When trying to get into the fitness game, it’s good to have all the help possible. In my case I try to use as much tech as possible to keep me entertained. But even those who aren’t tech heads like me rock headphones at the gym. Headphones can be a gift and a curse when it comes to fitness and working out. As you know music can help completing any task better.
You want great performing headphones that don’t get in your way when it comes to working out hardcore or just regular. When I had the chance to review the BlueAnt Pump HD Wireless headphones I jumped at the chance since I’ve been on the hunt for wireless headphones.
Design and Build
The BlueAnt Pump HD headphones are very simple looking. They are available in 3 colors. I have the black and blue ones. You’ll notice the behind the ear design right away. The two ear pieces are attached by a cord that is tangle free. there are no buttons on the cord. all the control buttons are located behind the right ear. while the ear pieces may look a little big and have a little weight to them they feel differently behind the ear. on the left ear piece you have the micro usb charging port. the port cover helps with the IP67 water resistant rating. the left side also has the microphone.
As for the material, the BlueAnt Pump HD’s have a kevlar coating over Teflon material. You feel the quality build. But overall it’s a waterproof design, meant to be able to take on sweat baths and rinsing to wash off the sweat
Experience
Setup
Bluetooth pairing was pretty easy with the Samsung Galaxy S5 and the HTC One M8. No problem. Just hold down the “play” button until the light starts blinking and then scan for it on your mobile device. Easy setup is always good.
Ready For The Hardest WorkoutTeflon coating and Kevlar shielding block water, salt, dust and sweat from entering the Pump, making it more rugged and longer lasting.
Sound
When it comes to headphones, sound quality is the main thing I look for. Especially when paying over $100 for them. Usually with Bluetooth earbuds you get somewhat of a flat sound with decent mids. With the BlueAnt Pump HD’s I was surprised to have a lot of bass. Even too much bass at times (depending on the track). If you have a tight fit (more on that in the next section), you get nice sound. If pumped up too high there’s a minor hiss that you probably won’t notice unless you concentrate. The sound is very strong on the Pump HD’s. So strong, that it can overshadow vocals and make them sound muddy.
But when you’re working out hardcore, you’re really not analyzing vocals and mids so much. You’re focused on loud and motivating music. I wish the Pump HD’s went a little louder. They are just right there. But they don’t have the “too loud” setting. I need that in the gym sometimes. But not a deal breaker though since for the most part, the tight fit helps keep out other noise.
Comfort
When first looking at the design of the Pump HD’s I thought they would be annoying behind my ear. They seemed bulky (they sort of are). But once you put them on, you don’t even notice them. You have to hook them around your ear. These are headphones that you have to sit down with for a few minutes to test out the ear tips and fit around the back of your head. It can make all the difference. The controls rest on the back of your right ear. It’s easy to press the buttons since your head makes for a reliable surface.
You don’t have to use the stabilizers (the hooks that go around the ear tip), but they help with the secure fit. The stabilizers come in just one size, so they might be too big or too small for some. I wish they would have included another size. They are also marked with the corresponding side to which they clip on (“R” or “L”). The flat side of the stabilizer goes against your inner ear. You can also use the clasp to make sure the cord doesn’t jump around out of place. You can do nearly anything and these headphones won’t come off.
Battery Life
The BlueAnt PUMP HD headphones are easy to charge through MicroUSB port. It comes with a cable in case you don’t already have one. I am not sure how long it takes to fully charge as there is no real indicator, but standby time on the headphones is awesome. I charged the headphones for up to 2.5 hours and it has lasted me for days. While I try to never leave the house without charging. I forgot to charge them in a 5-day span and they were ready to go when I powered them on.
BlueAnt promises 8 hour battery life and 2-week standby time. I personally wouldn’t risk not charging them and heading out to the gym. But as you can see from my little story, stuff happens and it’s great to know the PUMP HD can standby for a while.
Pricing and Availability:
What’s In the Box
- BlueAnt PUMP HD Wireless Bluetooth Sportbud Headphones
- USB cable
- ComfortSeal tips (S/M/L)
- Comply Premium Awareness tips
- Stabilizers
- Cable zip
I’ve seen the the BlueAnt PUMP HD earbuds range from $120 and up. You can buy them on Amazon, or the Apple Store. Some carrier stores such as AT&T and Verizon Wireless may have them in stock too.
[divider] [/divider]Conclusion
The BlueAnt PUMP HD design may scare some ladies off due to its bulk design. But once you wear the earbuds you appreciate the design as it helps stay in place in even the most intense running around, jogging and plain jumping up and down (I tried many scenarios).
If your workout regimen is very intense and you sweat profusely, I definitely recommend the PUMP HD’s as they can be rinsed off. While they can technically go under water, you may lose Bluetooth connectivity and have the music cut-off so I don’t recommend it.
But overall you get quality build headphones that can be your workout partner for a long while. They are comfortable and effective. I’ve yet to experience a skip / glitch in my music even at distances of 15-20 feet away! Totally recommend them.
