What features make the best lawnmower headphones for mowing? Choosing the right pair of lawn mowing headphones can provide ear protection from loud noise and enable an enjoyable listening experience. Audio quality and battery life are also important. You’ll want a pair with high-fidelity sound quality and good bass response for listening to music, podcasts, or your favorite radio stations while you work.
Next, the best headphones for lawn mowing should provide ample sound isolation. If you frequently work in a loud environment or use power mowing equipment, you may want a hearing protection headphone set. These models reduce external noise from power equipment and lawnmowers, helping to prevent ear fatigue and hearing loss. Finally, experts recommend choosing comfortable headphones with an ergonomic, lightweight design that won’t impede your movements when doing yard work. You may also want to consider wireless connectivity.
Keep reading to learn more about the best headphones for mowing and how to choose the best headphones for your audio needs.
Top Headphones for Mowing
#1 Gardtech Headphones
Award: TOP PICK
WHY WE LIKE IT: A high-quality closed design provides an excellent sound reduction rating, making this device suitable for mower and factory machine operators. It has a built-in stereo and an integrated 4GB SD card for entertainment.
[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]
- Integrated 4GB SD card
- Built-in FM radio
- Excellent 29 dB NRR
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]
- Lacks headband padding
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]
These Gardtech headphones combine hearing protection with entertainment, providing all-around performance. With a noise reduction rating (NRR) of 29 dB, this device is suitable for a variety of applications, including mowing, factory, and more. The device has circumaural ear cups that encompass the ears, blocking out background noise. With thick, soft ear cushions, this headset is quite comfortable. It has a remarkably lightweight design that is suitable for longer mowing sessions. However, the headband is not padded.
A digital FM radio keeps the user entertained during work. This device has a high-quality digital display, helping users to monitor the active radio station. It also has a memory function, remembering the last radio station chosen by the user. This headset comes with a built-in lithium-ion battery that offers hours of use before requiring recharging. A volume control knob enables adjusting settings easily. This device comes with a built-in 4GB SD card, so users can store thousands of mp3 songs.
#2 3M WorkTunes Connect + AM/FM Headphones
Award: HONORABLE MENTION
WHY WE LIKE IT: It has an integrated microphone, allowing users to make and receive calls effortlessly. This wireless headset features a built-in stereo and has an excellent 24 dB NRR.
[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]
- Excellent 24 dB NRR
- Built-in microphone for calls
- Built-in AM/FM radio
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]
- Needs AA batteries
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]
With an NRR of 24 dB, the 3M WorkTunes Connect + AM/FM headphones help reduce sound, so they are good for mowing and industrial applications. This device features Bluetooth tech, for streaming podcasts and music from mobile phones and other devices. The headset has an integrated microphone, allowing users to make voice calls, and it maintains hearing protection during calls. With large cushioned earcups, this device easily fits a wide variety of people. However, this unit uses high-maintenance AA batteries.
This headset boasts an AM/FM radio to keep the user entertained during work. A bass boost option will appeal to users who love bass-heavy music. It has audio assist technology, providing assistance and guidance during set up without taking the headset off the ears. With a matte black design, the unit will blend in easily with home and industrial equipment. This system also boasts a minimalist, ventilated headband that is lightweight and comfortable.
#3 Zohan EM037 Headphones
Award: BEST BATTERY LIFE
WHY WE LIKE IT: With advanced BLE 5.0 tech, this device pairs seamlessly to devices that are well away from the user. It has a cushioned headbeam and has leatherette-lined ear cushions that balance comfort with durability.
[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]
- Cushioned headband
- Excellent battery life
- 3.5mm audio input jack
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]
- Slow charging
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]
The Zohan EM037 headphones use advanced Bluetooth 5.0 technology, pairing seamlessly with devices within a range of up to 80 feet. This unit provides reliable connections and lossless audio streaming. It has large ear cups with leatherette-lined ear cushions that balance comfort with durability, and the earpads are replaceable. This device has a cushioned adjustable steel headband. Featuring on-ear controls, this device is easy to operate. However, this model’s charging time of about 4 hours is a bit slow.
This device has a brilliant black and green color scheme that enhances visibility in low light conditions, and it is also available in yellow. It has an excellent noise reduction rating of 25 dB, damping sound in applications ranging from mowing to construction and fireworks displays. The headphones have an excellent battery that runs for up to 40 hours on a single charge, and it has a 3.5mm audio input jack for connecting to computers and mobile devices.
