Plantronics BackBeat FIT ($129.99)
Who’s it for: Fitness devotee whose pounding workouts don’t comport with easily jettisoned ear buds.
Why we like it: In this price range, Plantronics’ sweat-proof and stylish BackBeat Fit (with Bluetooth and integrated mic) is unsurpassed. It’s unusually comfortable, offers solid bass as well as decent volume power, and respectable battery life in the 7 to 8 hour range.
What to know: The behind-the-neck cord can be annoying.