What Is The Best Mountain Biking Headphones?
In this mountain biking headphones review, our team thoroughly compared design, features, comfort and value for money for multiple products. After hours of research and testing, we recommend the SHOKZ OpenMove Open-Ear Bluetooth Sport Headphones as the best mountain biking headphones on the market.
Mountain Biking Headphones Reviews
Discover unparalleled comfort with the feather-light and secure fit of the OpenMove headset. Designed to eliminate ear fatigue, these headphones offer an earbud-free design, perfect for all-day listening, especially while out on the trails.
As a mountain biker, safety is of utmost importance, and the OpenMove headset allows you to stay connected to your favorite audio without compromising on your safety. Unlike over-ear and in-ear headphones, the OpenMove keeps you aware of your surroundings, ensuring that you can easily navigate obstacles like logs, rocks, and big drop-offs while enjoying your music.
The wraparound titanium frame ensures that these bone-conduction headphones stay in place during a range of low-impact activities, whether you’re on a rugged trail or cruising on the blacktop.
With a single charge, the OpenMove headset offers six continuous hours of music, calls, and podcasts, making it perfect for extended riding sessions.
At a glance
The Shokz OpenMove is a great, cost-effective Bluetooth bone-conduction headset with excellent sound quality. The recent design changes make it slightly less comfortable for extended wear while mountain biking, but it’s still a reliable and affordable option.
Discover unparalleled comfort with the feather-light and secure fit of the OpenMove headset. Designed to eliminate ear fatigue, these headphones offer an earbud-free design, perfect for all-day listening, especially while out on the trails.
As a mountain biker, safety is of utmost importance, and the OpenMove headset allows you to stay connected to your favorite audio without compromising on your safety. Unlike over-ear and in-ear headphones, the OpenMove keeps you aware of your surroundings, ensuring that you can easily navigate obstacles like logs, rocks, and big drop-offs while enjoying your music.
The wraparound titanium frame ensures that these bone-conduction headphones stay in place during a range of low-impact activities, whether you’re on a rugged trail or cruising on the blacktop.
With a single charge, the OpenMove headset offers six continuous hours of music, calls, and podcasts, making it perfect for extended riding sessions.
Features:
- Style
- In Ear
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth v5.1
- Battery Life
- 6 hours
- Water Resistance
- IP55
- Weight
- 1.02 oz
Scores:
- Design
- Features
- Comfort
- Value for Money
- Overall
Pros
- Superior sound quality
- Affordable
- Easy fit for most ear types
Cons
- Slightly uncomfortable hook design
If you’re a fan of outdoor adventures like mountain biking or jogging, then the PURERINA Bone Conduction Headphones are a must-have for you!
These headphones use Bluetooth 5.0 to connect to your device, and they feature an open-ear design that lets you enjoy your favorite tunes while still being aware of your surroundings while out on the trails.
One of the best parts is that they’re incredibly comfortable, with a lightweight frame and soft silicone pads that make them easy to wear for long periods without any pain. Plus, these headphones are waterproof and dust-resistant, so they’re perfect for any rugged trail or intense workout.
You’ll get up to 6 hours of battery life, and the built-in microphone allows you to take hands-free calls. Overall, the PURERINA Bone Conduction Headphones are the perfect combination of safety and fun, making them an excellent choice for any mountain biker who wants to jam out while they ride.
At a glance
The PURERINA Bone Conduction Bluetooth 5.0 Sports Headphones deliver high-quality sound while being super lightweight and durable, making them the perfect choice for mountain bikers who prioritize weight over style.
If you’re a fan of outdoor adventures like mountain biking or jogging, then the PURERINA Bone Conduction Headphones are a must-have for you!
These headphones use Bluetooth 5.0 to connect to your device, and they feature an open-ear design that lets you enjoy your favorite tunes while still being aware of your surroundings while out on the trails.
One of the best parts is that they’re incredibly comfortable, with a lightweight frame and soft silicone pads that make them easy to wear for long periods without any pain. Plus, these headphones are waterproof and dust-resistant, so they’re perfect for any rugged trail or intense workout.