#4 Protear Headphones
Award: BEST CONTROLS
WHY WE LIKE IT: Excellent on-ear controls enable adjusting the volume and navigating through stereo stations and music tracks. This headset boasts a 3.5mm interface for connecting to audio sources with a cord.
[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]
- Chargeable lithium-ion battery
- Built-in AM/FM radio
- 3.5mm interface
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]
- Lacks a microphone for calls
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]
These Protear headphones have a noise reduction rating of 25 dB and they are suitable damping sound in a variety of applications. The device has a remarkably lightweight design, with an adjustable headband. A built-in AMFM radio station helps users stay on top of the latest news. The headset has a radio channel memory function, saving up to 20 AM and 20 FM stations. This headset uses Bluetooth tech for streaming music for mobile phones and computers. However, it doesn’t have a microphone.
Featuring a high-quality metal frame, this device is durable. It has a pleasant red and black color scheme that will stand out. This model is also available in blue, yellow, and red, and its well-cushioned ear cups offer compatibility with a wide variety of individuals. This headset has on-ear controls for adjusting volume and navigating through stations and soundtracks easily. It has a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that supports wireless connectivity, while a 3.5mm interface supports wired connections.
#5 Flyoukki Headphones
Award: BEST FOLDABLE HEADPHONES
WHY WE LIKE IT: With a compact, folding design, this device is ideal for travel. It has a built-in stereo and has intuitive on-ear controls. This model uses disposable battery packs, eliminating the need for charging
[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]
- Remarkable lightweight, folding construction
- Cushioned, adjustable headband
- Intuitive on-ear controls
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]
- Small earmuffs
- Needs AA batteries
- Radio doesn’t support AM frequencies
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]
These Flyoukki headphones feature a stylish design that resembles regular music headphones. It has an adjustable headband with thick cushioning to fit comfortably in a wide variety of head shapes and sizes. This device has thick earpads with a durable lining, and it has a versatile design that is suitable for work, jogging, and leisure. However, the earmuffs on this model are small and may not be comfortable for some adults.
This headset uses AA batteries, providing power on the go without the need for constant recharging. A built-in FM radio helps users to catch up with their radio shows on the go. With built-in search and save features, this device allows users to navigate radio stations fast, and they can save a favorite station. This model uses two AA batteries, eliminating the need for frequent recharging. This headset is foldable, supporting hassle-free transportation, and it comes with a 3.5mm plug for simple connectivity.
#6 ProHear EM037 Headphones
Award: BEST HEADBAND PADDING
WHY WE LIKE IT: This headset has well-cushioned earpads and a heavily-padded head beam, providing the ultimate comfort. It uses BLE 5 tech and has excellent on-ear controls for hassle-free operation.
[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]
- Outstanding headband and ear cup cushioning
- Bluetooth 5.0 tech
- Excellent battery life
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]
- Relatively heavy
- Lacks radio
[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]
Designed for both hearing protection and media playback, the ProHear 037 headphones are suitable for a wide variety of users. This device features ABS plastic construction, providing lasting durability. Featuring Bluetooth 5.0 tech, this device connects seamlessly with a wide variety of devices and it enables lossless hi-fi streaming. The headset comes with a built-in 1100 mAh battery that provides up to 40 hours of music playback time. However, weighing 326g, this headset is heavier than other mowing headphones.
With large ear cups and heavily padded earpads, this device is very comfortable. It is suitable for lawn mowing, woodworking, landscaping, and other applications. The headset has excellent controls that remain sensitive even when the user is wearing work gloves. A noise reduction rating of 25 is perfect for mowing and other activities. This headset is available in black and orange, and it boasts a 3.5mm connector for plugging into computers and mobile devices with a cord.
Beginner’s Guide to Headphones for Mowing
What Are Headphones for Mowing?
Headphones for mowing are headphones or top earphones you can wear while using a powered lawn mower or other loud outdoor equipment. The best models for mowing and gardening might offer ear protection in noisy environments. They might also have features that let you select a level of noise isolation.
