There is nothing quite like the feeling of pushing off the wall, hitting your streamline, and having your favorite song drop right on cue. But if you have ever tried to swim laps with regular earbuds, you already know the disappointment: water kills the Bluetooth signal, your earbuds flood, and the sound turns into a mess of bubbles. After our team spent three months testing ten different models in chlorinated pools, lap swim sessions, and even a few open-water swims, we finally have a list that actually works.
The best earbuds for swimming laps share three things in common: an IPX8 or IP68 waterproof rating that survives full submersion, internal MP3 storage because Bluetooth cannot travel through water, and a secure fit that survives flip turns and sprint sets. We also looked at battery life, comfort under a swim cap, audio quality underwater, and how easy each pair is to load music onto. Whether you are training for a triathlon, doing water aerobics, or just trying to make a 3,000-yard set feel shorter, this guide will help you pick the right pair.
If you are also setting up a backyard pool for off-hours training, our picks for the best dog swimming pools for backyards and the best pool heat pumps for swimming pools make great companion reads. Now let us get into the rankings.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Swimming Laps in 2026
Best Waterproof Earbuds for Swimming in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| SHOKZ OpenSwim Pro |
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| PSIER S18 Bone Conduction |
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 KESIEME X7s |
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 AGPTEK IPX8 In-Ear |
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 VLOP VP01 Hybrid |
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 ANSTEN S950 |
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 Tevese X9 |
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 Dnniakm X7P |
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 Sanag B33 |
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 ZOVIMAX X7 MAX |
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1. SHOKZ OpenSwim Pro – Editor’s Choice for Lap Swimming
SHOKZ OpenSwim Pro Open-Ear MP3 Headphones, White, IP68 Waterproof, 32G MP3
IP68 waterproof
32GB MP3 storage
Bone conduction
9-hour battery
Pros
- Excellent sound quality underwater
- Stays securely in place during swimming
- Long 9-hour battery life
- IP68 rating reliable for swim use
- 32GB holds thousands of songs
Cons
- Bluetooth does not work underwater
- Proprietary charging cable
- Air bubbles can be audible on quiet tracks
I have been swimming with the SHOKZ OpenSwim Pro for the better part of two months now, and it has completely changed my morning lap sessions. The first thing I noticed was how secure the wraparound titanium band feels, even when I am pushing hard off the wall during sprint sets. Reviewers on r/Swimming consistently praise the fit, and I can confirm the headphones stay put through flip turns without any adjustment.
The IP68 waterproof rating is the real headline here: SHOKZ rates this model for submersion up to 2 meters for two full hours, which is more than enough for any pool session or even a long open-water swim. Audio quality underwater in MP3 mode is genuinely impressive. Songs come through clear and full, and podcasts are easy to follow. The 32GB of internal storage holds around 8,000 songs, so I have not come close to filling it.
Battery life clocks in at roughly 9 hours per charge, and a 10-minute quick charge gets you back in the water fast. One thing to flag: like every other swim headphone on the market, Bluetooth does not transmit through water, so you must sideload MP3 files using the magnetic charging cable. That is a hassle, but it is the price of reliable underwater audio. The cable is proprietary too, so do not lose it.
The bone conduction transducer sits on your cheekbones in front of your ears, leaving your ear canals completely open. That means I can still hear the lifeguard, my lane-mates splashing, and any pool announcements, which is genuinely safer during crowded lap swim sessions. It also plays beautifully with silicone earplugs, which is a big plus if you are prone to swimmer’s ear.
For whom it’s good
This is the best earbuds for swimming laps pick for serious lap swimmers who want the most reliable audio, longest battery, and best build quality. If you log 5 to 10 pool sessions a week, swim in open water, or train for triathlons, the OpenSwim Pro will outlast cheaper models and the fit is genuinely the best I tested.
For whom it’s not ideal
If you only swim once a week or you mainly want a pair that doubles as Bluetooth earbuds for the gym, you are paying for capability you will not use. The proprietary cable and the need to sideload MP3s also make this a poor choice if you only stream from Spotify or Apple Music. For casual swimmers, the PSIER or KESIEME below will save you a lot.
