Running can be a great way to get some exercise and fresh air, but it can also be quite repetitive and boring. Music can help make running more enjoyable, but finding the right running headphones can challenge. If you have small ears, it can be difficult to find headphones that stay in place and don’t fall out.
This article will look at some of the best running headphones for someone with small ears. We’ll also provide some tips on choosing the right headphones and how to make sure they stay in place.
Running Headphones | Brand | Our Rating | Check on Amazon |
---|---|---|---|
![]() | Samsung Galaxy Wireless Buds+ | ![]() | Check Price |
![]() | AfterShokz Aeropex Open-Ear Headphones | ![]() | Check Price |
![]() | Bose SoundSport Wireless Earbuds | ![]() | Check Price |
![]() | Hussar Magicbuds Bluetooth Headphones | ![]() | Check Price |
![]() | Joysico Sport Headphones | ![]() | Check Price |
Why Do Headphones Fall Out Your Ears When Running?
There are a few reasons why headphones may fall out of your ears when running.
- If the headphones are too loose, they will naturally fall out as you move.
- Sweat can make the headphones slippery and cause them to slip out.
- The earbuds may not fit snugly enough to stay in place if you have small ears.
Best Running Headphones for Small Ears: Our Top Picks
OUR #1 CHOICE
Our Top Pick: Samsung Galaxy Wireless Buds+

Product Name: Samsung Galaxy Wireless Buds+
Product Description: These earphones are fashionable and available in various colors. It includes a case that works as both a protective case and a charging station for your earbuds when they're not in use. Three minutes of charging equals one hour of playing time. The sound quality is excellent, and we particularly like the Ambient Aware 2 feature. When turned on, it enables you to hear the sounds of your surrounding, ensuring that you don't miss important warnings or get distracted while running. You can turn off this feature if you're jogging on a treadmill or anyplace else where you're sure you're safe. You can manage the earphones with your phone, but you can also use your Galaxy wristwatch, which is a really useful function if you're running. The main flaw with these earphones is their lack of waterproofing (or lack thereof). Their IPX rating is 2, the bare minimum for wireless earphones. They'll be able to stand up to sweaty ears, but you won't be able to run in the rain or wash your earphones under running water.
Offer price: $$$
Availability: InStock
Overall
-
Sound Quality
-
Water-Resistant
-
Battery-life
Summary
Samsung Galaxy Wireless Buds+ are some of the best earphones on the market. They’re fashionable and come in a variety of colors. The sound quality is excellent, and you will particularly like the Ambient Aware 2 feature.
The main flaw with these earphones is their lack of waterproofing (or lack thereof). It has IPx2, which is the very bare minimum for wireless earphones.
Pros
- It has a comfortable fit
- Smartphones, smartwatches, and Alexa can control the buds.
- You may listen to music for up to 11 hours on a single charge.
- Ambient Aware 2 feature
Cons
If you’re caught in the rain or perspiration, an IPX rating of 2 may not adequately protect your buds
RUNNERS-UP
AfterShokz Aeropex Open-Ear Headphones

AfterShokz Aeropex open-ear headphones are the perfect audio solution for an active lifestyle. With patented bone conduction technology, you can enjoy premium sound without sacrificing awareness of your surroundings.
These headphones feature an 8-hour battery life which is great for long runs. With a waterproof rating of IP67, you don’t have to worry about them getting wet when you’re sweating or caught in the rain.
These headphones are incredibly lightweight and comfortable to wear for extended periods. They’re also adjustable to ensure a secure fit, even with a smaller head or ears.
Bose SoundSport Wireless Earbuds

Bose is recognized for its high-quality sound, and the Soundsport wireless headphones are no exception. They’ve been chosen as the finest headphones for sound quality.
The reliable Bluetooth connection is critical for constant sound quality, and Bose has upgraded the firmware to improve video or audio sync performance. They even include a built-in mic, allowing you to accept calls even if one ear is deafeningly quiet.
After a 2-hour charge, you may listen to music for up to 5 hours. If you need more, just place them in the charging case (which holds a charge for up to 10 hours) for a rapid boost. They have an IPX4 grade, indicating splash and sweat resistance. These can withstand a short drought, but they will be harmed by heavy rain.
Hussar Magicbuds Bluetooth Headphones