Because of their role in protecting against high levels of ambient sound, most headphones for mowing have an over-the-ear configuration. Over-ear headphones with a closed-back design can usually provide better passive noise isolation. Wireless headphones typically offer more convenience when maneuvering around power equipment, so many top-rated mowing headphones have a wire-free design. The same can be said of the leading bone conduction headphones, which leave your ears free to hear your surroundings.
Headphones for Mowing vs Headphones in General
Compared to headphones in general, the best models for mowing have to operate in louder environments and maintain sound quality for phone calls and music while offering some protection from high levels of ambient noise. Some of the premium neckband headphones work like this, but they rest around the neck and not the top of the head.
Depending on the mower or lawn and garden equipment you’re using, you may want specialized protective headphones that help reduce your exposure to environmental noise above 90dB. While regular earbuds and headphones for iPhones and mobile devices may employ various levels of noise-canceling technology, the best mowing headphones use both passive noise cancellation and active noise cancellation. That said, you’ll want to pick up a pair of the top headphones for teens, especially if they’re going to be mowing the lawn regularly.
Doubling as hearing protectors means that headphones for mowing may fit more snugly or be larger and have more foam padding than typical wireless or wired headphones for music. With multitasking and outdoor use in mind, many top-rated mowing headphones use simple physical controls and employ a wireless connection such as Bluetooth 5.0.
Like other headphones for music and hands-free headsets, the best mowing headphones provide high-quality sound for your favorite tunes. Also, like other headphones, some models carry an integrated microphone to enable easier hands-free calls, which can be a helpful feature when using your hands to control hedge-trimming equipment or riding a gas-powered lawnmower.
How Headphones for Mowing Work
Headphones for lawn mowing work like other headphones by taking an electronic audio signal and producing sound via small magnetic drivers, woofers, and tweeters in a pair of modules that fit in or over the ears. Because of their potential role as ear-protection devices for mowing and yard work, these outdoor headphones may use extra foam padding and have a more solid, closed-back design.
The best mowing headphones balance comfort and convenience, noise protection, and sound quality. Any pair of noise-canceling headphones may work well at reducing distractions from typical street-corner ambient noise, but protective headphones for mowing typically need passive noise isolation. Lawn equipment can reach over 90 decibels of noise, so a good set of protective headphones is essential if you routinely use power mowers and other loud machinery.
Active and dynamic noise cancellation features can only filter sound up to a certain level. Hence, experts recommend closed-back headphones when working with loud machinery like the average lawnmower or gas leaf blower. These noise-isolating headphones often use an over-the-ear design with plenty of padding to provide adequate protection for mowing. Alternatively, they may employ an in-ear design that fits snugly enough to simulate earplugs.
Wireless and wired headphone options can work well for mowing, but wireless units may allow more maneuverability and reduce the risk of cords becoming tangled or caught. Wired models use a headphone jack connection, a USB or USB-C connection, or various proprietary cables such as a lightning connector for Apple devices.
Should You Buy New Headphones for Mowing?
Lawn mowing equipment is loud. Most power mowers and leaf blowers can easily exceed the recommended noise levels for occupational health and safety. Nearly all gas-powered lawnmowers and most electric weed whackers produce a high-enough peak noise level to make adequate ear protection necessary.
The right headphones provide important hearing protection for lawn mowing. They can also make outdoor work less of a chore by allowing you to listen to music or your favorite audiobooks and podcasts while you mow the lawn. If you just started using a new riding mower or any gas-powered lawn equipment, you might find it a great time to upgrade your headphones. A new set of Bluetooth 5.0 hearing protection headphones can add convenience while helping you avoid ear fatigue and hearing loss.
You might also want to upgrade to a newer set of headphones for mowing if you’re looking for additional features such as built-in radios or memory foam ear cups.
Compared to older headphones for mowing, the latest models allow for a better audio experience with more balanced sound and superior noise isolation. The latest wireless models also benefit from improvements in battery life and connectivity. If you’ve switched to a newer mobile phone with no audio input jack, a pair of wireless or Bluetooth headphones for mowing can save you the trouble of remembering an adapter dongle.
You might also find useful features, such as an aware mode or transparency mode. Available on certain headphones, this mode dials down the active noise cancellation so that you can listen to your surroundings for safety. This can be an essential feature when choosing headphones for mowing.
Are Headphones for Mowing Worth Buying?
