While it's true that running can burn the calories much quicker than swimming laps, there is the advantage of getting a virtually no-impact workout. Swimming is simply one of the best workouts a person can get. It is certainly an attractive option for those with a need for low-impact exercise. But, it can be a lonely, boring place under the water and the laps that we must complete to get a great workout can get monotonous. The development of swimming headphones has changed that, though.
There is a slight dilemma with the concept of swimming headphones. Water and electricity, or electronics, are notorious enemies. We are fortunate to live at a time in history where technological advances not only make the impossible marriage of water and electronics possible, but it also makes practical and affordable. It was not too long ago when similar devices would cost way more than they currently do. These items were bulky, they wouldn't perform perfectly and they were simply not worth the money. But since they were the top end in terms of technology and design, we accepted the shortcomings and paid the price in order to enjoy the luxuries of the day. So, what are the options in swimming headphones currently available for swimmers?
If you don't mind spending about $250 then you can get yourself a new second-generation iPod shuffle complete with waterproof headphones. It looks just about the same as its predecessor; it is unassuming, it doesn't have a large case, it's not awkward and it's simply a 2g shuffle. So, to clarify what you have with this package - the shuffle itself is waterproof and it comes with a set of waterproof headphones.
If the waterproof headphones that come with the iPod shuffle don't suit you, or if they don't work for swimming laps, then you should look into the next option. The H2O Audio waterproof swimming headphones; the case on these is made from a heavy duty plastic and they feel pretty sturdy. They may even be sturdy enough to take SCUBA diving with you. There is a two-way locking mechanism that seems to be completely impervious to any type of liquid trying to invade the inner workings.
The H2O Audio headphones may be a bit bulky and may not be the best option for streamlined swimming, but they can easily clip or strap to you in order to stay out of the way. The audio port on the iPod shuffle is rubberized and it will take the H2o Audio headphones jacked in very securely. The controls are a problem with the casing, though. They work fine, but they have a very cheap and clumsy feel. Certain concessions must be made when you consider that these are used in the water, but they still could have incorporated a better system for these swimming headphones.
Another great set of swimming Headphones are the Aquapac 100% Waterproof headphones. These are the best available on the market. It is comprised of two simple earbuds that can produce fairly decent sound. I say that these are the best but the quality seems to be subpar; this is not a typo. As I had said before, if you want your music underwater then you will simply need to make some concessions until we can make something better in the future.