10 Best Breathable Headphones (Not Hot or Sweaty)
Are you searching for breathable headphones, but are having a hard time locating a pair that you’re happy with? Breathable headphones are great because air can freely flow thereby removing moisture and sweat. However, they don’t provide as much noise isolation since ambient noise can pass through.
We have created a buying consideration section where you’ll see the features breathable headphones should have. If you’ve never bought headphones before, then read this part with your full attention. Even if you don’t buy from us at least you would have learned the necessary information to buy breathable headphones elsewhere.
Moreover, we have searched the marketplace and came up with 10 headphones that offer their own unique pluses and minuses. This will save you time as you won’t need to search yourself as we have conveniently placed them into one buyer’s guide. Also, we have created 3 price categories so everybody has options to choose from no matter their budget. We hope you have as much fun reading this guide as we did writing.
Budget |
---|
Marshall Major II |
4.9/5.0 |
Weight: 6.1 ounces |
Headphone fit: On-ear |
Drivers have been tuned well, stylish design, built-in microphone. |
Check Amazon |
Best Value |
---|
Beats Solo 3 |
4.8/5.0 |
Weight: 7.58 ounces |
Headphone fit: On-ear |
40 hour battery life, music sounds amazing and secure stable fit. |
Check Amazon |
Top Pick |
---|
Sennheiser HD 650 |
4.9/5.0 |
Weight: 9.1 ounces |
Headphone fit: Over-ear |
Ultra-wide frequency response and headphone is padded well. |
Check Amazon |
Breathable Headphones by Price:
Buying considerations
Comfort
Breathable headphone feature
Brand
Audio quality
Connectivity
Top 10 Breathable Headphones Comparison Table
Make and Model | Weight | Headphone fit | Price |
---|---|---|---|
Marshall Major II Headphones | 6.1 Ounces | On-ear | Check Price |
Panasonic RPHC101K Slim Z Headphone | 43.52 Ounces | On-ear | Check Price |
Sony MDRZX110NC Noise Canceling Headphones | 1.6 Ounces | On-ear | Check Price |
Koss KSC75 Headphones | 1.44 Ounces | On-ear | Check Price |
Grado Prestige Series SR225e Headphones | 9.9 Ounces | On-ear | Check Price |
Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X Headphones | 20 Ounces | On-ear | Check Price |
Sennheiser PXC 250 II Headphones | 40 Ounces | On-ear | Check Price |
Sennheiser HD 650 Open Back Professional Headphone | 9.1 Ounces | Over-ear | Check Price |
Bowers & Wilkins P5 headphones | 26.88 Ounces | On-ear | Check Price |
Beats Solo 3 Wireless On-Ear Headphones | 7.58 Ounces | On-ear | Check Price |
Best Breathable Headphones Under $100
Are you looking for the best budget breathable headphones, but so far not had any luck with the options you have been presented? In this category you will be shown some of the best options on the cheaper side, which provide amazing acoustics and comfort. They all offer padded earmuffs so they don’t strain after prolonged use and the headband is padded accordingly.
Some of these headphones come with 6.3mm adapters so you can use them with DJ and studio equipment. Also, connections are always stable as the wires used are made from premium durable materials.
1. Marshall Major II Headphones (Best Budget)
Editor’s Rating: 4.9/5.0
The Marshall Major II Headphones has a built-in microphone that can be used to record voice memos or take calls hands-free. The connection method used is wired with a 3.5mm jack, but if you need the headphone for studio use then there is an included 6.3mm adapter. However, if the included wire is not suitable then you can replace it with your own as it features a removable cable.
Moreover, the audio output is excellent with these headphones because the drivers have been tuned perfectly to work with all music genres. The frequency response used is 20 Hz – 20k Hz so you get a full range of notes that the speaker drivers can play.
Wearing the headphone is super comfortable as it uses well-padded leather cushioning that feels phenomenal – even after wearing for long durations. The headband is easily adjustable and has many size settings so people of all head sizes are accommodated. The overall design is quite nice with a gold and black theme.
There is no Bluetooth technology with the Marshall Major II Headphones so you don’t get wireless freedom. Also, the built-in microphone isn’t noise canceling so the receiver can hear ambient noises if you’re in a loud area.
In summary, the Marshall Major II Headphones are one of the best budget options available. It features a removable cable and 6.3mm adapters so that you can use the device in the studio. The wide frequency response of 20 Hz – 20k Hz means that the drivers can produce accurate sounding audio, which is almost lifelike.
