JBL Waterproof Headphones Are Now 25% Off.
The JBL Endurance Race 2 headphones are designed with the specific needs of the user in mind, and that doesn’t compromise their intended purpose. They’re primarily sports headphones , and this emphasis is reflected in both the design and the compromises. They’re now $59.95 on Amazon, down from $89.95, making them an attractive option if you’re looking for reliable headphones without breaking the bank.
The earbuds themselves are large and protrude more than most, but the silicone clips work. You twist them, and they lock securely in place. During runs, strength training, and intense workouts, they stay in place in a way that many smaller earbuds fail to do. If you’ve been frustrated by the unreliability of workout earbuds, this alone might be enough reason to give these a try.
The headphones are IP68 rated, meaning they’re dustproof and can withstand heavy sweat and rain without concern. They’re not designed for swimming, but they’re more durable than almost any other headphones in this price range. The charging case is less impressive. It’s lightweight, at about 40 grams, but bulky. The IPX2 rating means they fit comfortably in a gym bag, but they’re not designed for use in inclement weather.
However, the headphones’ strong point is their battery life. With noise cancellation turned off, you get up to 12 hours of use, with it on, about 10 hours, and with the charging case, up to 48 hours total. That’s enough for a full week of training without having to worry about charging.
These aren’t high-end headphones, and that’s noticeable in the lack of clarity in the highs. The bass is powerful and rich enough for workout playlists, but detail is secondary. Active noise cancellation works well indoors, such as at the gym or on the go, but reportedly struggles outdoors, where traffic and footstep noise still filter through. The ambient sound mode is also unsatisfactory. It doesn’t transmit enough sound for reliable listening near busy roads, and wind noise can be distracting. The controls are touch-sensitive and can be customized in the app, but they don’t always respond well to sweaty fingers or gloves.
These headphones aren’t for those seeking sophisticated sound or top-notch noise cancellation . They’re for those who want a secure fit, long battery life, and a device that can handle heavy use.