10 Best Ski Helmet Headphones [2024 Review]

We use affiliate links and may receive a small commission on purchases. Read more about us.

If you’re an avid skier like me, you’ll know that having the right gear can make or break your experience on the slopes, and that you’ll have more fun with the best ski helmet headphones.

And if you’re a music lover, you’ll know that there’s nothing like listening to your favorite tunes while you ski.

That’s where ski helmet headphones come in – they allow you to listen to music without sacrificing your safety, or freezing and stopping working. You’ll want to ensure it pairs with your phone or ski smartwatch.

| TL;DR From Author & Physical Therapist

Experience high-definition sound and deep bass on the slopes with the Wildhorn Alta Wireless Bluetooth Headphones. These headphones are designed for extreme cold, and provide a hassle-free way for you to listen to HD music while you’re skiing. They’re awesome.

Tired of wires? Drop in helmet headphones rock.

When it comes to finding the best ski helmet headphones, there are a few things you should consider:

  • Safety
  • Compatibility
  • Sound Quality
  • Comfort

Trust me, headphones are an essential item that often gets overlooked – music can make a huge difference to your mood, motivation, performance, and how much fun you have while skiing or snowboarding.


👉 Quick Verdict for Best Ski Helmet Headphones

Check out this quick list of our top picks if you’re in a hurry, or continue scrolling to see our full list with in-depth reviews.

Overall Best Performance
Wildhorn Alta Wireless Bluetooth, Drop-in

Wildhorn Alta Wireless Bluetooth, Drop-in

  • Premium balanced sounds 
  • Crisp hands free calling
  • Universally compatible 
  • Intuitive design 
  • RUGGED CONSTRUCTION WITH ALL DAY PLAYTIME

What we liked:  Designed by skiers, shred the slopes listening to your favorite tunes in high-definition sound with the Alta Bluetooth Helmet Speakers. Using 40mm Drivers and a premium Bluetooth 5.0 wireless chipset, the Alta wireless helmet headphones deliver balanced dynamic sound with deep bass at any volume level

Note: 10 hours of playtime. 

Pros
  • Skier Designed
  • 40 mm drivers
  • Deep Bass
Cons
  • Slightly thick in helmet
  • Pricey
Runner Up
Smith ALECK Nunchucks

Smith ALECK Nunchucks

  • 40mm titanium drivers
  • Choose the open channel Party Mode or Push-to-Talk Mode for the group. 
  • 18-hour USB-C rechargeable lithium-polymer battery
  • Universal helmet fit

What we liked:  Thinner and more comfortable than its predecessor, the Nunchucks are low-profile and lightweight so they are compatible with any audio-ready snow helmet—and on the DL

Note: Helmets from SMITH, GIRO, SWEET PROTECTION, BERN, SALOMON, PRET, MARKER, ATOMIC, K2, ANON and more are compatible.

Pros
  • Universal helmet fit
  • 18 hour rechargeable 
  • 1 hour charge
Cons
  • Pricey
  • Can't ship via APO
Best Bang for Your Buck
Unigear Bombing Ski Helmet Speakers

Unigear Bombing Ski Helmet Speakers

  • TRUE WIRELESS & BLUETOOTH 
  • GLOVE-FRIENDLY BUTTON SYSTEM
  • PROPRIETARY HDR AUDIO TECH
  • LOUDER VOLUME & LONGER BATTERY LIFE
  • 365 DAYS 100% SATISFACTION

What we liked:  DROP in - Say goodbye to the earphones that spontaneously knot themselves. The Unigear Wireless Bluetooth headphones adopt the latest Bluetooth 5.0 to maintain a stable connection within ten meters and a faster transmission speed. As a result, you can enjoy conversations and music with no audio dropouts or interruptions.

Note: And the earphones will effortlessly fit into your helmet slot. Compatible with the following helmets with audio insert slots: Bern, Giro, Smith, Anon, Pro-TEC, Bolle, and more.

Pros
  • Loud
  • Great Price
  • Stable Bluetooth
Cons
  • Hard to work with mitten
  • Heavy
  • Bulky

Morgan’s Electric Heated Mittens Review Video

If you’re planning an epic ski trip in really cold weather, you might want to think about the magic that is a battery powered ski glove. 👎 🧤


10 Quality Ski Helmet Headphones

To make your search easier, we’ve rounded up the best ski helmet headphones on the market. Whether you’re looking for wireless or wired options, noise-cancelling or ambient sound, we’ve got you covered. These are meant to stay tangle-free and fit within your helmet.

