7 Best Ski Helmet Headphones 2024
When did skiing and music first pair up?
Did it start with John Denver in the 70s?
Or maybe it was Ski Ballet?
Whatever the reason, there’s no doubt that great music can make a day of skiing even more enjoyable.
Today, you can easily add headphones to your ski helmet and enjoy hours of beats on the hill.
Whether looking for your zen moment, smashing out bumps to an epic baseline, or listening to beats in the park, only the best ski helmet headphones will get you in the zone.
For skiers and snowboarders who find their groove when the melodies hit just right, the marriage of music and mountain has become an integral part of their experience.
So, strap in and pack your bag because the slopes are calling, and this year’s headphone lineup is ready to turn your mountain escapades into an unforgettable concert on piste (or off).
7 Best Ski Helmet Headphones
Here are the 7 best ski helmet headphones available in 2023
- Best Overall Ski Helmet Headphones – JBL Free II
- Best Budget Ski Helmet Headphones – Outdoor MasterSnow-BT01
- Best For Phone Calls – Wildhorn Alta Bluetooth
- Best Univerals Helmet Inerts – Outdoor Technology Chips 3.0
- Best For GPS Tracking- Aleck 006
- Best For Group Talk – Sena Snowtalk 2
- Best Ski Helmet – POC Obex Communication
1 – Best Overall Ski Helmet Headphones – JBL Free II
- Battery Life: 6 hours
- Microphone: Yes
- Waterproof: IPX4
The JBL Free II are the perfect wireless Headphones to enhance your time on the hill. With their long-lasting battery life, you won’t be worried about charging it up after every run.
With their in-ear style, JBL delivers excellent sound quality and fits well underneath a ski helmet. The microphone lets you take calls on the go, and the IPX4 waterproofing ensures you can ski without worrying about damage to your wireless headphones. Additionally, the intuitive glove-friendly controls on the earbud make it easy to control your music or calls. Whether you’re out skiing for a few hours or all day long, the JBL Free II will keep you going without needing a recharge!
2 – Best Budget Ski Helmet Headphones – Outdoor Master Snow-BT01
- Battery Life: 15 hours
- Microphone: Yes
- Waterproof: IP45
The OM Snow-BT01 are budget-friendly Bluetooth Headphones with excellent sound quality and robust bass. Its 15-hour battery life ensures you can listen for hours without recharge. And its IP45 sweat-resistant material protects it from the elements, making it ideal for use in any weather condition. The glove-friendly controls make it easy to manage your music and calls.
3 – Best For Phones – Wildhorn Alta Bluetooth
- Battery Life: 10 hours
- Microphone: Yes
- Waterproof: IP45
The Wildhorn Alta Bluetooth helmet speakers are an excellent choice for those who like staying connected on the slopes. The earpads fit comfortably and snugly into your helmet without sacrificing protection or comfort. You can take calls and control your music on the fly with a simple button click. The Bluetooth 5.0 technology is reliable and has excellent sound quality for those long rides downhill. The 10-hour battery life also ensures you can shred the slopes all day without recharging your speakers!
The Wildhorn Alta Bluetooth helmet speakers will keep you shredding in style and comfort. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, they will meet your audio needs!
4 – Best Helmet Inserts – Outdoor Technology Chips 3.0
- Battery Life: 13 hours
- Microphone: Yes
- Waterproof: N/A
The Outdoor Tech Chips 3.0 speakers give you the ultimate audio quality. An upgrade from the previous outdoor tech chips 2.0, these top-notch ski and snowboard helmet inserts provide premium sound quality with 40mm speaker drivers, fast charging via USB-C cable and an impressive 13 hours of playtime on a single charge. The Chips are waterproof with an IP45 rating, meaning you can enjoy your music even in wet and snowy conditions. Whether on the slopes or just enjoying outdoor tunes, you’ll love the Outdoor Tech Chips 3.0 helmet inserts!
5 – Best For GPS – Aleck 006
- Battery Life: All Day
- Microphone: Yes
- Waterproof: IPX4
The Aleck 006 is the perfect balance of audio quality and strength and is one of the most advanced ski helmets with built-in speakers on the market. This helmet features GPS to help you locate friends on the slopes, an IPX4 waterproof rating, and strong battery life that lasts all day. The Aleck 006 also features a built-in microphone and a two-way communication option. With these features combined, you can stay in touch with your friends while skiing or snowboarding without any hassle. The sound quality is excellent. The speakers provide clear audio for enjoying your favorite jams on the slopes. If you’re looking for a ski helmet with GPS and speakers, the Aleck 006 is a perfect choice.
