How to buy the best underwater MP3 player for MP3 swimming

Enhance your swim workouts with music underwater.

Previous audio technology like tapes and CDs were not friendly to water and were definitely not portable enough for use while swimming. MP3 players, on the other hand, use solid-state technology that can be sealed away from water and made small enough for a swimmer to wear without discomfort. Many people find the repetition of swimming boring, or just love listening to music or audiobooks whenever and wherever possible. Underwater MP3 players suit these needs admirably. There are several features to consider if you are in the market for a underwater MP3 player.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

1. Consider the type of sound system you want for your MP3 player. Older styles of underwater MP3 players had ear plugs that sealed the ears of a swimmer. These types of headphones worked fairly well, except when water leaks muffled the sound. Also, the ear plugs made it difficult to hear anything else while swimming. Newer underwater MP3 players use bone-inducing technology that transmits sounds through a swimmer's jaw or ear bone. This technology does not require anything to be placed in the ear and provides a clearer sound. Even better, it allows you to listen to the environment while the MP3 player is on. The bone-induction technology is much more expensive, but many people find the money well worth it. Bone-induction players do not work particularly well outside of the water.

2. Decide on how you would like to wear the underwater MP3 player. Underwater MP3 players have to stay on without the aid of hands or pockets. Many manufacturers have decided to create their devices to clip on to goggles or strap around the body. Others have built the MP3 players right into swim goggles. Having the MP3 player built goggles can be convenient. But not all styles of goggles are available and many swimmers already have their own favorite goggles. Also, if the goggle component breaks down, you will have to replace the MP3 player with the goggles.

3. Compare the capacity and music formats supported by the MP3 player you are considering. An underwater MP3 player with more memory can hold more songs. Remember, though, that selecting songs while swimming is not easy so a large selection makes it difficult to find your favorite song. Also, the larger capacity players tend to be bulkier. When swimming with an MP3 player, it is probably better trade capacity for less bulk. You should also look for a underwater MP3 player that supports more than just the MP3 format. This will prevent you from having to convert your music from one format to another just for your player. Other popular formats include WMA, ACC and OGG.

4. Consider the small extras when buying a underwater MP3 player. Make sure the controls that work well without having to look at them. Make sure it's not too bulky and that any cables that will not affect your swimming technique. Ensure that the battery life will last through your whole workout? Look for a player that's sturdy, with electronics sealed from water to last a long time.

Tips & Warnings

• Swimming while listening to audio will distract you and can make your swimming times less competitive.

• Listening to a underwater MP3 player can be distracting and you may not be as aware of other swimmers or objects.

References

• Gizmag; World's First Underwater MP3 Player Uses Bone Conduction; Mike Hanlon