1. Best Overall: Wildhorn Alta

⭐️⭐️⭐️RATING: 9.6/10 Stars | ✅ Buy it!

Wildhorn Alta Wireless Bluetooth Headphones

If you’re looking for headphones that can keep up with you on the slopes, the Wildhorn Alta Wireless Bluetooth Headphones might be the perfect fit for you.


Pros

  • The 40mm drivers and premium Bluetooth 5.0 wireless chipset deliver high-definition sound with deep bass at any volume level.
  • The built-in microphone and intuitive buttons make it easy to control your phone and make calls without removing your helmet or gloves.
  • The Alta headphones are universally compatible with most audio-ready helmet brands, including Wildhorn, Smith, Poc, K2, Giro, Bolle, Anon, Burton, and others.

Cons

  • The Altas are slightly thicker than other headphones, which may not be comfortable for some users.
  • Some users have reported minor issues with sound quality.
  • The price point may be higher than other headphones on the market.

These headphones were designed in Utah by skiers and snowboarders who wanted a hassle-free premium audio experience.

The Altas are sweat-resistant and have been tested in extreme cold, 24 degrees Fahrenheit (-4 degrees Celsius). With 10 hours of playtime, you can shred the gnar all day and never run out of juice for your tunes.

The 40mm drivers and premium Bluetooth 5.0 wireless chipset deliver high-definition sound with deep bass at any volume level. The built-in microphone and intuitive buttons make it easy to control your phone and make calls without removing your helmet or gloves.

And the Altas are universally compatible with most audio-ready helmet brands, including Wildhorn, Smith, Poc, K2, Giro, Bolle, Anon, Burton, and others.

However, some users have reported minor issues with sound quality and the price point may be higher than other headphones on the market. The Altas are slightly thicker than other headphones, which may not be comfortable for some users.


2. Best Bang for Your Buck: Unigear Bombing Ski Helmet Speakers

⭐️⭐️⭐️RATING: 7.8/10 Stars | ✅ Buy it!

Unigear Bombing Ski Helmet Speakers

If you’re looking for a reliable, high-quality audio experience while skiing or snowboarding, the Unigear Bombing Ski Helmet Speakers are a solid choice.


Pros

  • The Bluetooth 5.0 technology provides a stable connection and faster transmission speed.
  • The glove-friendly button system allows you to control every feature without removing your device from your helmet.
  • The HDR audio tech and 40mm high-efficiency drivers deliver a premium acoustic experience.

Cons

  • The speakers may feel tight or uncomfortable on some ears.
  • The controls can be wonky if the speakers don’t turn on together.
  • It can be difficult to change songs in a playlist.

The Unigear Bombing Ski Helmet Speakers are easy to install and compatible with a wide range of audio-ready helmets. The wireless and Bluetooth 5.0 technology maintains a stable connection within ten meters and provides a faster transmission speed. The glove-friendly button system allows you to control every feature without removing your device from your helmet, making it easy to change, play or pause tracks, take calls, and use Siri (voice control) through the button.

The proprietary HDR audio tech and 40mm high-efficiency drivers combine to deliver a premium acoustic experience that makes your music sound like the performer is right there beside you.

Meanwhile, the stirring HDR tech automatically optimizes the lows and highs, providing you with flawless music. The speakers are surprisingly loud, helping reduce the sound of the wind. Also, it can play for 10 hours on a full battery, covering you with music all day long.

If you have any inquiries regarding this product, please feel free to contact the Unigear customer service team.

They offer a 365-day 100% satisfaction guarantee. However, the speakers may feel tight or uncomfortable on some ears, and the controls can be wonky if the speakers don’t turn on together. It can also be difficult to change songs in a playlist.

3. Runner-Up: Aleck Nunchucks

⭐️⭐️⭐️RATING: 9.4/10 Stars | ✅ Buy it!

Aleck Nunchucks Audio System

Slip into your helmet with Aleck Nunchucks, and you’re all set for an immersive sound experience while shredding the slopes.