Hussar Magicbuds Bluetooth Headphones are perfect for people who love to stay active. With a comfortable and secure fit, these headphones will never fall out while you’re working out. You’ll also appreciate the superior sound quality and amazing volume. Whether you’re listening to music, audiobooks, or relaxing sounds, Hussar Magicbuds Bluetooth Headphones will provide an incredible listening experience.
The Hussar Magicbuds Bluetooth Earbuds feature CVC 6.0 noise reduction technology, allowing you to enjoy your music without distractions. You’ll also appreciate the long battery life. With up to 9 hours of playtime and Bluetooth V5.0, and universal connectivity, these earbuds are perfect for any activity.
Joysico Sport Headphones

Because they may easily fit into your ear canal, Joysico sports headphones are ideal for ladies and children. They feature sweatproof earphones that may be used when running, jogging, or working out hard. The earphones are put into your ear to ensure a precise fit.
It also has a microphone connected to it. These buds are not as big as Apple’s AirPods. They are quite comfy and the ideal jogging headphones for little ears.
These wired earbuds connect to 3.5 mm headphone jack devices, such as iPads, tablets, computers, Samsung, Xbox, Android/Windows mobile phones, and MP3 players.
What Are The Types of Headphones You May Consider?
There are a few different types of headphones that you may want to consider when looking for the best running headphones for small ears.
On-ear
On-ear headphones are headphones that sit on top of your ears. These lightweight headphones are ideal for runners with small ears because they are small and light. It has earpads pressed against your ears, making it ideal for gym-goers.
They’re fashionable, but they’re also extremely comfortable to wear. On-ear headphones are significantly lighter and smaller than over-ear headphones.
On-ear headphones don’t make your earshot as well. However, they may not provide as much noise isolation and sound quality as over-ear headphones.
Over-ear
Over-ear headphones are the largest type of headphones. These headphones have large earcups that help keep out outside noise. It is common for them to come in large sizes to protect your ears adequately.
The perfect fit of over-ear headphones is provided by a band that wraps around the top of your head. They tend to be more comfortable and have better sound quality, but they can be bulky and difficult to keep in place while running.
Bone conduction
Because of their unique technology, bone conduction headphones are becoming increasingly popular. In contrast to the other headphones, this one is attached to the back of your head. There has been an increase in headphone companies incorporating these headphones. In terms of difficulty, they’re the most demanding. This technology has seen a significant uptick in demand.
In-ear
Headphones plugged into the ear canal are in-ears, earpieces, or earbuds. Headphones of this type are used by people with small ears and running and jogging, respectively. They are precisely sized to fit snugly in your ear canal. In-ear headphones are the most popular choice for mobile use.
They are available in wireless and wired configurations, with wireless being the more labor-intensive option. Since they are the closest to your eardrums, in-ear headphones produce the best sound possible. With these headphones, you’ll be able to appreciate them more.
Here are types of in-ear headphones that you may want to check.
Neckband earbuds
These earbuds are still unattached from your phone, but they connect the buds with a wire or band that stores antenna, microphones, or batteries. If you can get beyond the connecting wire, you’ll get higher battery life (eight or more hours, against four hours for some completely wireless devices) and a far lower price.
Since the connecting wires contain some circuitry, these buds are often smaller, and their decreased weight can mean less tinkering with the fit.
Wireless earbuds with hooks
Over-ear hooks relieve some of the pressure on the ear canal to keep. A hook can also enhance the fit of an earphone by providing a second point of contact to keep it in place.
The hook houses the antennae or a battery, allowing these buds to last longer than true wireless buds. They’re often less expensive than totally wireless ones, although some will still set you back more than $200.
Wireless earbuds
There are no connecting hooks or cables that extend around your ear with these buds. You simply push them in and go. This kind fits snugly in the ear canal to prevent it from loosening in the middle of a run. They are lightweight due to their tiny design, and their small batteries can result in shorter runtimes.
Wireless earbuds are the most expensive type, with some models costing more than $200.
Benefits of Using Headphones While Running

