There are plenty of sports headphones out there, but many are built by manufacturers who may not know the exact requirements of a sports person. But companies like Adidas have a better idea. More commonly associated with footwear and clothes, the sports giant has recently released a new pair of headphones – the Adidas RPT-01 headphones.

There’s no denying that music motivates and inspires you to work out. Think about it, as soon as your favourite tune plays, whether you’re in a bar, in your home or indeed in your car, the desire to move is undoubtedly tremendous. And there is copious research out there to back the claims. But not everyone wants to listen to your music so investing in a good pair of headphones is crucial whether you’re in or out of the gym.

Design
On first impressions, these lightweight headphones (they only weigh just over 200g) look pretty sleek and stylish. If you like to make a statement and cost isn’t a key (cost price £119.99), these Bluetooth noise-cancelling over-ear options will give you undeniable street-cred. Designed for cross-functional training, the Adidas RPT-01 is a fully equipped wireless over-ear headphone with 40-hours of playtime and super-fast USB-C charging.

Good hygiene has been factored in, too, as the headphones come with removable and washable knitted ear cushions and an inner headband to absorb sweat when you train. The non-fabric parts are sturdy and will withstand day-to-day handling.

The left ear cup has an ‘action’ button which allows you to customise shortcuts in the Adidas headphones app. Meanwhile, the right ear cup is equipped with a toggle that can be used to control volume, playback and other features. This side also holds the USB port. In addition to the headphones, the box holds a UCB charging cable and pocket-sized manual.

Comfort is paramount when it comes to headphones, and the Adidas RPT-01 have plenty of padding for a snug fit. They have a tight enough clamp to remain comfortable on the head without feeling your ears being compressed and blood being restricted to the area. A good few initial test-jumps in the air, and I knew they were not going to fall off my head. I didn’t have to wear mine fully extended, but there is an option to do so if you need to.

Using the Adidas RPT-01 headphones
The headphones connect to your listening device through Bluetooth 5.0, and I had no issues with the connection throughout. Easily chargeable via a USB port, the headphones have an impressive battery life of 40 hours.

There’s no quick charging facility, but it only takes a few hours to recharge them from empty, and it’s not like that’s going to happen very often. The simple multi-directional button, which also acts as the power and pairing functions, controls playback as well as answer and end calls. Super simple to use, it takes out the hassle of dealing with numerous complicated buttons.

Sound quality
During training, I often need a high-end sound to keep me motivated, and these headphones have plenty to offer. The sound quality is exceptional, in my opinion, and the bass is pretty decent. You would expect the bass extension to be good from sports headphones, and the Adidas RPT-01 certainly packs a punch. The mids is where the magic happens, and the one on this headset offers a natural presentation of sound.

The vocals were nothing short of being crystal clear and detailed. Gentle music may not sound good on these, but it doesn’t matter as the headphones are aimed at the active market. But those looking for high mids may be slightly disappointed as the high-frequency response is not as solid.

That said, it was great for my requirements since I listen to podcasts and audiobooks. Therefore, clarity in voices and vocals is key. I found no hollow-like sounds as I attentively listened to the sounds coming through the speakers.

Final thoughts
Granted, these headphones aren’t built for listening to the subtle nuances of music, but they do the trick for everyday purposes. With good battery life, decent sound quality and sweatproof removable and washable fabric covers, the Adidas RPT-01 headphones have plenty of pluses.

They are an excellent choice for those who want something to take to the gym or on runs. Hands down, they are one of the most comfortable lightweight headsets I have worn, and the design proved to be a head-turner.

Adidas RPT-01 headphones – Where and How?

The Adidas RPT-01 headphones are available now in a choice of three colours and retail at £119.99. For more information on the headphones, head over to www.adidasheadphones.com.

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