- New Lawnmower: If you’ve recently gotten a new, powered lawn mower, wood-chipper, riding mower, or another piece of landscaping machinery, you might find it a good time to upgrade your headphones to provide more hearing protection as well.
- New Mobile Device: A new mobile device can offer improved convenience with Bluetooth and wireless pairing, and it also may lack a 3.5mm auxiliary input jack. Plus, you may need upgraded headphones to take advantage of new features like hi-res audio or virtual surround sound.
- Frequently Using Power Equipment: If you routinely use a riding mower or gas-powered lawn equipment, you may find that the right noise-canceling headphones combine much-needed ear protection with welcome entertainment during outdoor chores. An average gas lawnmower hits 90 decibels of noise, well above the OSHA-recommended limit of 85 decibels.
- Brush Clearance or Landscaping Projects: If you’re taking on a new outdoor project, the right headphones can help relieve the monotony while protecting against ear fatigue and even helping reduce the risk of permanent hearing damage.
Why Headphones for Mowing Might Not Be for You
- You Don’t Use Gas-Powered Equipment: You might think noise-canceling headphones for mowing would be unnecessary if you don’t use a gas-powered lawnmower or leaf blower. However, most electric lawn equipment also gets loud enough to make it difficult to listen to regular earbuds.
- Concerns About Fit and Comfort: Some may have concerns about the comfort of headphones and great wireless earbuds that provide noise protection and play audio. While some models ideal for mowing is more like typical safety earmuffs in this regard, others have more adjustability, meaning you can usually get a great fit.
How Long Do Headphones for Mowing Last?
Headphones and earbuds generally last from two to five or more years, depending on use, storage, and quality. Cheap travel earbuds and gym headphones tend to have shorter lifespans than audiophile headphones or mixing headphones. The best mowing headphones will often be among the most durable headphones in terms of materials and construction. Made for outdoor usage and with ample padding to afford hearing protection, these headphones and headsets can withstand casual drops and routine handling better than some more indoor-focused models.
As headphones age, they tend to show wear on the foam padding and speaker surrounds. Moving parts such as the hinges between ear cups and headbands can also wear out.
Wireless and battery-powered headphones have additional complexity and might require updates or repairs sooner than wired models. Numerous factors influence how long a rechargeable battery lasts, but as a general guideline, most current 800-1100 mAh lithium-ion batteries advertise at least 1000 and up to 1500 charge cycles under normal use conditions.
To help keep your noise protection headphones for mowing working as long as possible, experts suggest storing them somewhere cool and dry and avoiding extremely dusty conditions. For extra peace of mind, choose a set of mowing headphones or electronic ear muffs that have an IP67 or above rating for dust and water resistance.
How to Choose the Headphones for Mowing
Various factors can help you choose the best pair of headphones for mowing your lawn and other outdoor activities. You’ll want to consider what type of lawn equipment you use, how much time you spend listening to headphones outdoors, and whether you need features, like a built-in digital radio, LCD screen, or physical buttons. You might also want to account for what kind of external device you use since some headphones support features like virtual surround sound and dynamic noise cancellation when paired with a compatible device.
Best Headphone for Mowing Key Factors
1. What Type of Lawn Equipment Are You Using?
The level of hearing protection you’ll need depends partly on what kind of lawn and landscaping equipment you’ll be using. The average lawnmower with a small gas engine can get loud enough to overwhelm standard earbuds. Still, you may not need a set of OSHA-approved safety earmuffs if you’re using a push-mower or electric hedge trimmer.
2. What External Devices Do You Use?
You might want to consider the audio source you plan to use. If you’re using a newer mobile phone, you might find it convenient to use Bluetooth 5.0 headphones. A radio or an MP3 player, on the other hand, might work better with a 3.5mm aux cord.
3. What Are Your Comfort Preferences?
The best mowing headphones should be comfortable, especially if you use them for ear protection and entertainment. Some users find over-the-ear headphones more comfortable, while others prefer compact earbud-type headphones. Foam-based ear cushions keep your ears warm but maybe less comfortable in hot weather.
4. What Types of Music and Media Do You Prefer?
The best headphones may also depend on what music and media you like to listen to while mowing. Key specs for listening to audiobooks may include decibels of noise reduction and hours of battery life, while audiophiles and music lovers may look for balanced sound quality with accurate frequency response.
