Best Headphones for Army Use in the Gym

The Army recently approved the use of headphones in the gym for soldiers. However, there are strict parameters in place. So we’ve compiled a list of some great sounding, affordable buds to meet their needs. These three options top our Best Headphones for Army Use List.

Best Headphones for Army Use in the Gym

The guidelines as outlined in Army Directive 2016-20 (Authorization to Use Headphones in Uniform) are as follows:

Effective immediately, unless the unit or installation commander prohibits otherwise, Soldiers may use headphones, including wireless or non-wireless devices and earpieces, in uniform only while performing individual physical training in indoor gyms or fitness centers. Soldiers may not wear headphones beyond the permitted area in any manner, including around the neck or attached to the uniform. Headphones will be conservative and discreet. Ear pads will not exceed 1-1/2 inches in diameter at the widest point. Soldiers may wear electronic devices, such as music players or cell phones, as prescribed in AR 670-1, paragraph 3-6a(2)(b). They may also wear a solid black armband for electronic devices in the gym or fitness center. Soldiers may not wear the armband beyond the permitted area.

Strict! Taking the aforementioned into account, here are three of our top picks.

Westone ADV Adventure Series Alpha

These earbuds definitely make the cut as one of the best headphones for army use in the gym. The Alpha is a sturdy earbud that loops over the ear for a secure fit. These sport buds deliver smooth audio over a frequency range of 20 – 18,000 Hertz using 6.5 mm drivers. It is slightly heavy on the low-end, but thumping bass lines in EDM and hip-hop will be sure to get soldiers through their intense workout regimen. If you love a little emphasis in the bass these headphones are for you. The entire frame is sweat proof while the detachable cable is also light reflective. Best of all, these earbuds, like the others mentioned, are small and discreet enough to fall into the size requirements. The Adventure Series Alpha retails for $150.

Jaybirds x2

These birds soar above the competition when it comes to choosing the best headphones for army use with an exceptional fit thanks to the ergonomic sport fin. Jaybirds loop behind the head and use Bluetooth capability to play music from your phone. A full charge will power these fitness headphones for up to 8 hours. They use powerful 6 mm drivers to deliver lush, balanced sound across the frequency range of 20 – 20,000 Hertz. The Jaybirds x2 retail at $150.

MEE x7 Plus

These workout headphones were also designed for hands-free use. The x7 Plus uses Bluetooth 4.1 technology to keep your music skip-free through out training sessions. The x7 Plus is an over-the-ear design and includes an in-line mic and controller. A single charge will keep the cable-less earbuds running for 7.5 hours and 300 on standby. The 6 mm drivers delivers open-sounding audio with clarity from lows to highs. Sometimes the treble may seem a bit distant, but the overall sound is clear across the frequency range of 20 – 20,000 Hertz. The MEE x7 Plus is $100.