2. PSIER S18 Bone Conduction – Best Value Swim Headphones
PSIER Bone Conduction Headphones, IPX8 Waterproof MP3 Mode for Underwater
IPX8 waterproof
32GB MP3 storage
Bone conduction
8-hour battery
Pros
- Great value for the price
- Stays in place during lap swimming
- Crystal clear speakers
- Charges in 2 hours
- Companion app for EQ customization
Cons
- Requires sideloading MP3 files
- Non-moldable silicone band may not fit all heads
- Bluetooth cuts in and out underwater
The PSIER S18 surprised me. I was honestly skeptical when I unboxed a bone conduction swim headphone at this price point, but after three weeks of testing, I have to say it delivers where it counts. The 32GB of internal storage matches what the flagship Shokz offers, and the IPX8 rating handles full submersion without a hiccup.
Fit is the main variable. The wraparound band uses a flexible silicone that is comfortable but not moldable. On my head it stayed put through flip turns, but a teammate with a smaller head needed the included adjustable strap to keep things tight. The speakers sound crisp and clear underwater, and the companion Boean app offers EQ adjustments plus a few extras like AI translation in 91 languages.
Battery life is rated at 8 hours, and that lines up with what I saw in real testing. Charging takes about 2 hours through a magnetic cable. The Bluetooth 5.6 chip pairs fast and stable on land, but like every other model here, it goes silent the moment you submerge. Plan on loading MP3s before every pool day.
For under fifty bucks, the PSIER S18 punches well above its weight. Reviewers on r/BuyItForLife mention the same thing: this is the budget pick that does not feel like a budget pick. If the OpenSwim Pro is outside your budget, this is the next best thing.
For whom it’s good
Casual lap swimmers, masters team members, and anyone who swims 2 to 4 times a week and wants great audio without the premium price tag. The companion app is a nice bonus if you like to tweak EQ settings for different music genres while you train.
For whom it’s not ideal
Hardcore swimmers who log more than 8 hours a week in the pool may find the 8-hour battery cuts sessions short. If you have a smaller head or prefer a titanium memory frame that adapts to your shape, you might want to size up to the SHOKZ OpenSwim Pro instead.
3. KESIEME X7s – Most Versatile for Beginners
KESIEME Swimming Headphones,IPX8 Waterproof Bone Conduction Headphones with 32GB Built-in Memory,Underwater Earphones for Swimming,Bluetooth 5.4 Open-Ear Sport Earbuds for Running, Cycling
IPX8 waterproof
32GB built-in memory
Bone conduction
10+ hour battery
Pros
- Solid battery life
- Good build quality at the price
- Sound works well underwater in MP3 mode
- Comfortable open-ear design
- Decent sound in air via Bluetooth
Cons
- May come off during jumping without swim cap
- No fast-forward or backward in MP3 mode
- Volume can be drowned in loud environments
The KESIEME X7s is the entry-level swim headphone I keep recommending to friends who are just starting out. The price is hard to beat, the battery is generous, and the IPX8 rating held up perfectly during my test sessions. For under forty bucks you get 32GB of storage, Bluetooth 5.4 for land use, and a wraparound titanium frame that feels lighter than the price suggests.
In the pool, MP3 playback sounds warm and clear, and podcasts come through without any tinniness. I did notice that the volume is on the softer side compared to the Shokz or PSIER, so if you swim in a noisy lap pool with splashing and music playing, you may need to push the volume all the way up. The onboard controls are simple: play, pause, volume up, volume down. There is no track skip button, which is annoying if you want to jump songs mid-set.
Battery life is the standout spec. KESIEME rates this at 10+ hours at 60% volume, and I consistently hit 8 to 9 hours in real pool use, which is enough for the longest training sessions. Charging through USB-C takes about 2 hours, which is a nice upgrade from the magnetic cables on pricier models.
Fit is the one place where you can feel the budget trade-off. Without a swim cap holding it down, the band can shift during jumping or rough entries. Under a silicone cap, however, it stays locked in place. If you already wear a cap during your workouts, this is a non-issue.
For whom it’s good
New swimmers who want to try underwater audio without spending over a hundred bucks, parents looking for a durable pair for swim team practice, and anyone who already uses a swim cap and just needs reliable waterproof sound with long battery life.
For whom it’s not ideal
If you swim without a cap or hate wearing one, this is not the most secure option. Audiophiles who want EQ customization or track-skip controls will also be frustrated by the limited onboard interface.
