Audio Components

Best Audio Components for Active Lifestyles in the UK: Headphones, Earbuds & Portable Speakers

Why the right audio components matter when you’re on the move

Ever tried to hit a new personal best with a tangled cable or a pair of earbuds that fall out every mile? Frustrating, right? Choosing the right audio components can turn a good run into a great one, make a commute feel shorter, and keep you entertained while you work out or relax. In this guide I’ll walk you through the best options available in the UK — with a particular focus on products stocked by stores like RunningXpert and Menkind — and give practical tips so you buy the gear that actually improves your day-to-day life.

What counts as an “audio component” for active users?

When I say audio components, I mean more than just headphones. Think true wireless earbuds, bone‑conduction headsets, open‑ear designs, waterproof swim buds, and compact Bluetooth speakers. These devices differ by fit, durability, battery life, and sound profile. Some are tuned for bass-heavy beats to push you through a gym session, while others prioritise ambient awareness so you can hear traffic on a run. Choosing the right type is like picking the right pair of trainers — it depends on how you move.

Spotlight: RunningXpert — gear for runners and outdoor athletes

RunningXpert specialises in products that cater to runners and outdoor enthusiasts, and its line-up is cleverly tailored for active lifestyles. Their range includes open‑ear and true wireless options such as JVC’s Open Ear True Wireless Headphones and Shokz models like the Openrun Pro2 Mini and Openfit Air. These are designed to stay put during motion, resist sweat, and provide clear audio without cutting you off from your surroundings.

Open‑ear and bone‑conduction options from RunningXpert

Bone‑conduction headsets like Shokz Openrun Pro2 Mini and the Shokz Openfit Air let sound reach your inner ear through vibrations on the cheekbones, leaving your ear canals open. Why does that matter? It’s perfect for runners who want to hear cars and fellow pedestrians. Think of it like wearing sunglasses for your ears — you get protection (audio) without blocking essential cues from the outside world.

True wireless picks for performance and comfort

RunningXpert also lists true wireless earbuds such as the JVC Nearphone TWS and Hakii Moon Bluetooth TWS headsets. These are typically compact, sweat‑resistant, and engineered for a snug fit. If you prefer sealed earbuds for deeper bass and immersive sound on a treadmill or indoors, these are solid choices. Many models are lightweight and provide several hours of playback — perfect for long training sessions or commuting.

Spotlight: Menkind — fun, portable audio and novelty speakers

Menkind leans toward lifestyle audio — quirky, stylish, and mobile. Their catalogue includes Red5 wireless speakers and earbuds, the 360 Surround Sound T100, and fun form factors like the Wireless Orb Speaker. If you want an audio component that doubles as a conversation piece at home or on a weekend outing, Menkind’s speakers are worth a look. They tend to be user‑friendly and make great gifts for someone who wants more personality from their tech.

Portable speakers for social and home use

Think of Menkind wireless speakers as the portable hi‑fi that doesn’t take itself too seriously. From compact orbs to cylindrical 360‑degree models, these speakers deliver room‑filling sound for small gatherings and picnics. They’re great for living rooms or garden parties where you want a tidy setup without wrestling with cables or a long amplifier chain. Most of these models will give you several hours of playback and Bluetooth range of roughly 30 ft, so you can roam around the room while your playlist keeps playing.

Budget friendly earbud options from lifestyle brands

Menkind also carries affordable true wireless earbuds and basic headsets from brands like Red5 and SBS. These usually focus on ease of use, decent call quality, and straightforward mobile pairing. If you’re buying a first pair or want a backup set for travel, they’re a pragmatic pick — good value without a steep learning curve.

Other UK retailers to consider for audio components

While RunningXpert and Menkind cover a lot of ground, the UK market has several retailers that specialise in audio or offer broad selections: Currys, Richer Sounds, John Lewis, Amazon UK, AO.com, and specialist hi‑fi shops. Currys and John Lewis are great for hands‑on testing in store (if you want to trial fit and comfort), Richer Sounds excels with specialist advice for hi‑fi and home audio, and Amazon UK and AO.com are convenient for fast search and customer reviews. If you’re hunting for in‑depth expertise on high‑end components, look to dedicated shops like Sevenoaks or independent hi‑fi dealers.

Why you might choose a specialist over a high‑street shop

Specialist hi‑fi shops often stock curated lines with better acoustic tuning, higher build quality, and knowledgeable staff who can explain sound signature differences. If you’re after studio‑level clarity or building a compact home audio system, that tailored advice is priceless. For everyday runners or casual listeners, the high‑street and online giants offer great value choices that are plenty good enough.

How to choose the right headphones or speaker for your lifestyle

Choosing audio gear is a bit like choosing the right coat: you need to consider weather, fit, and how long you’ll be wearing it. Here are the main decision points I always check before buying.

Fit and comfort

For runners and gym users, fit is king. Earbuds should stay put during movement — look for secure earfins or multiple ear tip sizes. Open‑ear designs and bone‑conduction headsets are brilliant if you prefer to keep your ears open to the environment. Try to find options that weigh just a few ounces so you barely notice them on long runs.