6 – Best For Groups- Sena Snowtalk 2
- Battery Life: 6.5 hours
- Microphone: Yes
- Waterproof: N/A
If you’re looking for a helmet with speakers for groups, Sena Snowtalk 2 is an excellent choice. Thanks to its wide range of up to 700 meters (760 yards), riders can easily share their skiing or snowboarding adventures with friends or family. The Snowtalk 2 allows you to connect up to 4 people and provides excellent audio quality with its 9mm speakers. The Bluetooth intercom also contains an external microphone that easily attaches to the helmet straps for more transparent communication. Sena’s Advanced Noise Control™ reduces wind noise while on the mountain. Its lithium battery provides 6.5 hours of talk time before needing a recharge.
7 – Best Ski Helmet – POC Obex Communication
- Battery Life: 8 hours
- Microphone: Yes
- Waterproof: N/A
Combine your safety with the latest audio technology and get the POC Obex Communication. This helmet is equipped with speakers and a microphone for two-way communication. It is the best overall Bluetooth ski helmet.
POC, a renowned ski helmet manufacturer with a rich history of producing high-quality helmets, has gained a stellar reputation among skiers worldwide.
The Obex is equipped with the MIPS protection system to ensure safety, effectively reducing the risk of injury during side impacts. Its size adjustment system allows for effortless customization, providing a perfect fit.
Wired Vs. Wireless Ski Helmet Headphones
Wireless skiing and snowboarding headphones are more convenient and compact, but check the battery life and remember that the connection isn’t always the best in the mountains.
While many headphones are shifting to wireless, many great wired options remain. Wired headphones have an advantage because you never have to worry about battery life. But ensure you have a convenient spot for your device so the wires don’t get in the way.
Type Of Ski Helmet Headphones
There are many different options for ski and snowboard helmet headphones. Some have better audio quality, some have a more user-friendly intercom system, and others have long-lasting battery life.
The following section will explain what features and qualities to look out for when buying headphones for skiing.
What to Look for in Ski Helmet Headphones
Here is a list of things to consider when buying ski helmet headphones.
Wireless Headphones
I recommend choosing wireless headphones with Bluetooth connectivity. They are more convenient and safer than wired headphones.
Audio Quality
Sound quality should be top-notch – clear audio without distortion at high volumes. For the best listening experience, consider in-ear headphones like the JBL Free II.
The helmet-insert headphones are fabulous for ease of use and comfort, but they offer relatively poor sound quality versus in-ear headphones.
Battery Life
The battery life of wireless headphones can vary significantly, so check this before you buy. Look for models with long-lasting batteries – at least 12 hours or more. Remember to factor in charging time too.
Easy Volume Control & Design
Many ski helmet headphones have push-button controls. These can get confusing when there are only two buttons and a myriad of commands. The more straightforward the interface, the easier it is to remember how to operate the headphones.
Durability & Comfort
A good snowboard helmet must withstand harsh weather conditions, such as heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures, without compromising functionality or comfort. Comfort is essential, especially if worn for extended periods. The inserts should fit comfortably in the ear flaps without discomfort.
Connectivity
Bluetooth technology allows seamless connection and excellent sound quality. Bluetooth 5.0 provides improved range and battery life, while Bluetooth 5.1 adds directional audio capabilities for a truly immersive experience.
Price
Price is usually last on the list, but it should still be considered when buying skiing and snowboarding headphones. Investing in a more expensive model can provide better sound quality, extra features, and improved durability – but it may not be necessary if you don’t need the advanced technology.
The good news is that most budget-friendly models are available at reasonable prices and offer decent performance. So make sure to do your research before making a purchase!
Conclusion
No matter what type of ski helmet headphones you choose, ensure they meet your needs and provide a comfortable fit. Consider factors like battery life, waterproofing, and microphone before purchasing. Your safety should be non-negotiable when skiing or snowboarding—invest in a high-quality audio-ready helmet first, and then add a pair of headphones that fit your style and budget. Awareness of your surroundings is critical to a safe experience on the slopes, so ensure you get quality audio helmet headphones that won’t let you down.
FAQ
What are the best ski helmet headphones?
The best ski helmet headphones are the JBL Free II. These in-ear Bluetooth headphones provide superior audio quality and exceptional Bluetooth connectivity. The Free II also has an impressive 8-hour battery life and is waterproof, making it perfect for the hill and your ski or snowboard helmet.
Do I need a special helmet for ski helmet headphones?
Yes, you must have an audio-ready snow helmet when purchasing helmet earphones. Audio-compatible ski helmets have a pocket in the ear flap where you can insert the headphones. Alternatively, you can choose low-profile in-ear headphones.
Are ski helmet headphones waterproof?
Many ski helmet headphones are waterproof, offering IPX4 sweat-resistant or higher ratings.
Are their wired headphones for ski helmets?
Yes, there are wired headphones for ski helmets available. I did not include them in the list because Bluetooth headphones are a better option for skiing.
Are ski helmet headphones safe?
Yes, ski helmet headphones are safe. All the options included in our list are Bluetooth cordless headphones and do not pose the risk that wired headphones might. Most options offer some form of weatherproofing and are designed to fit into the ear pad pockets of audio-ready snow helmets.