Pros

  • Exceptional battery life for day-long enjoyment
  • Seamless fit with various helmet brands
  • Group communication feature to stay connected on the mountain

Cons

  • Requires a modest cell signal for some functions
  • May create a slight bulge in certain helmets
  • A high-quality audio experience that might come with a premium cost

Strapping on the Nunchucks, you’ll notice right away the snug fit beneath your helmet’s liner. Their design feels nearly invisible, letting you hit the slopes to the soundtrack of your choice without any added bulk. As I carved down the mountain, the sound quality from the titanium drivers was nothing short of impressive; the bass was deep, and the highs sparkled.

When you’re a few trails apart, you’ll appreciate how the unlimited range communication lets you check in with your friends. It’s freeing to chat without fumbling with phones, your gloves getting in the way. And trust me when I say the 18-hour battery life truly lasts, even in the mid-winter chill.

The charging is as swift as your descent — a mere hour for full battery life. While there’s a bit of a learning curve with the Aleck app, I found crafting my distinct sound with the EQ surprisingly intuitive. Just be aware, to maintain that group connection, a cell signal is necessary — not a problem most of the time, but worth noting for those remote backcountry adventures.

The Nunchucks aren’t just for jamming to tunes; they’re also practical. Integrated controls mean you can play, pause, or take calls with your gloves still on. Admittedly, they created a slight bump inside my helmet, but it’s a small trade-off for such a rich audio experience. For the quality you get, they could be considered an indulgence, but they’re an indulgence that will enhance every trip down the mountain.

4. Most Premium: Outdoor Tech – Chips Ultra 2.0

⭐️⭐️⭐️RATING: 9.0/10 Stars | ✅ Buy it!

Outdoor Tech - Chips Ultra 2.0

If you’re looking for a reliable and safe way to listen to music while skiing, snowboarding, or mountain biking, then the Outdoor Tech – Chips Ultra 2.0 is a great choice.


Pros

  • Crystal clear sound quality
  • Easy to use with gloves on
  • Safe and seamless audio solution

Cons

  • Expensive compared to other options
  • Some users reported issues with connectivity
  • Charging case is not included

The Outdoor Tech – Chips Ultra 2.0 offers incredible sound quality with expertly-tuned 40mm drivers. The slim design of the earpieces allows for a safer listening experience, as they sit outside the ear and let you hear exterior sounds around you.

The oversized buttons on each earpiece make it easy to operate the device with your gloves still on, and the independent earpieces mean you can listen to music, answer calls, and activate your voice assistant without ever having to remove your phone from your pocket.

However, some users have reported connectivity issues with the device, and the price point may be a bit high for some. The charging case is not included, which may be an inconvenience for some users.

5. Best Multi-Sport: SHOKZ OpenRun (AfterShokz Aeropex)

⭐️⭐️⭐️RATING: 7.9/10 Stars | ✅ Buy it!

SHOKZ OpenRun (AfterShokz Aeropex)

If you’re looking for a high-quality pair of headphones that won’t compromise your safety while skiing, the SHOKZ OpenRun (AfterShokz Aeropex) is the perfect choice.


Pros

  • The wraparound frame and wireless, open-ear fit design provide comfortable, earbud-free listening.
  • The bone conduction technology delivers quality audio while leaving your eardrums open to surroundings for ultimate safety.
  • The IP67 waterproof rating makes it completely sweat and waterproof for workouts, fitness, and running.

Cons

  • Not suitable for swimming.
  • The price may be a bit high for some people.
  • The headphones have a separate ringtone when the phone rings, which may be a bit annoying.

The SHOKZ OpenRun (AfterShokz Aeropex) is a great choice for anyone who wants to enjoy music or podcasts while skiing without compromising their safety. The wraparound frame and wireless, open-ear fit design make it comfortable to wear for long periods of time, and the bone conduction technology delivers quality audio while leaving your eardrums open to surroundings for ultimate safety.

In addition, the IP67 waterproof rating makes it completely sweat and waterproof for workouts, fitness, and running, so you don’t have to worry about damaging your headphones during your outdoor activities.

However, the headphones are not suitable for swimming, so keep that in mind if you plan on using them for water sports. Also, the price may be a bit high for some people, but considering the quality of the product, it is worth the investment.