Tech Specs |
---|
Weight: 6.1 ounces |
Headphone fit: On-ear |
Frequency response: 20 Hz – 20k Hz |
Warranty: N/A |
The Pros |
---|
Drivers have been tuned well |
Stylish design |
Built-in microphone |
The Cons |
---|
No wireless freedom |
Microphone is not noise canceling |
2. Panasonic RPHC101K Slim Z Headphone
Editor’s Rating: 4.8/5.0
The Panasonic RPHC101K Slim Z Headphone has a lightweight design that fits on your head perfectly. The earmuffs are made from comfortable materials that are long lasting and don’t strain after wearing for a while. Also, the headband is easily adjustable and has many settings so it can fit on every user.
The audio sounds excellent as it uses powerful speaker drivers, which utilizes a wide frequency response. This allows the headphone to produce almost lifelike audio and with the help of noise cancellation you get immersed into the music. The on-ear design provides a tight seal so music can’t leak out, but air can still flow through thanks to the vents.
Furthermore, the connection method used is wired, which helps provide a stable audio experience as the transmitted waves can’t be interfered with. On the wire is a built-in button pad that can be used to adjust the volume and turn the noise cancellation on or off.
When holding this headphone it does feel slightly cheap, but that is to be expected with a budget option. The overall design isn’t that durable so try not to drop it and keep it away from water. Also, the headband isn’t padded well so it can be uncomfortable after a while.
To conclude, the Panasonic RPHC101K Slim Z Headphone is an excellent budget choice, which comes with noise cancellation. You can immerse yourself into the music as the headphone uses a wide frequency response that leads to lifelike audio. In addition, the earmuffs have been padded well to provide long lasting comfort and no strain can be felt.
Tech Specs |
---|
Weight: 43.52 ounces |
Headphone fit: On-ear |
Frequency response: 20 Hz – 20k Hz |
Warranty: N/A |
The Pros |
---|
Built-in button pad |
Comfortable earmuffs |
Noise canceling |
The Cons |
---|
Feels cheap |
Easy to break |
3. Sony MDRZX110NC Noise Canceling Headphones
Editor’s Rating: 4.6/5.0
The Sony MDRZX110NC Headphones are noise canceling so you can immerse yourself into the music as you won’t be able to hear annoying ambient sounds. The drivers have been tuned perfectly so they produce the best sounding music. With the help of the 10 Hz – 22k Hz frequency response it sounds pinpoint.
Moreover, the music can get extremely loud as the maximum sensitivity is 115 dB and no distortion can be heard at any volume. The connection method is wired and has a battery life of 80 hours for the noise cancellation.
The headband is comfortable to wear and doesn’t apply too much pressure, while still providing a secure fit. Also, the earmuffs are made from premium leather so they are comfortable to wear for long periods of time. Furthermore, you can remove them to wash or replace when needed.
These headphones aren’t resistant to water so using them in bad weather conditions is not ideal. Also, the headband isn’t the durable so twisting or bending can break it easily – when traveling pack it carefully.
In conclusion, the Sony MDRZX110NC Headphones can immerse you into the music because they are noise canceling. The leather earmuffs are comfortable to wear for long periods of time so you don’t have to worry about strain. In addition, the audio can get extremely loud as the maximum sensitivity is 115 dB.
Tech Specs |
---|
Weight: 1.6 ounces |
Headphone fit: On-ear |
Frequency response: 10 Hz – 22k Hz |
Warranty: N/A |
The Pros |
---|
Noise canceling |
115 dB sensitivity |
Comfortable earmuffs |
The Cons |
---|
Headband isn’t durable |
Not advised to use in bad weather conditions |
4. Koss KSC75 Headphones
Editor’s Rating: 4.5/5.0
The connection method used with the Koss KSC75 Headphones is wired so you don’t have to worry about forgetting to charge the device. The 3.5mm jack is made from premium materials so the connections are always stable and the wire is highly durable. You also get a lifetime warranty upon purchasing these headphones, which covers all damage types.
The neodymium iron boron magnets offer deep bass performance and extra crispy vocals. The wide frequency response helps the headphone to improve the sound signature as it can play more notes within a beat. Also, no distortion can be heard thanks to the titanium coating implemented in the audio drivers.
In addition, wearing the headphone is super comfortable as it uses a unique design the goes on top of the ear. The earhooks provide a secure stable fit that doesn’t let the headphone slip off – even during fast movements.
