Sennheiser CX 680 Sports

The Sennheiser CX 680 Sports -- also available in an Apple compatible version with inline microphone and remote as the Sennheiser CX 680i Sports (*Est. $80) -- earn reviewer praise as workout-friendly earphones. Made in association with Adidas, the CX 680/680i are sweat- and waterproof, and don't fall out easily -- thanks in part to unique, comfortable fins that protrude from each earpiece to tuck under the ridges of the outer ear. Sound quality doesn't compare with high-end earphones, though, and users add that highs may be overly bright at the expense of bass for some listeners. For more impressive sound quality, according to reviewers, the more expensive Klipsch Image S5i Rugged (*Est. $130) earphones are a better choice. Users also grumble about the weird cable, which is too short without the included extension but includes a nondetachable volume controller that can get in the way of vigorous activity.

The Sennheiser CX 680 Sports earphones get a balanced, positive review at PCMag.com. The Wall Street Journal includes the CX 680 in a survey of five good headphones suitable for teens. Amazon.com has a good selection of user reviews.