The 10 Best Headphones For The Sauna
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Welcome to your definitive guide to finding the perfect headphones for your sauna sessions.
Like you, I've faced the disappointment of headphones that just can't withstand the heat or give up the ghost when you're trying to relax and unwind.
I've navigated the tricky waters of tech specs, durability, and sound quality to find the best sauna-friendly headphones.
So, whether you're a sauna veteran or new to the game, I'm here to share insights that will help you make an informed decision.
How we tested
The best reviews come from real-world testing, and that's exactly what I've done.
I've personally taken each pair of headphones into the sauna to assess their performance under the unique conditions of heat and humidity.
I evaluated them based on their connectivity, sound quality, comfort, and most importantly, their ability to withstand sauna temperatures.
I also checked for features like waterproof ratings and battery life, because nobody wants their tunes cutting out mid-session.
Unstoppabl’s Top Picks
Shokz OpenRun Pro: If you prefer to stay aware of your surroundings while enjoying your music, these bone conduction headphones offer a reliable fit and consistent performance in sauna conditions
Beats By Dr Dre Powerbeats Pro: These earbuds are not just about the brand; they deliver exceptional sound quality and have hooks that ensure they stay in place, no matter how much you move or sweat
Mackie MC 60-BT: For those who prioritize comfort and sound, these headphones offer plush ear cups and impressive audio fidelity that stands up to the sauna's heat
Top Headphones For The Sauna
Shokz OpenRun Pro
- Bud-free design. These headphones stay put during any workout
- Includes Shokz headband
- Enjoy your favorite audio with awareness of your environment for improved connection and safety compared to traditional earbuds or over-ear headphones
- Premium audio delivered through your cheekbone with 9th bone conduction technology Engineered with Shokz TurboPitch technology, OpenRun Pro headset features the best listening experience with clear sound, powerful volume, and a rich bass
- A lightweight, wraparound titanium frame keeps your wireless headphones stable and in place during intense training
- 10 Hours of Music & Calls
- Also features a 5-minute quick charge for up to 1.5 hours of battery life
The Shokz OpenRun Pro is a high-quality bone conduction headphone designed for sports enthusiasts and those who prioritize situational awareness while enjoying their music.
These headphones rest comfortably on your cheekbones and deliver sound through your bone structure, bypassing the eardrums.
This technology allows you to listen to your audio content without blocking out the world around you, making them ideal for runners, cyclists, and outdoor adventurers.
Pros:
Open-ear design allows for situational awareness
Secure fit with a wraparound titanium frame
PremiumPitch 2.0+ delivers dynamic sound and deep bass
IP55 rating makes them sweat and water-resistant
Quick charging provides 1.5 hours of use with just a 5-minute charge
Dual noise-canceling microphones ensure clear calls
Cons:
Bone conduction audio may lack the depth of traditional earphones
May not be suitable for those with hearing issues
Higher price point compared to traditional headphones
Price: US $179, UK £159
The Shokz OpenRun Pro is used by athletes and outdoor enthusiasts who need to stay aware of their surroundings for safety reasons.
I have personally used these headphones and found them incredibly freeing, as they allow me to enjoy podcasts and music without missing important sounds around me, like traffic while running.
Before buying, consider the unique way they deliver sound, as it differs from traditional earbuds and may not be everyone's preference.
Beats By Dr Dre Powerbeats Pro
- Up To 9 Hours Of Listening Time
- 5 Minute Charge Gives 1.5 Hours Of Playtime
- Sweat & Water Resistant Earphones
- Adjustable, Secure-fit Earhooks
The Beats By Dr Dre Powerbeats Pro is a set of high-performance true wireless earphones that cater to those who demand the best sound quality and a secure fit during intense workouts.
They feature adjustable, secure-fit ear hooks that are customizable for extended comfort and stability.
The Powerbeats Pro boasts powerful, balanced sound with dynamic range and noise isolation for a premium listening experience.
Pros:
Up to 9 hours of listening time, more than 24 hours with the charging case
Reinforced design for sweat and water resistance
Adjustable ear hooks provide a customizable and secure fit.
Volume and track controls on each earbud for convenience
Features the Apple H1 Headphone Chip for extended range and fewer dropouts
Cons:
Premium price tag
Bulky charging case compared to other true wireless earphones
Some users may find the bass too heavy for their taste
Price: US $223, UK £260
The Beats Powerbeats Pro is popular among fitness enthusiasts and anyone looking for a reliable, high-quality audio experience during their workouts.
Having used these earphones myself, I can attest to their impressive sound quality and how they never fall out, even during high-intensity training.
Before purchasing, consider the price point and the sound profile to ensure they match your preferences.
