Best Barefoot Runners Gear – Earbud Headphones with Memory Wire

One surprising thing about running barefoot has been the lack of need or desire to constantly have distraction while running. The sensory input from the feet is often either soothing or needs attention. Running form is best learned and solidified (which simply takes time and miles) without a lot of other rhythmic interference. However, there are times nowadays when I want music or audiobooks while I run. It can depend on things like speed, level of effort, distance traveled, and how I feel my form has been settling. And whether I want to pretend I’m dancing.

It is, of course, best to use earbuds only if not running on the open road, while needing to be aware of motorized vehicles. Most of my runs are on paths, and my biggest threats are usually bicycles and loose dogs. Although, I did almost get creamed by an Idaho Fish and Game golf cart zipping around a corner on the Wilson Ponds’ footpath yesterday. I may have to write them a letter… It could have been disastrous if it had been some of the slower walkers! There aren’t even supposed to be bikes on that section of the path, so no one is going to expect a hyper-accelerating golf cart coming out of the shrubs and over the bridge –

I was wearing my new earbuds then, the MEElectronics Sport-Fi M6 Noise Isolating In-Ear Headphones with Memory Wire (White). They are advertised as “noise reducing,” but fortunately they did not block out the sound of that miniature (hotrod?) engine. Still, I can say without reserve that they transfer a very good, clear sound. Here are other things I like about them:

• easy to form soft-coated wire to secure around ears
• moisture (i.e. sweat) resistant
• light weight
• plug part stays positioned in ears
• clip securing cord to garment
• reasonable price
• good sound quality

The earbuds come with a relatively stiff protective zipper case, a number of rubber pieces as options for the ear piece, and a tiny booklet with simple instructions on things like fitting and cleaning. There are no quick controls on the earbud cords, which I like, because my previous ones kept getting bumped by my movement and doing things that I had to fix.

I will probably not wear these much for non-active times, since the ear wire does make it a little more complicated to get them on and off. At home, I have to take earbuds off and on too often to want the extra hindrance.  But it is just that little extra hindrance that makes them work so well for longer periods of uninterrupted activity. After wearing them on several runs, I am very happy with them.