You’ll get up to 6 hours of battery life, and the built-in microphone allows you to take hands-free calls. Overall, the PURERINA Bone Conduction Headphones are the perfect combination of safety and fun, making them an excellent choice for any mountain biker who wants to jam out while they ride.
Features:
- Style
- Open Ear
- Connectivity
- Wireless
- Battery Life
- 6 hours
- Water Resistance
- IP55
- Weight
- 1.06 oz
Scores:
- Design
- Features
- Comfort
- Value for Money
- Overall
Pros
- Super lightweight
- Full charge in 60 minutes
- High-quality sounds and superior fit
Cons
- Some might riders might find them uncomfortable if used on longer rides.
Indulge in a supreme auditory experience with the Apple AirPods! These earbuds boast an exceptional attribute known as Personalized Spatial Audio, which gives you a sensation that the sound is encompassing you from all directions.
Moreover, they are designed to fit snugly in your ears, providing you with an unyielding grip even during high-intensity activities like mountain biking. You can also effortlessly control your music and answer phone calls without removing them, adding to the convenience while you’re out on the trails.
The earbuds are also resistant to sweat and water, making them an ideal choice for mountain bikers and cyclists. The case they come in is both sturdy and lightweight, ensuring that your AirPods are well-protected and easy to carry around or pop in your pocket while mountain biking.
With a listening time of up to 6 hours and a total listening time of 30 hours, you can enjoy your favorite tunes on long rides or just on the move.
At a glance
The AirPods 3 are a newer version of wireless earbuds with improved sound quality and extra features like spatial audio. They are perfect for people like me who enjoy mountain biking but also need to take phone calls while riding. However, they are a bit expensive compared to other earbuds with noise-canceling technology.
Indulge in a supreme auditory experience with the Apple AirPods! These earbuds boast an exceptional attribute known as Personalized Spatial Audio, which gives you a sensation that the sound is encompassing you from all directions.
Moreover, they are designed to fit snugly in your ears, providing you with an unyielding grip even during high-intensity activities like mountain biking. You can also effortlessly control your music and answer phone calls without removing them, adding to the convenience while you’re out on the trails.
The earbuds are also resistant to sweat and water, making them an ideal choice for mountain bikers and cyclists. The case they come in is both sturdy and lightweight, ensuring that your AirPods are well-protected and easy to carry around or pop in your pocket while mountain biking.
With a listening time of up to 6 hours and a total listening time of 30 hours, you can enjoy your favorite tunes on long rides or just on the move.
Features:
- Style
- In Ear
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth
- Battery Life
- Up to 30 hours
- Water Resistance
- IPX4
- Weight
- 0.15 oz
Scores:
- Design
- Features
- Comfort
- Value for Money
- Overall
Pros
- Ultra compact and super lightweight
- World’s most reputable brand
- Battery life has been extended to 6 hours
Cons
- Open design lets in outside noise
The Otium Headphones have been equipped with the latest Bluetooth 5.3 technology, a significant upgrade from its previous version. The acoustic components have also been improved, resulting in exceptional sound quality, most noticeable when riding.
The brand has made another significant update by changing the Bluetooth name from “Otium” to “U18.” This change will make it more convenient for users to easily search and connect their headphones.
Designed for comfort and stability, the Otium Headphones come with ergonomic design and silicone ear hooks that keep the earbuds securely in place even on the most rugged trails. This feature is super convenient for those who engage in rigorous activities, such as mountain biking, where headphones tend to fall off easily.
In addition to comfort and stability, Otium has upgraded its Waterproof Rating, which now provides 100% protection against splashing water and rain. This means users can enjoy their music without worrying about water damage.
The lithium polymer battery in these headphones has also been improved, allowing seamless enjoyment of music for up to 16 hours and 240 hours of standby time with just 1.5 hours of charging. The neckband design is another added feature that prevents troublesome wires from tangling during your ride, giving you a hassle-free listening experience.