Sound profile and use case

Do you crave pounding bass for HIIT sessions or a balanced sound for podcasts? In‑ear buds usually deliver stronger bass, while open‑ear and bone‑conduction models emphasise clarity and environmental awareness. For casual home listening and small parties, a portable speaker with 360‑degree sound will serve you better than a single‑driver pocket speaker.

Durability and water resistance

If you sweat a lot or run in wet weather, IP ratings matter. Many sport buds offer sweat and splash resistance, commonly rated IPX4 or higher. For swimming, specialised waterproof earbuds (look for IPX7) are available — devices from RunningXpert like Shokz Openswim Pro are designed for water use. Always match the rating to your intended activity: light showers need a lower rating than full submersion.

Battery life and charging

Battery life determines how long you can go between charges. Most true wireless earbuds give between 4 and 10 hours per charge, with charging cases extending total time. Portable speakers vary wildly, but many compact models pack 6–12 hours of playtime. Think about your longest typical outing — if your run is a few hours, even a modestly long earbud battery will do; for long travel days, aim for earbuds with case top‑ups.

Bone‑conduction vs in‑ear: which should you pick?

Bone‑conduction headsets, like the Shokz series found at RunningXpert, vibrate sound through your cheekbones. They’re brilliant when situational awareness is essential. Imagine having your favourite podcast playing while still being able to listen for car horns or a friend calling your name. In‑ear buds, however, seal your ear canal for better isolation and punchier bass — great for noisy gyms or flights. The choice depends on where and how you’ll use the gear.

Pros and cons in plain terms

Bone‑conduction pros: safety, comfort for long wears, no ear fatigue from deep insertion. Cons: typically less bass and lower maximum volume. In‑ear pros: superior bass and sound isolation. Cons: can block outside sounds and sometimes cause discomfort during long sessions. Think of it as choosing between a convertible and a coupe — both get you there, but the experience differs.

Top picks by activity — running, gym, swimming, social audio

Let’s match gear to activities so you don’t overpay for features you won’t use.

For runners and outdoor training

Open‑ear and bone‑conduction headsets are often the best match. Models like Shokz Openrun Pro2 Mini combine a secure fit with safety. If you prefer sealed sound, go for sweat‑resistant true wireless options like JVC Nearphone TWS, which balance comfort with better bass. Look for models that stay comfortable for hours and maintain Bluetooth range of roughly 30 ft so your phone can stay in a run belt.

For gym and indoor workouts

Sealed true wireless earbuds with strong bass and a snug fit are ideal. Adidas Z.N.E 01 ANC and Hakii Moon earbuds are good examples for people who want immersive music and active noise cancellation for busy gyms. Make sure the ear tips provide a secure seal to prevent dropouts during jumps and lifts.

For swimming and water sports

Waterproof earphones such as Shokz Openswim Pro are built to handle submersion and pool sessions. These specialised models allow you to listen to playlists underwater — useful for lap swimmers. Confirm that the product is rated for full immersion (IPX7 or higher) and suitable for your stroke style.

For social listening and parties

Menkind Red5 360 Surround Sound T100 or Wireless Orb Speaker are fun, portable options that fill a small room or outdoor spot with sound. They’re convenient for barbecues, picnics, or kitchen dance sessions. If you want bass and volume, choose larger portable speakers or models with passive radiators for richer low end.

Practical tips for getting the best sound and longevity

Buying is just the start. Treat your audio gear well and it will serve you longer and sound better.

Fit tests and ear tips

Try several ear tip sizes to find the best seal. An improper seal kills bass and reduces call quality. If you buy online, check for retailers that include multiple tip sizes or have easy exchanges.

Clean and store properly

Keep earbuds and charging cases free of earwax and grit — a cotton swab and a small brush go a long way. Store your headphones in their case to protect them from dust and accidental knocks. For bone‑conduction headsets, wipe down contact points after sweaty sessions.

Firmware and app updates

Many modern audio components improve over time via firmware updates. Connect to the manufacturer’s app occasionally to update drivers, tweak EQ presets, and access new features. Think of it as software sharpening your hardware’s sound.

Final buying checklist — what to look for at a glance

Before you click “buy,” run through this checklist I use myself: will they stay on during activity, are they sweat or waterproof for my use, is the battery life sufficient for my longest session, do I prefer isolation or situational awareness, and is the price sensible for the feature set? If the answer checks out, you’re ready to enjoy better sound every day.

Conclusion

Choosing the right audio components in the UK doesn’t have to be a headache. Whether you’re shopping RunningXpert for running‑optimised headsets or exploring Menkind for fun portable speakers, the key is matching the device to your lifestyle. Think about fit, sound profile, durability, and battery life like you would when picking gear for any activity. With the right choice, your music will motivate runs, improve workouts, and elevate everyday moments — one great track at a time.