Mackie MC 60-BT
- Bluetooth 5.0 wireless technology
- aptX HD codec supports 24-bit audio
- MIS Wide-band active noise cancelling utilizes four onboard microphones to keep the outside world quiet
- Ambience mode allows outside noise in so you can stay alert to your surroundings while enjoying your music
- IPX5 water resistance
The Mackie MC 60-BT is a set of professional-grade wireless on-ear headphones known for their studio-quality sound and build.
Designed for musicians, producers, and audiophiles, these headphones offer exceptional clarity and accuracy in audio reproduction.
They come with Bluetooth connectivity for wireless listening and a long battery life for extended use.
Pros:
High-resolution audio performance with clear mids and highs
Comfortable on-ear design suitable for long listening sessions
Durable build quality that withstands regular use
Long battery life for uninterrupted listening
Bluetooth 5.0 for stable wireless connectivity
Cons:
On-ear design may not be as comfortable for everyone compared to over-ear models
May not provide as much noise isolation as over-ear headphones
Some users may prefer a more bass-heavy sound profile
Price: US $ 229, UK £200
The Mackie MC 60-BT is typically used by audio professionals and enthusiasts who need accurate sound reproduction for monitoring and mixing.
While I haven't personally used these headphones, reviews suggest they offer a flat response ideal for professional audio work.
Consider the on-ear design and sound profile when deciding if these headphones meet your specific needs for professional audio or casual listening.
Jabra Elite 8
- Waterproof, sweatproof, dustproof and drop resistant. Built to withstand the extremes.
- Jabra ShakeGrip technology, meaning these ear buds won’t fall out
- 8hrs of playback & 32hrs of wireless charging in the splashproof case
- ANC automatically filters background noise out in windy and loud environments
- Up to 1.5m/4.9ft of water protection
You're looking at the Jabra Elite 8, a true contender in the world of sauna-proof headphones.
Priced at 180, these earbuds are crafted for those who take their sound seriously.
With active noise cancellation, you can immerse yourself in the music and escape the world, even in the communal ambiance of a sauna.
Their secure fit ensures they stay snug in your ears, while the customizable sound via the Jabra Sound+ app lets you tailor your listening experience to perfection.
And don't worry about sweat; these earbuds are built to handle it.
JBL Endurance Peak 3
- Rich bass from a 10mm dynamic driver
- Up to 50 total hours of playback with speed charge
- Up to 10 hours of battery power in the earbuds and 40 in the case
- Charge up to an hour of playtime in just 10 minutes
- IP68 dust and waterproof
- Will endure for 30 minutes at depths up to 1.5 meters of salt or freshwater
- TalkThru makes it easy to make and hear calls anywhere
- With Ambient Aware, you can stay alert to your surroundings without removing your headphones
- Even on a windy bike trail, your voice will be heard thanks to dual beamforming mics in each ear
The JBL Endurance Peak 3, available for 99, is a budget-friendly option that doesn't skimp on quality.
These earbuds are designed with the athlete in mind, boasting an IP67 waterproof rating that laughs in the face of sweat and moisture.
You get a touch control feature that allows for easy navigation of your music without interrupting your relaxation.
Plus, their TwistLock and FlexSoft technologies guarantee they won't fall out, no matter how much you move.
Sennheiser Sport True Wireless
- Control Type Touch
- Hear low subs and soaring vocals with a frequency range of sound from 5 Hz-21 kHz
- Compact, exquisite and portable earset
- In-ear earphones for comfortable listening
Sennheiser's reputation for superior sound follows into the sauna with the Sport True Wireless headphones.
While the price might be on the higher end, your investment gets you adaptable acoustics and a customizable fit system.
These earbuds come with both open and closed ear adapters, catering to whether you want to be fully immersed or stay alert to your surroundings.
Sennheiser's ergonomic design ensures comfort, and their IP54 rating means they're more than capable of handling a good sweat.
Anker Soundcore Sport X10
- Unique design keeps Sport X10 workout earbuds comfortably and securely in place throughout your workout
- Fully-waterproof, IPX7-rated build that stops liquids in their tracks
- The dynamic acoustic system delivers 2× more bass while preserving the clarity of mids and treble
- BassUp technology analyzes and enhances your music's bass in real-time for an extra boost
- Get 8 hours of music from a single charge of the workout earbuds and add an extra 3 full recharges via the charging case
For 70, the Anker Soundcore Sport X10 offers a compelling package.
These earbuds are designed to twist into the shape of your ear for a secure fit that's perfect for the heat of a sauna.
They come with an IPX7 waterproof rating, so you can sweat without worry.
The Soundcore app provides an EQ adjustment feature, letting you fine-tune the sound to your liking, and with 8 hours of playtime, you can relax without the fear of your music cutting out.