With these headphones there is no noise isolation so you can hear background audio easily, which can be irritating if you’re in a loud area. Also, if the device gets wet then the drivers can damage easily so keep it away from water.
To summarize, the Koss KSC75 Headphones are great for people who don’t want to wear a headband as it features earhooks instead. The audio sounds excellent because it uses drivers that have been created from premium materials. Also, upon purchasing this headphone you’ll get a lifetime warranty that covers all damage types.
Tech Specs |
---|
Weight: 1.44 ounces |
Headphone fit: On-ear |
Frequency response: 15 Hz – 25k Hz |
Warranty: Lifetime |
The Pros |
---|
Comfortable earhooks |
Drivers are made from durable materials |
Stable connections |
The Cons |
---|
Not resistant to water |
No noise isolation |
Best Breathable Headphones Under $200
The under $200 category has some of the best breathable headphones the marketplace has to offer. Here you will find a range of headphones that are great for studio and home use. Also, wearing them is super comfortable as they use extra-padded earmuffs that provide long lasting comfort.
Furthermore, you can trust the brands as they have a track record of producing great products. Plus, with some of these headphones you get a warranty that covers manufacturer faults.
5. Grado Prestige Series SR225e Headphones
Editor’s Rating: 4.9/5.0
The Grado Prestige Series SR225e Headphones features a cool retro design that makes any outfit look stylish. The leather headband is made to be super comfortable and doesn’t apply a lot of pressure so no strain can be felt after a while. Also, the earmuffs are made from extra thick padding so that it reduces ambient noise.
Moreover, the audio quality is excellent as the drivers used are more from premium materials, which ensures a smooth listening experience. The connection method used is wired so you don’t have to worry about walking out of the connection range unlike with Bluetooth.
Once you purchase this headphone you will get a manufacturer’s warranty that is only applicable in the United States. Due to its lightweight design traveling with the headphone is great and thanks to the durable design you don’t have to worry about accidental bumps and drops.
As mentioned you can only use the warranty if you’re from the US, which is a disadvantage if you’re based elsewhere. Also, you don’t receive a traveling case upon purchasing this headphone, so you’ll have to get one separately. There is no noise canceling so some ambient sounds can be heard in loud areas.
To summarize, the Grado Prestige Series SR225e Headphones comes with comfortable earmuffs that provide long lasting comfort. The durable lightweight design means this headphone is great to travel with. Also, the connection method used is wired so the transmitted waves don’t get distorted as nothing can obstruct the signal path.
Tech Specs |
---|
Weight: 9.9 ounces |
Headphone fit: On-ear |
Frequency response: 20 Hz – 22k Hz |
Warranty: N/A |
The Pros |
---|
Comfortable to wear for long durations |
Stable connections |
Drivers have been tuned well |
The Cons |
---|
Warranty can only be used in the US |
No traveling case comes with the headphone |
6. Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X Headphones
Editor’s Rating: 4.8/5.0
The Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X Headphones use 53mm drivers to reproduce clear treble and mid range notes. The bobbin-wound CCAW voice coils produce superior power handling of 38 ohms and a sensitivity of 100 dB, which means the music can get pretty loud. Also, the headphone utilizes an ultra-wide frequency range of 5 Hz – 30k Hz.
In addition, wearing the Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X is super comfortable because it uses self-adjusting wing support, which provides a secure and comfortable fit. The earmuffs have been padded well to provide comfort and not to let the ears sweat. The open back design further helps prevent ears from sweating as it lets the ear flow through and reduces heat.
The connection method is wired so that it can provide stable music throughout the listening period. Unlike with Bluetooth nothing can obscure the transmitted waves and thus leads to a brilliant musical experience. Moreover, the headphone features a durable design made from tough aluminum metal – so it can take a few bangs and drops.
There are no built-in buttons so you can’t adjust the volume or shuffle between songs without touching the device you are connected to. Furthermore, the open back design means that air can flow through and also annoying ambient noises.
In conclusion, the Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X Headphones can produce vibrant beats thanks to its ultra-wide frequency of 5 Hz – 30k Hz. The self-adjusting 3D wing support provides a stable fit and doesn’t let the headphone slip off – even during fast movements. Lastly, the audio can get extremely loud as the sensitivity is 100 dB and no distortion can be heard.
