Best Skullcandy Headphones for Working Out: Top Picks

1. Skullcandy Crusher Anc 2 Wireless Over-Ear

When we put the Crusher ANC 2 through its paces for workouts, the standout feature was undoubtedly the Adjustable Sensory Bass. It’s genuinely impressive how you can dial up the low-end rumble to feel the music in your chest during intense cardio. The active noise cancellation is also quite effective at drowning out gym chatter, allowing for better focus.

However, the earcups, while comfortable for shorter sessions, started to feel a bit warm after about an hour of strenuous activity. This could be a minor annoyance for those who prefer longer, uninterrupted training periods. The overall build feels solid, but the plastic finish does attract fingerprints quite readily.

This model is ideal for the gym-goer who prioritizes deep bass and noise isolation above all else. If you find yourself distracted by ambient noise or need that extra sonic push to get through a tough set, the Crusher ANC 2 delivers. It’s not for the runner who needs to stay acutely aware of their surroundings, as the ANC can be quite isolating.

2. Skullcandy Hesh 360 Wireless Over-Ear

The Hesh 360 offers a balanced audio profile that works well for a variety of workout routines. During our testing, the sound reproduction was clear, with a decent amount of punch in the mids and highs, which is great for motivational tracks. The headphones are surprisingly lightweight, making them comfortable for longer wear without causing undue pressure.

My main critique here is with the physical controls. The buttons are quite small and have a slightly mushy feel, which can make it difficult to adjust volume or skip tracks without looking, especially when your hands are sweaty. The headband, while padded, could offer a bit more grip to prevent slippage during dynamic movements.

This is a solid choice for someone who enjoys a straightforward, reliable listening experience for their gym sessions. If you’re not chasing the absolute deepest bass or the most advanced ANC, the Hesh 360 provides a good all-around performance. However, if you need intuitive, easy-to-find controls during your workout, you might want to look elsewhere.

3. Skullcandy Ear Buds Wireless Earbuds Bluetooth Headphones with 80h Playtime LED

These wireless earbuds impressed us with their sheer endurance, boasting an impressive 80-hour playtime which is fantastic for anyone who forgets to charge their gear regularly. For the best Skullcandy headphones for working out, these offer a convenient, wire-free experience that doesn’t break the bank. The sound quality is surprisingly robust for their size, delivering a satisfying audio experience during my runs.

The fit, while generally secure with the included ear tips, did require occasional readjustment during particularly intense interval training. I found the charging case, though functional, to be a bit bulkier than some competitors, making it less pocket-friendly. The LED display indicating battery life is a nice touch, though it can be a little dim in bright sunlight.

These are perfect for the budget-conscious athlete or the person who wants a reliable backup pair of earbuds that will last for days. If you’re a casual gym-goer or a runner who values long battery life and a secure, albeit sometimes fiddly, fit, these are a strong contender. However, if you demand a perfect, stay-put fit during extreme agility drills, you might need to explore options with wingtips or a more specialized design.

4. Skullcandy Icon Anc Wireless on-Ear

The Icon ANC brings active noise cancellation to a more accessible on-ear form factor, which is a welcome feature for focused workouts. We noticed the ANC effectively filters out consistent background hums, like those found in many commercial gyms, allowing the music to take center stage. The on-ear design is generally comfortable, providing a good seal without excessive clamping force.

However, I found that during very vigorous movements, the on-ear cups could shift slightly, necessitating a quick repositioning. The plastic construction, while contributing to their lightness, feels a bit less premium than some other options, and the touch controls can be a little too sensitive, leading to accidental skips or pauses when adjusting the fit.

This model is well-suited for individuals who prefer an on-ear design and want to block out ambient noise without committing to over-ear headphones. If your workouts involve moderate activity and you value the ability to tune out distractions, these are a good fit. Avoid these if you engage in high-impact activities where ear cup slippage is a concern, or if you prefer tactile button controls.

5. Skullcandy Push Play Active Wireless Earbuds, Bluetooth Headphones, Noise Isolating Fit

The Push Play Active earbuds deliver a secure fit, which is paramount for any workout gear, and they generally live up to that promise. During our tests, the earbuds stayed put through a variety of exercises, from jogging to bodyweight circuits. The noise-isolating design is also quite effective at creating a personal audio bubble, which enhances the workout experience significantly.

While the fit is good, the sound profile leans heavily on the bass, which might be overpowering for some listeners who prefer a more balanced output. I also found the touch controls to be a bit finicky; they often required a very precise tap, and I sometimes triggered them unintentionally when simply trying to adjust the earbuds. The included charging case feels a little flimsy.

These are an excellent choice for anyone who struggles with earbuds falling out during exercise. If your primary concern is a secure fit and you enjoy a bass-forward sound signature, the Push Play Active is worth considering. However, if you’re sensitive to overly boomy bass or prefer intuitive, easy-to-use controls, you might find them frustrating.

6. Skullcandy Icon 180 Wireless on-Ear

We put the Skullcandy Icon 180 Wireless On to the test for our workout routine, and while they offer a decent listening experience, they fall a bit short for intense physical activity. The sound quality is generally clear, with a slight emphasis on bass that many workout enthusiasts appreciate. They connect reliably via Bluetooth, which is a plus when you’re on the move and don’t want interruptions.

However, I found the fit to be less than ideal for vigorous exercise. The earcups, while padded, didn’t provide a secure enough seal for my liking when doing jumping jacks or running. They tended to shift slightly, requiring occasional readjustment. This can be a real distraction when you’re trying to focus on your reps.

