You cycle faster with the right music - as numerous studies on roller training have shown. The key lies in matching the number of beats per minute (bpm) and training intensity. For HIIT units, for example, songs around 180 bpm are an ideal stimulant, while 120 bpm provides a solid rhythm for endurance/basic training.
Now all you need is the right headphones with good sound and a good fit in the ear. We have tested four current in-ear headphones.
adidas z.n.e. 01 anc
The headphones, which feature the iconic three Adidas stripes, protrude the furthest out of the ear. Depending on the shape of the ear, this can either create annoying pressure or provide the perfect fit, even when jogging. Various music modes can be selected via the associated app, which results in a greater change in sound than expected. Also good: the app allows you to customise the "noise control" setting, i.e. how much you can hear the outside noise. Eco-charging can be used to significantly increase the battery life from an already impressive 4.5 hours (20 with charging case). The headphones are paired by pressing the Adidas logo on the charging case. This always worked quickly and smoothly in the test. Navigating without the app, i.e. via button commands directly on the headphones, works well. However, those with larger hands would wish for a larger pressure surface. The quality of the microphones is impressive, even longer phone calls were always possible with the headphones without any connection or reception problems. A charging case, charging cable and rubber tips in two other sizes are included in the scope of delivery.
- Bluetooth: 5.0
- Battery: 4.5 hours (headphones only), 20 hours (with charging case)
- Price: 189 Euro
- Info: https://www.adidas.de/adidas-z.n.e.-01-anc-true-wireless-in-ear-kopfhorer
The tiny model in the test field weighs just 5.5 grams and sits perfectly in the ear, which is certainly helped by Jabra's EarGel design of the tips. Nevertheless, sound and telephony do not suffer from the compact shape. The app allows various customisation options, including the voice assistant. If you click through the app menus, you can set up your headphones so that you no longer need a button command to play your favourite playlist, just your own voice. Another good feature: in mono mode, you can listen to music or make phone calls in one ear while the other headphones are charging in the case. Pairing starts automatically when the headphones are removed from the charging socket. You can then connect the Elite 7 Active to two devices at the same time. The battery life is also impressive.
- Bluetooth: 5.2
- Battery: 8 hours (headphones only), 30 hours (with charging case)
- Price: 179,99 Euro
- Info: https://www.jabra.com.de/bluetooth-headsets/jabra-elite-7-active
Jabra Elite Active 75t
As with the Jabra Elite 7 Active model, the setting options via the Jabra app are impressive. The app is also required for firmware updates. Despite the slightly larger design, the headphones fit extremely well and firmly in the ear without pinching. The noise cancellation works on the same principle as the Adidas headphones. But with the rich sound of the Elite Active 75t, especially the bass, which is surprisingly powerful for such small devices, this is probably a secondary feature anyway. The simple and intuitive call control at the touch of a button is certainly a plus for anyone who uses the headphones for sport and for private or business calls. Interesting for indoor athletes: Jabra offers a two-year guarantee against sweat-related damage, the headphones are IP57 waterproof and dustproof.
- Bluetooth: 5.0
- Battery: 7.5 hours (headphones only), 24 hours (with charging case)
- Price: 179,99 Euro
- Info: https://www.jabra.com.de/bluetooth-headsets/jabra-elite-active-75t
Bang & Olufsen Beoplay E8 Rapha Edition
In collaboration with Bang & Olufsen, the British clothing brand also entered the electronics market as part of its indoor collection. Strictly speaking, however, the in-ear headphones are just a refined version of the existing Beoplay Sport range, packaged in the familiar Rapha look.