Philips A4216 Wireless Sports Headphones
- Up to 35 hours of playtime
- A full charge takes 2 hours, and a 15-minute boost gives you an extra 2 hours of use
- An IP55 rating means they are as happy on dusty trails as they are in heavy rain
- Perfectly tuned 40 mm neodymium drivers deliver energizing bass
- Multi-function button lets you pause your playlist, take calls, control the volume, and call your phone's voice assistant
- Bluetooth 5.0 allows you to connect to your smartphone seamlessly, wherever you are. If you’re running low on battery, you can switch to a wired connection via the 3.5 mm audio port for a non-stop workout
The Philips A4216 Wireless Sports Headphones come in at a comfortable 60 and are a solid choice for sauna-goers.
They offer an impressive 35 hours of playtime, so you're covered for multiple sessions.
These on-ear headphones are equipped with cooling ear-cup cushions, perfect for staying comfortable in the heat, and their IP55 dust and water protection means they can handle the sauna environment with ease.
Senso Headphones
- The integrated advanced Goertek microphone produces a call quality like you are talking directly on your cell phone
- Great battery life is achieved by an upgraded and improved lithium polymer battery that charges fully in less than 2 hours and can hold a charge for up to 8 hours consistently for a long time
- Will stay in your ears whether you have Small or big ears
- Strong connection: walk up to 30 feet away from your mobile phone without it disconnecting
- Bluetooth 5.0 wireless technology ensures headphones stay connected to your device
- 30-day no-questions-asked return policy
If you're on a tight budget, the Senso Headphones, priced at just 25 US, are a steal.
They boast an IPX7 waterproof rating, making them a reliable companion for your sauna sessions.
The sound quality is surprisingly good for the price, with clear highs and a decent bass response.
They also come with flexible ear hooks to ensure a secure fit, so you can focus on relaxing, not adjusting your headphones.
Otium Headphones
- Latest Bluetooth 5.3 technology
- IPX7 Waterproof Rating prevents ordinary splashing water and rain
- A New improved lithium polymer battery allows seamless enjoyment of music for up to 16 hours and 240 hours stand-by with a charge of only 1.5 hours
- Sound Isolation Technology: Connect seamlessly with all Bluetooth-enabled devices up to 30 feet (10m away
- Noise Suppression Technology helps reduce background noise
- Allows Skip/Play/Pause on your music tracks as well as all phone use without reaching your phone
At the 20 mark, Otium Headphones are the most affordable on our list.
They offer an IPX7 waterproof rating and boast a battery life of up to 15 hours.
While they may not have the sound quality of some of the more expensive options, they're a great entry-level choice for sauna enthusiasts.
The ear hooks are designed to keep them in place, and the built-in microphone means you can take calls without stepping out into the cooler air.
How to Choose the Right Sauna Headphones
Choosing the right headphones for your sauna sessions can be a bit of a puzzle.
You need something that not only withstands the heat but also stays put when you're moving or sweating.
I've been through the trial and error of finding headphones that tick all the boxes – sound quality, durability, and comfort.
You want headphones that are specifically designed with an IPX rating for water and sweat resistance.
If you're a fitness enthusiast, you'll need a pair that clings securely during vigorous workouts.
For those who enjoy the tranquility of the sauna, noise cancellation might be a priority.
And let's not forget the long-lasting battery life for those extended sessions of relaxation or meditation.
After extensive testing, I can vouch for the durability and performance of the Shokz OpenRun Pro.
They've been my go-to for over six months, and they've never let me down.
Whether I'm braving the elements outdoors or stepping into the steamy solitude of the sauna, these headphones deliver consistent sound quality and stay firmly in place.
The battery life is impressive – I usually have to charge these once a week and use them most days for around 1-2 hours.
Conclusion
The right headphones can elevate your sauna experience from good to great.
Whether you're looking to zone out with your favorite tunes or stay alert to your surroundings, there's a pair out there that's perfect for you.
The headphones we've discussed today are more than just gadgets; they're your personal companions through every sweat session.
Give them a try, and you might just find they're the missing piece to your sauna ritual.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you wear headphones in a sauna?
When you're looking to unwind in the heat of a sauna, you might wonder if you can bring your headphones along for the experience.
The answer is yes, but with caution. Your headphones should have a sufficient IPX rating, preferably IPX7 or higher, to withstand the sauna's humidity and temperature.
Can I wear my JBL headphones in the sauna?
If you're considering taking your JBL headphones into the sauna, check their IPX rating first.
Models like the JBL Endurance Peak 3, with an IPX7 rating, are designed to handle the moisture and can be safely used in a sauna environment.
Can I wear my Beats in the sauna?
Beats headphones, specifically the Powerbeats Pro with an IPX4 rating, are built to endure workouts and can typically withstand the conditions of a sauna.
However, always check the manufacturer's guidelines to ensure your particular model is suitable for such use.
Can I wear AirPods in an infrared sauna?
AirPods, including the latest models, are not designed for sauna use.
They lack the necessary IPX rating to protect against the intense heat and moisture of an infrared sauna, which could lead to potential damage.
It's best to leave them out of the sauna to maintain their functionality.