Tech Specs |
---|
Weight: 20 ounces |
Headphone fit: On-ear |
Frequency response: 5 Hz – 30k Hz |
Warranty: N/A |
The Pros |
---|
Self-adjusting 3D wing support |
100 dB sensitivity |
Bass sounds brilliant |
The Cons |
---|
No built-in buttons |
Can hear ambient noises due to open back design |
7. Sennheiser PXC 250 II Headphones
Editor’s Rating: 4.7/5.0
The Sennheiser PXC 250 II Headphones features a breathable design that allows air to freely flow through so that your ears won’t sweat. The on-ear style makes it easier to hear your surroundings so when in public areas such as train stations they are safe to use. However, you can switch on the noise canceling to reduce ambient sounds up to 80%.
Moreover, the audio quality is great as it uses powerful speaker drivers that can produce music up to 112 dB with no distortion. The frequency response is 10 Hz – 21k Hz so the audio sounds incredibly precise. When you purchase this headphone you will get a 2 year warranty that’s worldwide.
In addition, the headphone is powered by a single AAA battery, which provides playback time up to 50 hours. Wearing the headphone is nice because it features padded leather earmuffs and a padded headband.
Holding the headphone in hand doesn’t feel premium, which means you need to be the type of buyer that focuses on audio quality rather than visual aesthetics. Also, the design is not durable so twisting or bending it can easily snap the headband in half.
To summarize, the Sennheiser PXC 250 II Headphones comes with a 2 year warranty that is covered worldwide. The padded earmuffs provides maximum comfort and the noise canceling feature can reduce ambient noises up to 80%. Also, the single AAA battery can deliver up to 50 of playback time.
Tech Specs |
---|
Weight: 40 ounces |
Headphone fit: On-ear |
Frequency response: 10 Hz – 21k Hz |
Warranty: 2 Years |
The Pros |
---|
50 hour battery life |
112 dB sensitivity |
Noise cancellation can reduce ambient noises up to 80% |
The Cons |
---|
Doesn’t feel premium although costing a lot |
Overall design is not durable |
Best Breathable Headphones Under $500
Are you looking for the best breathable headphones the marketplace has to offer, but so far not had any luck? In this price category you will be shown some of the best options that are available for purchase today. They all offer premium quality music as their drivers have been tuned to perfection. Also, the wires used to transmit the sound waves are made from durable materials so your connections are always stable.
Wearing these headphones is wonderful as they use softly padded earmuffs that provide long lasting comfort. Also, the headband doesn’t apply too much pressure with these options so you don’t have to worry about them straining your head.
8. Sennheiser HD 650 Open Back Professional Headphone (Top Pick)
Editor’s Rating: 4.9/5.0
The specially designed acoustic silk ensures precision damping over the entire frequency range and helps reduce THD to 0.05%, which means the audio will sound incredibly accurate and smooth. The actual frequency response is 10 Hz – 39.5k Hz so the lows sound thunderous while the vocals are amazingly precise.
The audio drivers are made from hand-selected premium elements so that they are durable and won’t break down after a short period of time. The audio can get extremely loud thanks to the neodymium magnet drivers. Also, the connection method used is a 3.5mm jack that has an adapter so you can connect it to 6.3mm devices.
In addition, wearing the headphone is super comfortable as it uses a lightweight design that doesn’t feel bulky when wearing. The earmuffs are padded well so that it provides maximum comfort throughout the listening period. Plus the headband can be adjusted and doesn’t apply too much pressure when wearing.
This headphone features an open back design, which means you’ll be able to easily hear your surroundings so immersing yourself into the music will be tricky. Also, the durable design isn’t waterproof so any accidental splashes will damage the drivers.
To conclude, the Sennheiser HD 650 Open Back Professional Headphone is an excellent choice for music producers and DJs. It features a long 3.5mm cable cord that has an adapter to make it 6.3mm compatible. Also, the ultra-wide frequency response of 10 Hz – 39.5k Hz makes all songs sound incredibly accurate and gives life to them.
Tech Specs |
---|
Weight: 9.1 ounces |
Headphone fit: Over-ear |
Frequency response: 10 Hz – 39.5k Hz |
Warranty: 2 Years |
The Pros |
---|
Ultra-wide frequency response |
Comes with a 6.3mm adapter |
Headphone is padded well |
The Cons |
---|
Accidental splashes will damage the drivers easily |
Open back design means you can hear ambient noises |
9. Bowers & Wilkins P5 Wireless Bluetooth On-Ear Headphones
Editor’s Rating: 4.8/5.0
The Bowers & Wilkins P5 Headphones uses advanced Bluetooth technology to provide stable connections throughout the listening period. Also, using aptX technology the audio sounds enhanced and no distortion can be heard at any volume. The built-in battery has a playback time of 17 hours and the charging time is only a couple of hours.