The controls are located on the earcup, and while accessible, they can be a little fiddly to locate by feel alone, especially with sweaty hands. The overall build feels a bit lightweight, which might be good for comfort but raises some questions about long-term durability during rougher gym sessions.

This product is best suited for someone who enjoys listening to music or podcasts during lighter workouts like walking or casual cycling, where the earcups are less likely to dislodge. If your workouts involve a lot of head movement or impact, you might want to consider other options.

7. Skullcandy Push Active Wireless Earbuds, Bluetooth Headphones, Noise Isolating, 44 Hrs

When searching for the best Skullcandy headphones for working out, the Push Active Wireless Earbuds definitely caught our attention. We found the secure-fit ear hooks to be a standout feature, providing a confidence-inspiring hold even during high-impact movements. The sound profile is energetic, with a punchy bass that really motivates during a tough session. Battery life is also impressive, easily lasting through multiple workouts before needing a recharge.

The noise-isolating design does a good job of blocking out ambient gym noise, allowing you to immerse yourself in your music or podcast. I particularly appreciated how well they stayed in place during my runs; I didn’t have to constantly push them back in. The IPX4 rating also means you don’t have to worry about sweat or light rain damaging them.

One minor annoyance I encountered was the touch controls. While responsive, they can sometimes be accidentally triggered when adjusting the earbuds. This led to a few unintended pauses or track skips. It’s a common issue with touch controls, but still something to be aware of.

These are an excellent choice for anyone who needs earbuds that will stay put no matter how intense their workout gets. If you’re a runner, HIIT enthusiast, or engage in any activity with significant movement, the Push Active should be high on your list. Those who are very sensitive to accidental touch activations might want to be extra cautious with their adjustments.

8. Skullcandy Method 360 Anc Wireless Earbuds, Sound by Bose, Bluetooth Headphones

We tested the Skullcandy Method 360 ANC Wireless Earbuds, and while the “Sound by Bose” branding sets high expectations, our experience was a bit mixed for workout use. The active noise cancellation (ANC) is surprisingly effective for earbuds at this price point, creating a quiet backdrop for your music. The sound quality itself is balanced, leaning towards clarity rather than overwhelming bass, which some might prefer for focused workouts.

However, the fit, while generally comfortable for casual listening, didn’t feel as secure as some other dedicated workout earbuds we’ve tried. During more dynamic movements, I noticed a slight tendency for them to loosen up, requiring a gentle push back into place. This is a crucial factor when you’re pushing your limits and don’t want distractions.

The charging case is compact and feels robust, which is a definite plus. The Bluetooth connectivity was stable throughout our testing. The ANC is the highlight here, making them great for commutes or noisy environments outside of the gym, but its effectiveness for very loud gym environments is somewhat diminished by the less-than-perfect fit during intense activity.

These earbuds are ideal for individuals who prioritize active noise cancellation and a balanced sound profile for moderate exercise or daily commutes. If your workouts are primarily stationary or low-impact, they perform well. However, serious athletes who require a rock-solid fit during high-intensity training might find them lacking in that specific area.

9. Skullcandy Push Anc Active Wireless Earbuds, Bluetooth Headphones, Noise Cancelling, 58

The Skullcandy Push ANC Active Wireless Earbuds promise a lot, especially with their noise-cancelling capabilities and extended battery life. We found the ANC to be quite effective at reducing low-frequency hums, making them pleasant for focused listening. The sound signature is typical Skullcandy – energetic with a noticeable bass boost that can really drive a workout. The 58-hour battery claim is impressive, meaning you’ll rarely have to worry about charging.

However, like many earbuds with ANC, the seal is critical for optimal performance, and we found the fit on the Push ANC to be only moderately secure for intense workouts. During my runs, I experienced a slight slippage, necessitating occasional adjustments. This minor instability can be a distraction when you’re really pushing yourself.

The ear hooks provide some stability, but they don’t offer the same tenacious grip as some other sport-specific designs. The buttons on the earbuds are tactile and easy to find, which is a definite plus when you’re not looking. The overall build quality feels solid, suggesting they can withstand the rigors of regular gym use.

These earbuds are a solid option for those who want good noise cancellation and long battery life for their workouts, especially if they engage in activities that aren’t excessively jarring. If you’re a runner or do a lot of plyometrics, you might want to double-check the fit for your specific ear shape, as a perfect seal is crucial for both sound and stability.

10. Skullcandy Push 540 Open Wireless Open-Ear

We tested the Skullcandy Push 540 Open Wireless Earbuds, and their open-ear design is a significant departure from traditional earbuds, offering a unique approach to workout audio. The primary benefit here is situational awareness; you can hear your surroundings clearly, which is excellent for outdoor running or cycling in traffic. The sound quality is surprisingly decent for an open-ear design, with a clear mid-range and a passable bass, though it won’t satisfy bassheads.

The comfort is a major win; the lightweight design and open fit mean you barely feel them in your ears, even after extended periods. This makes them ideal for long training sessions where ear fatigue can be an issue. However, the open design inherently means less noise isolation, so if you’re looking to block out gym chatter or traffic noise, these are not the solution.

I found the controls to be intuitive and easy to operate by feel. The battery life is adequate for most workouts, though not as extensive as some sealed earbuds. The main drawback for some will be the sound leakage; at higher volumes, others nearby might be able to hear your music, which can be awkward in shared spaces.

These earbuds are perfect for runners, cyclists, or anyone who prioritizes safety and awareness during outdoor activities. They are also great for those who dislike the feeling of earbuds being jammed in their ears. However, if you crave deep bass, absolute silence, or listen to music in quiet public spaces, you should look elsewhere.