For some of us running to music can be motivational1. Also, it provides an opportunity to catch up on your playlist from podcasts to ebooks. So, we are taking a closer look at JBL Endurance Earphones for runners who like to run while listening to their favourite tunes or playlists.
Product Specifications
Connectivity: Bluetooth
Battery Life: Up to 50 hours
Adaptor included: Yes
Waterproof: Yes (endure 30 minutes at depths of up to 1.5 metres of salt and fresh water)
Extras: Carry case
Material: Plastic
Price: £89.99
Design and Features
The first thing to consider with earphones for running is to make sure they are going to stay in the ear’s and withstand the rigours of running. There is nothing more frustrating than having to stop and start your run to place your earphones back in your ear. That is one of the design features of the JBL Endurance Peak 3 Earphone that we really like. It has a hook that places around the back of the ear to make sure the earphones stay gripped with no movement or discomfort. Or as JBL like to refer to it as their ‘powerhook’, and ‘ergonomic twist lock’ which are just fancy terms for a simple ear hook. But it does show the earphone is built for the purpose of used during workouts.
The earphones are quite big in design. In fact, bigger than most earphone or earbud competitors which may put people off if they prefer a discrete look while running. The larger design is to accommodate the touch controls on the earphone, which we found to be difficult to use. I regularly found myself pressing pause instead of skip and vice versa. But the bulky design does provide it with a strong and robust feel that’s built to last. In the end, I opted for using the controls on my phone.
The JBL Endurance Earphones are also wireless. This is another key feature for runners who don’t want to be tangled up in wires whilst out on a run.
A summary of the key design and features are:
- Clip on design to grip the ear to prevent earphone from falling out.
- Touch controls which are a little difficult to use.
- Larger design which may not suit runners who want the discrete look.
- Strong and resilient design to cater for the rigours of running.
- Wireless earphones with bluetooth connection.
JBL Endurance Performance
The JBL Endurance Peak 3 provide good sound quality. The sound comes through clear and provides a good balance between the bass and tone. Although, there are better quality earphones on the market for pure music and sound quality. But these earphones are built for the runner in mind where the balance between sound quality and functionality has been struck.
The earphones block outside noise and interference very well providing a good listening experience whilst running.
Although not their primary use, they can also be used for taking phone calls. They’ve improved the speaker quality from previous JBL Endurance models. But let’s be honest, we are not considering the JBL Endurance for phone calls. Nor do we think making phone calls should be a priority when out running.
They are also waterproof, which is great if you plan on heading out for runs in all weathers. As a side note, the JBL Endurance Peak 3 can be used in water up to depth’s of 1.5 metres. This is not a critical feature for runners but if you also swim or enjoy water sports that it’s a nice added feature.
The battery life boasts up to 50 hours of use. So, you won’t have to worry about the battery going flat on longer runs. Also, you won’t have to keep it on re-charge between workouts.
A summary of the performance features:
- Good sound quality but there are better earphones on the market for pure sound quality.
- Good balance between sound quality and being functional for runners.
- Blocks outside noise and interference when running.
- Long battery life.
- Why would you want to take phone calls while running?
Our Verdict
The JBL Endurance Peak 3 Earphone is a good quality earphone for runners. It’s well designed to stay on the ear with minimal movement and discomfort. You are safe to use it in all weathers and running environments and it’s great at cancelling outside noise.
It’s double the price of older models such as the JBL Endurance. Our recommendation is that if you are solely going to use it for running or price conscious then the older model is a more sound investment. If you plan on taking advantage of the waterproof features to use in water then the JBL Endurance Peak 3 Earphone is a recommended buy.
Pro’s
- Excellent design to stay on ears while running.
- Comfortable to wear
- Designed to handle the rigours of running
- Good sound quality with excellent outside noise cancelling
- Long battery life
Con’s
- The design won’t suit people who want the discrete look
- Price reflects all the added features such as being able to use in water. May be cheaper alternatives if you prefer to use solely for running.
JBL Endurance Peak 3
JBL Endurance (older model):
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