At a glance
If you’re on a limited budget but still want top-quality and durable headphones, look no further than the amazing Ostium headphones! They’re the perfect choice for mountain bikers who demand the best without breaking the bank.
The Otium Headphones have been equipped with the latest Bluetooth 5.3 technology, a significant upgrade from its previous version. The acoustic components have also been improved, resulting in exceptional sound quality, most noticeable when riding.
The brand has made another significant update by changing the Bluetooth name from “Otium” to “U18.” This change will make it more convenient for users to easily search and connect their headphones.
Designed for comfort and stability, the Otium Headphones come with ergonomic design and silicone ear hooks that keep the earbuds securely in place even on the most rugged trails. This feature is super convenient for those who engage in rigorous activities, such as mountain biking, where headphones tend to fall off easily.
In addition to comfort and stability, Otium has upgraded its Waterproof Rating, which now provides 100% protection against splashing water and rain. This means users can enjoy their music without worrying about water damage.
The lithium polymer battery in these headphones has also been improved, allowing seamless enjoyment of music for up to 16 hours and 240 hours of standby time with just 1.5 hours of charging. The neckband design is another added feature that prevents troublesome wires from tangling during your ride, giving you a hassle-free listening experience.
Features:
- Style
- In Ear
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth 5.3
- Battery Life
- 16 hours
- Water Resistance
- IPX7
- Weight
- 0.64 oz
Scores:
- Design
- Features
- Comfort
- Value for Money
- Overall
Pros
- 90-minute full charge time
- Secure ear hook for superior comfort
- Seamless Bluetooth connectivity
Cons
- Design is slightly outdated
Although the WF-1000XM4 headphones have been available for some time, they have undergone a complete overhaul. The Integrated Processor V1 is a new driver that Sony has specifically created to eliminate more noise than ever before, making it an ideal option for mountain bikers who demand only the best.
Thanks to Sony’s cutting-edge technology, your headphones can automatically connect to the right device when a call comes in and can be switched between two devices with the touch of a button.
Constantly out for long rides on the trail? These Sony WF-1000XM4 headphones give you 24 hours of listening time, 8 hours from the headphones, and 16 hours from the case. Even if you’re in a hurry, a 5-minute charge provides 60 minutes of playtime.
Don’t worry about getting your Sony headphones wet or sweaty while riding. With an IPX4 water resistance rating, these headphones can handle splashes and sweat, allowing you to keep riding to the music.
At a glance
For mountain bikers seeking audio and noise-canceling performance over calling features, the Sony WF-1000XM4 headphones offer a superior alternative to heavy-hitting rivals like the AirPods Pro and QuietComfort Earbuds.
Although the WF-1000XM4 headphones have been available for some time, they have undergone a complete overhaul. The Integrated Processor V1 is a new driver that Sony has specifically created to eliminate more noise than ever before, making it an ideal option for mountain bikers who demand only the best.
Thanks to Sony’s cutting-edge technology, your headphones can automatically connect to the right device when a call comes in and can be switched between two devices with the touch of a button.
Constantly out for long rides on the trail? These Sony WF-1000XM4 headphones give you 24 hours of listening time, 8 hours from the headphones, and 16 hours from the case. Even if you’re in a hurry, a 5-minute charge provides 60 minutes of playtime.
Don’t worry about getting your Sony headphones wet or sweaty while riding. With an IPX4 water resistance rating, these headphones can handle splashes and sweat, allowing you to keep riding to the music.
Features:
- Style
- In Ear
- Connectivity
- USB, Bluetooth 5.2
- Battery Life
- 8 hours
- Water Resistance
- IPX4
- Weight
- 1.45 oz
Scores:
- Design
- Features
- Comfort
- Value for Money
- Overall
Pros
- Exceptional sound quality
- World-renowned brand
- Long battery life
Cons
- Call quality is not great
Our Top Tips For Choosing The Best Mountain Bike Headphones
As a savvy consumer, you want to make sure you’re investing your money wisely when purchasing a set of mountain bike headphones. To ensure that you’re getting the best value for your hard-earned cash, it’s essential to research and consider the unique features and qualities that set each brand apart.