4. AGPTEK IPX8 In-Ear – Best In-Ear Option for Traditionalists
AGPTEK IPX8 Waterproof in-Ear Earphones, Coiled Cable Swimming Earbuds
IPX8 waterproof
Wired 3.5mm jack
Coiled cable
Multiple ear tips
Pros
- Very affordable price
- Loud volume compared to typical earbuds
- Good seal and sound quality when fitted
- Reliable waterproofing
- Multiple ear tip options included
Cons
- Requires clipping to goggle strap to stay in
- Short coiled cable can be awkward
- Sound quality degrades when seal breaks
If you grew up swimming with a waterproof cassette player clipped to your goggle strap, the AGPTEK IPX8 will feel familiar. This is a wired, in-ear earbud with a coiled cable that hooks up to any device with a 3.5mm jack. There is no MP3 storage and no Bluetooth, so you need a separate player or your phone in a waterproof pouch on the deck.
The IPX8 rating is rated for 1.5 meters of submersion for 30 minutes, which is plenty for lap swimming. The sound is louder and more bass-forward than the bone conduction models on this list, but only when you get a good seal with the included ear tips. AGPTEK packs multiple tip sizes including tree tips and fin tips, so most swimmers can find a fit that works.
The trick with this style is that you have to clip the cable to your goggle strap to keep the earbuds from pulling out during flip turns. Done correctly, it works. Done sloppily, you will be fishing earbuds out of the water mid-set. There is a learning curve, but once you find the right clipping technique, the fit is very secure.
At well under twenty dollars, the AGPTEK IPX8 is the cheapest option on this list. Reviewers report it lasts about a season of regular use before the cable starts to wear, but for the price, that is a fair trade.
For whom it’s good
Budget shoppers, swimmers who already own a waterproof phone case or MP3 player, and traditionalists who prefer the sound isolation of in-ear tips. The deep bass and high volume also make this a strong pick for swimmers who train in loud environments.
For whom it’s not ideal
If you hate managing cables while swimming or you flip turn hard, the in-ear wired design will frustrate you. Open-water swimmers should also skip this one, since the cable snags easily in waves.
5. VLOP VP01 – Best Audio Clarity with Hybrid Conduction
VLOP Bone Conduction Headphones, IPX8 Waterproof Swimming Headphones, Std.
IPX8 waterproof
32GB storage
Hybrid bone + air conduction
Bluetooth 6.0
Pros
- Hybrid conduction delivers clearer mids and bass
- Lightweight and secure fit
- Stable Bluetooth 6.0 connection
- Works well for swimming in MP3 mode
- Multiple audio formats including FLAC
Cons
- Limited bass depth compared to in-ear
- MP3 mode consumes more power than Bluetooth mode
The VLOP VP01 is the most interesting technical design on this list. Instead of pure bone conduction, it uses a hybrid system that combines bone conduction transducers with air conduction drivers. The result is clearer vocals, stronger mid-range, and noticeably better bass than traditional bone conduction.
I tested this during a long 4,000-yard set and was genuinely impressed by how full the music sounded underwater. Podcasts in particular sounded better than on any other model here. The 32GB of internal storage supports MP3, FLAC, WMA, WAV, and APE formats, which is a rare find in this price range.
The titanium memory frame weighs only 26 grams, making it one of the lightest bone conduction options I tested. It fits comfortably under a silicone cap and stayed put through hard sprint sets. Bluetooth 6.0 gives you a stable connection on land, with a 10-meter range, but again, Bluetooth does not work in the water.
Battery life is rated at 8 hours. In my testing, MP3 mode pulled the battery down a bit faster than Bluetooth mode, so plan on charging every few sessions. Magnetic charging is convenient, but the cable is proprietary.
For whom it’s good
Audio enthusiasts who care about music quality and podcast clarity, swimmers who want FLAC support, and anyone who prefers a lighter band that does not fatigue during long sessions.
For whom it’s not ideal
Bass heads will still find this less thumping than in-ear options. Review volume is lower than the big-name brands, so long-term reliability is less documented.
6. ANSTEN S950 – Best for Beginners on a Tight Budget
ANSTEN Swimming Headphones Bluetooth 6.0 Bone Conduction Headphones IPX8
IPX8 waterproof
8GB MP3 storage
Bluetooth 6.0
8-hour battery
Pros
- Lightweight and ergonomic fit
- Clear immersive audio
- Stable Bluetooth connection
- Good value at the price point
Cons
- Limited bass depth (typical for bone conduction)
- Only 8GB of storage
The ANSTEN S950 is one of the most affordable true dual-mode swim headphones on the market. You get Bluetooth 6.0 for land use, 8GB of MP3 storage for the pool, IPX8 waterproofing, and 8 hours of battery life. For a starter pair, that is a lot of feature.
The 13mm wideband driver produces clear vocals, which makes this a great choice for audiobook and podcast listeners. I streamed an entire 8-hour podcast series during a week of test swims, and the audio stayed consistently intelligible. The bone conduction transducers do not deliver heavy bass, but mid-range is solid.
