The Best Bike Headphones of 2025: Sony WF-1000XM5 – And Why They’re On Sale Now
(Photo Josh Ross/Velo)
Updated October 15, 2025 12:23PM
Finding the right headphones for cycling can be tricky. Most of us enjoy riding with music, but the ideal headphones need to perform both on and off the bike. Over the years, I’ve tested countless options, and I’m constantly updating my recommendations.
Bone conduction headphones are a solid choice for situational awareness. Though, many cyclists prefer having a versatile pair that excels in multiple scenarios. If you’re leaning towards wireless earbuds, you’ll want a set that stays secure, delivers quality sound, offers noise cancellation for everyday use, and boasts a reliable microphone for indoor training.
My latest round of testing for 2025 led me to the Sony WF-1000XM5 as a top pick. And right now, they’re available at an incredible discount.
Sony WF-1000XM5 (54% Off!)
[Image of Sony WF-1000XM5 headphones – Photo Sony]
I don’t judge bike headphones solely on audiophile-grade sound quality. Your priority while riding should always be awareness of your surroundings.That said, when choosing earbuds, I do expect them to perform well in all aspects of your life.
the Sony WF-1000XM5s truly impressed me with their sound.While Apple AirPods Pro 3 and Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 are excellent choices for many, the Sonys elevate the listening experience to another level. You can practically feel the individual notes of each instrument.
On the Bike: Performance That Matters
But how do they perform during a ride? I recently finished a grueling hour-long Zwift race, and let me tell you – I left it all on the virtual road. Despite the intense effort and resulting sweat, thes headphones didn’t budge. They are remarkably secure.
I also didn’t have to fiddle with the noise cancellation. Frequently enough,a fan blowing directly on you can disrupt noise-canceling technology. The Sony’s noise reduction remained consistent, and I could effortlessly control my music using Google Gemini voice commands.
this level of performance aligns with the typical price point. At $328, they’re a step above Google and Apple’s offerings, and you’d expect superior performance. However,I discovered a fantastic deal: refurbished units on Amazon are currently available for half price. Don’t hesitate – grab them before they’re gone!
Hear’s a speedy breakdown of why the Sony WF-1000XM5s are a great choice for cyclists:
* Secure fit: Stay put even during intense workouts.
* Superior Sound Quality: Enjoy a rich and immersive listening experience.
* Effective Noise Cancellation: Block out distractions without compromising safety.
* Reliable microphone: Clear interaction for indoor training and calls.
* Sweat Resistance: Built to withstand rigorous activity.
ultimately, investing in quality headphones can significantly enhance your cycling experience. The Sony WF-1000XM5s offer a compelling combination of performance, comfort, and now, affordability.