There are several reasons to use headphones while running. Some of them include:
Much easier runs
It’s difficult enough to train for a race, so why not make it a little easier on yourself? Based on research performed at Keele University in England, listening to your favorite tracks while jogging reduces exertion and boosts your sense of “being in the zone.”
The same research found that when cyclists pedaled to music, they did so at a significantly lower rate of perceived effort—even when the tunes were unfamiliar.
Music’s outward stimulation can suppress internal sensations like tiredness, which is trying to warn your brain that you’re starting to become fatigued in the middle of a run. When a runner’s sense of how hard they’re running is lessened, they believe they can run faster and for longer periods. Maybe they’ll be able to achieve that desired runner’s high even faster.
Keeps your run at a consistent pace
When you’re running to music, you can better keep a consistent pace, which is essential if you want to hit those PRs.
Music acts as an external metronome, providing crucial timing information that our brain needs to maintain a steady pace. It is especially beneficial for long-distance runners who need to hold a steady pace for an extended period.
Get pumped up for runs.
Every runner knows that getting motivated for a run can be tough, especially if you’re not a morning person. But music can give you that extra push to get out the door by getting you pumped up and ready to go.
Choose songs with a high BPM (beats per minute) to get your heart racing and adrenaline pumping. It will help you get into the right mindset for a great run.
Plus, up-tempo music can make you run faster without feeling like you’re exerting more effort. In one study, runners who ran to fast-paced music increased their speed by 15 percent without feeling like they were working any harder.
Make running fun
Running can be a drag, especially if you’re running the same route daily. But music can make running fun by adding some excitement to your runs.
Choose upbeat songs that you enjoy listening to so you look forward to putting on your headphones and hitting the pavement. It will help you stay motivated to keep running, even when you don’t feel like it.
Things to Consider When Looking for Running Headphones for Small Ears
Now that you know the benefits of using headphones while running, it’s time to learn what to look for when choosing the right headphones for your needs. Here are a few factors to keep in mind:
Strong connectivity
If you’re using wireless headphones, you’ll want to make sure they have a strong connection so you don’t have to worry about them falling out or losing sound in the middle of your run.
Look for headphones that use Bluetooth 4.0 or higher for a reliable connection. You should also make sure the range is at least 33 feet so you’re not limited in where you can take your music with you.
Comfortable fit
The last thing you want while running is to have to adjust your headphones every few minutes because they’re not comfortable. Look for headphones designed to stay in place, even when you’re sweating.
In-ear headphones are a good option because they fit snugly inside your ear and won’t fall out, even if you’re sweating. If you prefer over-ear headphones, look for a pair that has adjustable ear hooks so you can find the perfect fit for your ears.
Good sound quality
Of course, you’ll want to make sure your running headphones have good sound quality to enjoy your music. Look for headphones with a balanced sound signature with clear highs and lows.
You should also make sure the headphones have noise-canceling features so you can block out distractions and focus on your run.
Long battery life
If you’re using wireless headphones, you’ll want to ensure they have a long battery life so you don’t have to worry about them running out of juice in the middle of your run.
Look for headphones that can last for eight hours on a single charge. It will give you plenty of time to enjoy your music without worrying about recharging in the middle of your run.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can ears be too small for earbuds?
A: While there is no such thing as “too small” when it comes to earbuds, some people may find that certain earbuds do not fit well or are uncomfortable due to the size and shape of their ears. If you have trouble finding a comfortable fit with standard earbuds, try looking for a pair with different-sized ear tips to find the perfect fit for your ears.
Q: Do all running headphones have noise-canceling features?
A: No, not all running headphones have noise-canceling features. However, many higher-end models have this feature to help you block out distractions and focus on your run.
Q: How do I keep my earbuds from falling out when running?
A: If you find that your earbuds are constantly falling out when you’re running, try looking for a pair with an over-the-ear hook design. It will help keep the earbuds in place, even if you’re sweating. You can also try using double-sided tape to keep the earbuds in place.
Q: My ears get sweaty when I run. Will this affect the performance of my headphones?
A: No, sweat will not affect the performance of your headphones. However, it is important to clean your headphones after every use to prevent the buildup of sweat and bacteria. Simply wipe down the earbuds with a clean cloth after each use.
Final Thoughts
Running offers many benefits, both physically and mentally. And listening to music while you run can help you stay motivated and focused on your workout.
But not just any headphones will do. You need a pair of comfortable headphones, good sound quality, and won’t fall out while running.
The good news is that there are plenty of great options out there. So, whether you’re looking for in-ear or over-ear headphones, there’s a pair out there that will fit your needs. Get pumped up and hit the pavement with the perfect pair of running headphones.