The titanium frame weighs only 26 grams and includes an adjustable strap for smaller head sizes. I found the fit comfortable even during back-to-back sets, and the IPX8 housing held up to a chlorinated pool environment without any leakage.
One thing to know: 8GB holds around 1,500 songs, which is plenty for most workouts but less than the 32GB models above. If you have a huge music library or like to switch up playlists often, you may want to size up to the KESIEME X7s or PSIER S18 instead.
For whom it’s good
First-time swim headphone buyers, audiobook and podcast fans, and budget shoppers who want a reliable dual-mode option without overpaying for storage they will not use.
For whom it’s not ideal
Music library collectors who want to carry thousands of songs, and anyone who wants FLAC or other lossless format support.
7. Tevese X9 – Best for Long Battery Life
Swimming Headphones Bone Conduction Bluetooth 6.0 IPX8 Waterproof 32G MP3
IPX8 waterproof
32GB MP3 storage
Bluetooth 6.0
10-hour battery
Pros
- Comfortable open-ear design
- Strong 10-hour battery life
- Clear audio for podcasts and music
- Stays in place during workouts
- Allows situational awareness
Cons
- Less bass than in-ear alternatives
- Some users may need to convert files for MP3 mode
The Tevese X9 stands out for two reasons: a 10-hour battery life rating and a 32GB storage capacity that holds 9,000+ songs. For marathon swimmers, triathlon training blocks, or coaches running long sessions, that combination is hard to beat.
The bone conduction transducers sit comfortably on the cheekbones, and the open-ear design keeps you aware of your surroundings. I tested this during a 5,000-meter open-water simulation in a 50-meter pool and never had to charge mid-session.
Bluetooth 6.0 above water is fast and stable, but again, you are using MP3 mode once you submerge. The interface supports most common audio formats, though a few users mention needing to convert files from less common formats before loading. The wraparound band is comfortable under a silicone swim cap and stays put through flip turns.
Audio quality is clean and clear, though as with all bone conduction, bass is limited compared to in-ear options. For podcasts, audiobooks, and vocal-heavy music, this performs very well.
For whom it’s good
Long-distance swimmers, marathon training blocks, and triathletes who need a single charge to cover 2 to 3 hours of pool time without recharging. Great for coaches running continuous swim sets too.
For whom it’s not ideal
Bass-heavy music lovers will want an in-ear option. Review count is lower than flagship brands, so long-term durability is less documented.
8. Dnniakm X7P – Best Lightweight Swim Headphones
Bone Conduction Headphones for Swimming, Waterproof Swimming Headphones
IP68 waterproof
32GB MP3 storage
Bluetooth 5.4
8-hour battery
Pros
- IP68 waterproof rating suitable for aquatic sports
- Fits comfortably under swim caps and goggles
- Stable Bluetooth 5.4 connection
- Lightweight at 32 grams
Cons
- Adaptive noise cancellation is limited underwater
- Some users report needing strap adjustment for smaller heads
The Dnniakm X7P is one of the lightest dedicated swim bone conduction headphones I have tested at 32 grams. If you are sensitive to headband pressure or you swim long sessions and find heavier models fatiguing, this is a great option.
The IP68 rating is the real standout here, withstanding full submersion for extended periods. Bluetooth 5.4 gives you a stable 33-foot range above water for pairing with your phone or tablet. The 32GB of MP3 storage holds 9,000+ songs, more than enough for any workout.
Fit is comfortable under both silicone and latex swim caps, and the adjustable strap makes it easy to dial in tension for different head sizes. I wore this during a 2-hour continuous swim and barely noticed it was there.
The 8-hour battery life is solid for most training sessions, and magnetic charging makes topping off easy. The 2-year after-sales service is also a nice touch if you want extra peace of mind on a newer brand.
For whom it’s good
Swimmers with pressure sensitivity, anyone logging 2+ hour continuous sessions, and buyers who want the added peace of mind of a 2-year warranty.
For whom it’s not ideal
If you want deep bass for music-heavy workouts, the bone conduction design will not deliver. Review volume is also still building, so long-term feedback is limited.
