running on the market.
The Image S4's terrific soft and flexible ear tips (that come in 3 different sizes) fit the natural line of your ear, meaning extra comfort and the near-perfect acoustic seal - in other words, noise isolation that let's you enjoy your music and your running.
Whatever the music, whatever your pace, the Image S4 delivers amazing sound. If it's thumping bass or the high pitch of an opera diva, you won't miss a beat. Also sexily designed in black and silver, your friends might just feel the pangs of jealousy! With a 2 year warranty, compatibility with the iPod, iPhone and other devices with a 3.5mm jack, and a cleaning tool and aluminum case also included, your friends will surely be turning green!
Klipsch S4i Premium Noise Isolating 3 Button
The younger sister of the IMAGE S4, these headphones are made for music loving joggers into their iPhones and iPods. The Image S4i might be another in-ear headphone that takes getting used to (if you haven't tried in-ear sets before you should take into account a "wearing in" period), but they just add so much quality to your listening experience, while even letting you answer calls without missing a beat.
One big advantage with the S4i is its compatibility with the Apple VoiceOver feature on the third generation iPod shuffle, enabling you to hear the playlist name, song or artist just by pressing a button.
Another headset to rank high in our best headphones for running category, the Image S4i also comes with a two year warranty, four different-sized ear tips, an ear tip cleaning tool, a premium carrying pouch as well as a clothing clip. It's the most expensive on this list of top running headphones, but the control it gives you over your tunes and your telephone is well worth the investment.
Sony SRF M37W Walkman
Yes, a Sony Walkman! Ah, we remember our first Walkman, back in the 80s...AHEM! Anyway, this Walkman stereo radio is a great little headphone set for running with. It also has a superb Weather Band Tuning Function, which gives you timely weather forecasts from your local weather band broadcasts, all at the touch of a button.
This Sony Walkman lets you program 20 preset channels, comes with a one year warranty, gives great reception and is very durable. Perhaps the perfect headphones for running, especially for those of you who live in more weather-prone areas?
Plantronics BackBeat 906 Bluetooth Headset
The last, but not least, of our best headphones for running category is the Plantronics 906 Bluetooth Headset. With the awesome Bluetooth adapter, these wireless headphones let you enjoy quality sound, while smart dual-mic AudioIQ voice technology provides amazing clarity when you switch over (the press of a button and you can immediately start talking) to your mobile/cell. And yes, hear calls in stereo!
Great sound quality, the awesome ability to control your playlist at ease (with strong, sturdy buttons), ear buds that conform to the contours of your ear, a rechargeable battery that gives up to seven hours of music/calls, plus a one year warranty, make these headphones a great buy. One thing you should remember - the Bluetooth wireless adapter means you're, er, wireless, and the reception range can vary according to your environment.