Standard Vs Noise-Canceling Running Headphones
If you go out to buy yourself a brand new pair of running headphones, you will have a lot of choices between different features. Of course you would expect to choose the style: Earbud or neck band? Single-wire or wireless? Green or blue? These are almost all choices based on personal preference.
But one decision you may not anticipate needing to make is that between standard running headphones and those with noise-cancelling technology. Here is a run-down of the pros and cons of opting for the noise-cancelling headphones. Hopefully this helps you make the best decision for you.
PROs of noise-cancelling running headphones:
Help reduce unwanted background noise. (If outside: construction, interstate traffic, etc. If inside: obnoxious fitness club music, people talking too loud next to you, noisy treadmills, etc.)
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Healthy for your ears. With lower background noise, you can keep your volume lower to hear it. With earphones so close to your ear, the lower your volume, the less damage you do to your eardrum and inner ear.
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Prolonged battery life. Having your volume turned up the whole time to drown out noise will drain your battery. keeping a lower level lets it last longer.
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CONs of noise-cancelling running headphones:
Expensive. Noise cancelling technology is often much more expensive than regular headphones. If you just want to hear your music and aren't picky about sound quality, it may not be worth the investment.
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Inconsistent. Some noise-cancelling headphones work better than others. If you're going to spend the money, read reviews before you buy to make sure you're getting a pair that actually makes a difference.
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Safety. If you are running outside and the noise-cancelling running headphones really do work, you will not have as much information about your surroundings. Many competitive runs outlaw headphones for this reason. If you do get these headphones, be extra careful so you are aware of oncoming traffic.
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These three pros and three cons are just an introduction to noise-cancelling headphones. Whether or not you choose to buy them depends on where you plan to use them and what purpose you want your headphones to serve. And, of course your budget.