The audio drivers used have won awards for being one of the best options available today. These drivers can produce more accurate beats that almost sound lifelike. Plus they work well with all genres of music. The audio can get extremely loud and the impendence is 22 ohms so the music is always stable.
Furthermore, the headphone features an on-ear design and is extremely comfortable to wear thanks to the heavily padded earmuffs. Air can easily flow through as the on-ear design doesn’t cover the ears completely, which means you won’t be sweating after wearing for long periods of time. Also, the headband is padded well too and is easily adjustable.
There is no quick charge feature so if you forget to charge the headphone then you’ll have to wait for some time. Also, there is no noise isolation so you can hear ambient noises pretty well, which can be annoying.
To summarize, the Bowers & Wilkins P5 Headphones is a great choice since it provides maximum comfort and a sweatproof design. The battery life brings up to 17 hours of playback time and only requires a couple of hours to charge. Also, the Bluetooth and aptX technology combined produces stable connections that have no interruptions.
Tech Specs |
---|
Weight: 26.88 ounces |
Headphone fit: On-ear |
Frequency response: 10 Hz – 20k Hz |
Warranty: N/A |
The Pros |
---|
17 hour battery life |
Stable connections |
Drivers have been tuned perfectly |
The Cons |
---|
No quick charge feature |
No noise isolation |
10. Beats Solo3 Wireless On-Ear Headphones (Best Value)
Editor’s Rating: 4.8/5.0
The Beats Solo3 Headphones can last up to 40 hours per charge, which is considerably more than the average headphone. It features a quick charge feature that provides 3 hours of playback time for only 5 minutes of charge. Upon purchasing you will get a warranty card that covers all manufacturer damages or malfunctions.
The connection method used is Bluetooth, which provides stable audio throughout the listening period. However, you can use an AUX wire that has a 3.5mm jack, so you don’t need to have a Bluetooth device for connectivity. In addition, the music sounds brilliant thanks to the well-tuned drivers that utilize a wide frequency response.
Moreover, you get a selection of 12 designs to choose from, thus guaranteeing a personalized product. Also, wearing the Beats Solo 3 is super comfortable as it uses thickly padded earmuffs. The headband is easy to adjust to the shape of your head and it provides a stable fit without applying too much pressure.
Beats is a premium brand so their products are going to have a bigger price tag compared to other companies. However, going with Beats is a great choice as you are certain the product you will receive is going to be high quality. Also, the on-ear design can get uncomfortable to wear if you’re used to the over-ear design.
To conclude, the Beats Solo3 Headphones is a brilliant choice because it features excellent audio and comfort. You can take calls hands-free as there is a built-in microphone and you can use the built-in buttons to shuffle between beats and adjust the volume. In addition, the brand is extremely reliable and you get a warranty card upon purchasing.
Tech Specs |
---|
Weight: 7.58 ounces |
Headphone fit: On-ear |
Frequency response: 10 Hz – 20k Hz |
Warranty: Warranty card |
The Pros |
---|
40 hour battery life |
Music sounds amazing |
Secure stable fit |
The Cons |
---|
Due to premium brand price will be higher |
On-ear design can be uncomfortable for some people |
Contents
- Breathable Headphones by Price:
- Buying considerations
- Comfort
- Breathable headphone feature
- Brand
- Audio quality
- Connectivity
- Top 10 Breathable Headphones Comparison Table
- Best Breathable Headphones Under $100
- 1. Marshall Major II Headphones (Best Budget)
- 2. Panasonic RPHC101K Slim Z Headphone
- 3. Sony MDRZX110NC Noise Canceling Headphones
- 4. Koss KSC75 Headphones
- Best Breathable Headphones Under $200
- 5. Grado Prestige Series SR225e Headphones
- 6. Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X Headphones
- 7. Sennheiser PXC 250 II Headphones
- Best Breathable Headphones Under $500
- 8. Sennheiser HD 650 Open Back Professional Headphone (Top Pick)
- 9. Bowers & Wilkins P5 Wireless Bluetooth On-Ear Headphones
- 10. Beats Solo3 Wireless On-Ear Headphones (Best Value)