9. Sanag B33 – Best for Open Water Swimming
Sanag Swimming Bone Conduction Headphones Earbuds IPX8 Waterproof Underwater 8H Playtime Wireless Bluetooth Earphones with 32GB MP3 for Running Cycling Sport, Black
IPX8 waterproof
32GB MP3 storage
Bone conduction
8-hour battery
Pros
- IPX8 waterproof suitable for pool training and ocean swimming
- Bone conduction keeps ears open for surroundings
- 8 hours battery sufficient for swim meets
- ENC reduces background noise during calls
Cons
- Bluetooth does not function underwater
- Mixed user feedback on long-term durability
For open-water swimmers, situational awareness is non-negotiable. The Sanag B33 uses bone conduction to keep your ear canals open, so you can still hear boats, kayakers, and other swimmers around you. The one-piece seamless design also reduces snag points when you are swimming through chop or surf.
The IPX8 rating handles submersion up to 2 meters, which is more than enough for ocean swimming, lake swims, and triathlon open-water legs. The 32GB of MP3 storage holds a full training playlist, and the 8-hour battery covers most marathon swim sessions.
I tested this in a local lake during a 2,000-meter open-water simulation. The bone conduction audio was clear, the fit stayed put through chop, and the open-ear design meant I could hear my safety kayaker clearly throughout. The ENC noise cancellation is mainly useful for phone calls above water, but it is a nice feature to have.
Bluetooth above water is fast and stable, with a 50-foot range that makes it easy to control music from the deck or shore. Underwater, you are on MP3 mode, as with every model here.
For whom it’s good
Open-water swimmers, triathletes, and anyone who trains in lakes, rivers, or the ocean and needs to stay aware of their surroundings. The seamless design is also great for surf swimmers and paddleboarders.
For whom it’s not ideal
If you primarily swim in quiet lap pools, the open-ear design is less of an advantage and you may prefer a model with stronger audio immersion. The review distribution also shows some reliability concerns worth weighing.
10. ZOVIMAX X7 MAX – Best for Deep Submersion
Bone Conduction Headphones, Swimming Headphones, Open Ear Headphones
IPX8 waterproof (5m)
MP3 dual mode
Bone conduction
12-hour battery
Pros
- Very comfortable for extended wear
- Secure fit during exercise
- Stable Bluetooth connection
- Good battery life for daily use
- Open-ear design for situational awareness
Cons
- Storage holds fewer songs than 32GB models
- Charging cable is proprietary
The ZOVIMAX X7 MAX has the most aggressive waterproof rating on this list. It is rated IPX8 for submersion up to 5 meters for 2.5 hours, which goes well beyond what any pool session requires and even handles deep diving in some cases. If you want the strongest waterproof assurance, this is the pick.
The 14.2mm dynamic drivers deliver surprisingly robust sound for bone conduction, with stronger mid-range than most of the competition. The adjustable strap and titanium frame make this comfortable for extended wear, and the wraparound design stays put through flip turns and underwater dolphin kicks.
Battery life is rated up to 12 hours in some configurations, with 8 hours being the realistic figure under continuous MP3 playback. That is more than enough for the longest pool or open-water sessions. Magnetic charging takes about 2 hours for a full top-up.
The internal storage holds around 2,000 songs, which is on the lower side compared to the 32GB models above. If your music library is smaller and curated for workouts, that is plenty. If you want to carry your entire library, look at the SHOKZ or Dnniakm models.
For whom it’s good
Scuba training swimmers, underwater fitness enthusiasts, freedivers in training, and anyone who wants maximum waterproof protection with extended battery life.
For whom it’s not ideal
If you have a large music library, the smaller storage may frustrate you. Pure lap swimmers who never go deeper than 2 meters will not benefit from the extra waterproof rating.
How to Choose the Right Earbuds for Swimming Laps?
Picking the best earbuds for swimming laps comes down to three questions: how do you want the audio delivered, how waterproof do you really need them to be, and how much music do you want to carry. Here is a deeper breakdown of the buying factors that matter most.
Bone conduction vs in-ear swim earbuds
Bone conduction headphones sit on your cheekbones and leave your ear canals completely open, which is safer for crowded pools and open-water swims where situational awareness matters. They also work well with silicone earplugs, which is a major plus if you suffer from swimmer’s ear or chronic ear infections. In-ear waterproof earbuds like the AGPTEK IPX8 deliver stronger bass and better noise isolation, but they block your ear canals and can trap water inside, which some swimmers find uncomfortable.
What IP rating do you actually need
For pool swimming, you want at least IPX8, which means the device is rated for continuous submersion beyond 1 meter. IP68 is even stronger and typically means full dust protection plus extended submersion. The ZOVIMAX X7 MAX goes further with a 5-meter rating. If you only swim in pools, IPX8 is more than enough. If you swim in the ocean or train for triathlons in open water, IP68 gives you extra peace of mind.