Here are five key factors to keep in mind when shopping for your next pair of mountain bike headphones.
1. High-Quality Sound
When you’re looking for earbuds to use while mountain biking, it’s really important to consider how well they’ll let you hear your music. The sounds around you on the trail can make it hard to hear, so you want to choose earbuds that can make your music loud and clear.
That said, its best to avoid earbuds that block out all the sounds around you because you need to be aware of what’s happening while you’re mountain biking. If you can’t hear what’s happening, it can be dangerous, and you are much more likely to have an accident, the last thing any mountain biker wants.
So it’s best to pick earbuds that let you hear what’s happening around you but still make your music sound great.
2. Durability and Build Quality
When searching for the perfect headphones for mountain biking, ensuring they can handle the demands of your regular trails is essential. This includes being able to withstand possible bumps and drops, as well as exposure to various weather conditions.
To ensure the durability of your headphones, consider materials such as strengthened cables, sturdy housings, and overall strong build quality. These features will provide peace of mind and a long-lasting investment in your cycling equipment.
3. Water Resistance
When mountain biking, it’s important to choose headphones that are resistant to water and sweat. Look for headphones with a rating of at least IPX4 to ensure they can handle sweat and water.
For even better protection, choose headphones with higher ratings, like IPX6 or IPX7. This way, you don’t have to worry about your headphones getting damaged, even in heavy rain, or if they get dunked in water.
4. Battery
If you’re an avid mountain biker, you know that you’ll be spending a significant amount of time on the road. That said, it’s important to have headphones that can keep up with your rides.
Look for a pair with a battery life that can last for at least 6 to 8 hours on a single charge. You don’t want to run out of juice in the middle of your ride. It’s also worth considering headphones that have quick charging capabilities. By utilizing the latest technology, it’s now possible to enjoy hours of uninterrupted music playback with only a short charging time.
This means that you can take a cycling break without having to worry about not having access to your favorite tunes. With this innovative solution, you can ensure that you always have a reliable source of entertainment on your next trail adventure.
5. Connectivity
As an avid mountain biker, there’s nothing worse than dealing with tangled cords while riding; not only is it annoying and incredibly unsafe too. To avoid such distractions and ensure a seamless ride, you should go for wireless or true wireless headphones.
Bluetooth connectivity is a key feature to consider, as it should offer a steady connection without any audio glitches and interference. It’s best to look for headphones with Bluetooth 5.0 or later, as they provide improved range, reduced latency, and more efficient power consumption.
Opting for such headphones will enhance your overall mountain biking experience and make it more enjoyable.
That’s A Wrap
When it comes to purchasing headphones, it’s important to carefully evaluate your options. This holds especially true for those planning to use them while mountain biking.
To ensure you make the best possible choice, you’ll want to consider a range of features, including sound quality, connectivity, and water resistance.
By taking the time to assess these factors and answer any relevant questions, you’ll be able to choose the ideal set of headphones to enhance your mountain biking adventures and make your rides more enjoyable than ever before.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you mountain bike with headphones on?
If you’re taking a relatively easy path, then it should be safe to wear your earbuds during the ride. However, it’s always a good idea to stay aware of your surroundings and be prepared to remove your earbuds if necessary. It’s better to err on the side of caution and prioritize your safety while enjoying your ride.
Is it illegal to ride a bike with headphones in the UK?
Using earphones to listen to music while cycling on public roads can be potentially hazardous as it may divert your attention from your surroundings. Although no laws prohibit the use of earphones while cycling on public roads, it is highly recommended to refrain from doing so to prioritize your safety and remain fully aware of your surroundings.
What is the difference between shocks and AfterShokz headphones?
Aftershokz, a company that debuted bone-conduction headphones in 2011, rebranded as Shokz after a decade in the industry. Essentially, Shokz is the same as Aftershokz.
