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How Do I Choose the Best MP3 for Running?

Dan Cavallari
Dan Cavallari

An mp3 player is a convenient tool for listening to music while running or participating in other athletic events, but not all models are suitable for your needs as a runner. An mp3 for running will be small, compact, and lightweight while still providing good sound quality and an easy-to-use interface that will allow you to change songs while you run. Some models of mp3 for running can fit in an arm belt that will secure the player to your arm so it stays within reach and out of your way.

The best mp3 for running will feature plenty of storage space for a variety of songs, and it will interface with your home computer so you can arrange specific playlists. This means you will be able to pick and choose which songs will be in a specific playlist, and which playlist you want to listen to while on your run. Most mp3 players will allow this to some degree, but you should ensure the computer program used to create and manage playlists is easy to use.

Handheld MP3 player with earbud headphones.
Handheld MP3 player with earbud headphones.

Be sure to look carefully at the screen of the mp3 player for running. While some screens may be large and easy to read while you are examining them at the store, they may cast a significant amount of glare when you use the unit in broad daylight. Sometimes the player will feature an anti-glare screen, or a screen with adjustable light levels to ensure you can read the display in all conditions. The body of the mp3 for running should also be strong and lightweight. Sometimes the player will be waterproof or water resistant, which is exceptionally important if you plan to run in inclement weather. If the player is not water resistant or waterproof, you will need to invest in a waterproof cover that will prevent damage to the unit.

A good MP3 for running will have a lot of storage space.
A good MP3 for running will have a lot of storage space.

The headphones you use in conjunction with the mp3 player will have an impact on the usability and sound quality of the unit. Most mp3 players come with headphones, though the stock headphones may not always be the best choice. Try to find a pair that will fit snugly in or around the ears, as vibrations that occur during running may work the units loose, leading to discomfort and poor sound quality. Some headphones are noise-canceling units, which means outside sound is eliminated or greatly reduced using rubber gaskets that fit snugly in the ear. These are best for sound quality, though they may not always be the best choice for comfort.

Discussion Comments

disciples

Is there such a thing as wireless ear buds that connect to an mp3 player? I like to run with music but I hate having the cord bouncing around while I run.

backdraft

I have an iPod that has a huge storage capacity but I also have a little miniature version that I use for running and exercising.

It does not have a huge storage capacity but it can still hold hundreds of songs, more than I would need for any run. It is so small that I barely notice it.

profess

I have an mp3 player that straps around my upper arm when I run. It is great because it does not skip and it does not jostle around. Really, I don't notice it at all.

This is so much better than the way it used to be. I have been running for years and I have to listen to music while I do it. I went from a cassette player to a cd player and both of them worked but in the most awkward way possible. They were bulky, heavy and there was no good way to carry one with you and also really give yourself over to your run.

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    • Handheld MP3 player with earbud headphones.
      Handheld MP3 player with earbud headphones.
    • A good MP3 for running will have a lot of storage space.
      By: Dominator
      A good MP3 for running will have a lot of storage space.
    • Many people like to use MP3 players to listen to music while running.
      By: Deklofenak
      Many people like to use MP3 players to listen to music while running.
    • Pick an MP3 that's small, compact, and lightweight that will be easy to carry while you run.
      By: mario beauregard
      Pick an MP3 that's small, compact, and lightweight that will be easy to carry while you run.