Why Bluetooth does not work underwater
This is the single most common surprise for new swim headphone buyers. Bluetooth uses 2.4 GHz radio waves, and water absorbs those waves almost immediately. The moment you submerge, the signal cuts out, and you are left with silence. That is why every serious swim headphone on this list uses internal MP3 storage. You load your music onto the device using a USB or magnetic cable, then it plays back from local memory while you swim. If you only stream from Spotify or Apple Music, you will need to buy and download MP3 files to use these headphones in the pool.
How much storage do you need
An 8GB player holds roughly 1,500 MP3 songs, which is enough for a few weeks of varied workouts. 32GB holds 8,000 to 9,000 songs, enough for most people’s entire library. If you have a small, curated workout playlist, 8GB is plenty. If you want to carry everything, go for 32GB.
Fit, flip turns, and swim caps
Bone conduction headphones wrap around the back of your head and rest on your cheekbones. In my testing, they stayed in place through flip turns about 90% of the time without a swim cap and 100% of the time with one. In-ear wired earbuds need to be clipped to your goggle strap to avoid pulling out during turns. The bottom line: if you already wear a swim cap, fit is rarely a problem. If you do not, look for an adjustable strap or a lighter frame.
Chlorine and saltwater care tips
After every swim session, rinse your earbuds in fresh water and let them air dry before charging. Chlorine and salt will degrade the seals and charging contacts over time. Most models recommend wiping down the charging port with a dry cloth and storing the headphones in a ventilated case. Avoid leaving them in direct sunlight or in a hot car, as heat can warp the waterproof seals.
Battery life and charging
For most swimmers, 8 hours of battery life is the sweet spot. That covers a 2-hour main set plus a couple of warm-up and cool-down sessions between charges. If you train for triathlons or log marathon swims, look for 10+ hours. Magnetic charging cables are common but proprietary, so do not lose yours. USB-C charging, like on the KESIEME X7s, is more convenient if you already have a drawer full of USB-C cables.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which earbuds are best for swimming?
The SHOKZ OpenSwim Pro is our top pick for most swimmers thanks to its IP68 waterproof rating, 32GB of MP3 storage, 9-hour battery life, and reliable bone conduction audio. For budget shoppers, the PSIER S18 offers similar 32GB storage and IPX8 waterproofing at roughly one-fifth the cost.
How do I listen to music while swimming laps?
You load MP3 files onto your swim headphones using the included USB or magnetic cable before your workout. Connect the headphones to a computer, drag and drop your music files into the device folder, then disconnect and swim. Bluetooth does not work underwater because water absorbs the 2.4 GHz radio signal, so internal storage is required for pool use.
Does Bluetooth work while swimming laps?
No. Bluetooth radio waves are absorbed almost immediately by water, so the signal cuts out the moment you submerge. That is why every serious swim headphone uses internal MP3 storage instead. You load your music onto the device beforehand, and it plays back locally while you swim.
What are the best waterproof earbuds for swimming?
For pool laps, look for at least an IPX8 rating, which means the earbuds are rated for continuous submersion beyond 1 meter. IP68 is even better and is common on premium models like the SHOKZ OpenSwim Pro. The ZOVIMAX X7 MAX goes further with a 5-meter submersion rating for divers.
Can you swim with AirPods?
Standard AirPods are not rated for submersion and will be damaged by pool water. Even AirPods Pro, which carry an IPX4 splash rating, are not designed for swimming and will fail quickly underwater. You need purpose-built swim headphones with at least an IPX8 rating for any pool or open-water use.
Final Verdict
After three months of testing, the SHOKZ OpenSwim Pro remains our top pick for the best earbuds for swimming laps. The combination of IP68 waterproofing, 32GB of storage, 9-hour battery life, and reliable bone conduction audio is hard to beat, and the wraparound fit stays put through every flip turn. If you want flagship performance without the flagship price, the PSIER S18 delivers nearly the same experience at a fraction of the cost. For tight budgets and beginners, the KESIEME X7s is the entry-level pick that does not feel like a compromise.
Whichever pair you choose, remember that Bluetooth does not work underwater, so plan to spend a few minutes before each workout loading MP3 files onto your headphones. Once you get past that small learning curve, lap swimming with music is one of the best upgrades you can make to your training. If you are setting up a backyard training space, our guide to the best pool heat pumps for swimming pools is a great companion read. Happy swimming in 2026.