One minor annoyance is that the headphones have a separate ringtone when the phone rings, which may be a bit annoying.

6. Best for Speed Demons: JBL Tune Flex

⭐️⭐️⭐️RATING: 8.2/10 Stars | ✅ Buy it!

JBL Tune Flex

If you’re looking for true wireless earbuds that deliver exceptional sound quality and noise cancellation, you should consider the JBL Tune Flex.


Pros

  • The 12mm drivers and stick form factor of the Tune Flex deliver JBL’s Pure Bass Sound, so you can feel every pulsing beat.
  • Active Noise Cancelling technology
  • The Tune Flex are equipped with 4 microphones, so you’ll always be heard with perfect clarity.

Cons

  • The earbuds don’t come with a travel case to put everything in.
  • The shell shape of the earbuds makes it hard to open with one hand.
  • Some users have reported difficulty setting up the earbuds.

The JBL Tune Flex is a great option for those who want high-quality sound and noise cancellation in a compact package. The earbuds are equipped with 4 microphones, so you can make and take calls with perfect clarity.

With Ambient Aware, you can tune into your surroundings at any time so that you feel safer when you’re out in the world. The earbuds are also sweatproof, so you don’t have to worry about bad weather.

The Tune Flex earbuds come with a Smart Ambient feature that lets you hear more of what you want and less of what you don’t.

The earbuds are also equipped with VoiceAware, which lets you control the amount of mic input routed back into your earbuds.

The Tune Flex earbuds have a battery life of up to 32 hours, so you don’t have to worry about missing a beat. If you need a quick boost, the earbuds have a Speed Charge feature that gives you 2 hours of playtime with just 10 minutes of charging.

7. Best Value: Skullcandy Indy Evo

⭐️⭐️⭐️RATING: 8.5/10 Stars | ✅ Buy it!

Skullcandy Indy Evo

If you are looking for a reliable pair of earbuds that can keep up with your active lifestyle, then the Skullcandy Indy Evo True Wireless In-Ear Bluetooth Earbuds are definitely worth considering.


Pros

  • Excellent sound quality with powerful bass and clear treble
  • Long battery life with a total of 30 hours of playtime
  • Easy to control without having to take out your phone

Cons

  • Earbuds may not fit securely in all ear canals
  • Bluetooth connectivity issues may arise
  • Some users have reported occasional glitches or pauses during playback

With the Skullcandy Indy Evo, you can enjoy your favorite tunes while working out or skating with confidence. These earbuds are designed to stay in place with stability ear gels and are IP55 water and dust resistant.

The Indy Evo also features Tile technology, which makes it easy to track down either earbud if you misplace them. The earbuds can be controlled without having to take out your phone, and they even have a built-in microphone for taking calls.

8. Absolute Cheapest: JZAQ Helmet Bluetooth Headset

⭐️⭐️⭐️RATING: 5.1/10 Stars | ✅ Buy it!

JZAQ Helmet Bluetooth Headset

If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable helmet Bluetooth headset, the JZAQ Helmet Bluetooth Headset is a great option.


Pros

  • Effective distance of 20m and can wirelessly connect to two mobiles at the same time
  • Long battery life: 60 hours continuous talking and playing time, 500 hours standby time
  • Waterproof and dustproof with IPX7 Waterproof technology

Cons

  • The sound quality is not as good as high-end brands
  • The size of the headphones may not fit all helmet sizes
  • The backing on the sticky piece is difficult to remove without damaging the pad

This helmet Bluetooth headset is easy to install and provides clear and high-quality stereo music sound. It is compatible with all smartphones and can be used for riding motorcycles, skiing, horseback riding, and more.

The JZAQ Helmet Bluetooth Headset is perfect for those who want an affordable and reliable option.

In addition, the JZAQ Helmet Bluetooth Headset is waterproof and dustproof, so you don’t have to worry about the rain or snow.

The battery life is long, so you won’t have to worry about charging it frequently. However, the sound quality is not as good as high-end brands, and the size of the headphones may not fit all helmet sizes.

9. Motorcycle Double-Duty: THOKWOK Motorcycle Bluetooth Intercom

⭐️⭐️⭐️RATING: 5.6/10 Stars | ✅ Buy it!

THOKWOK Motorcycle Bluetooth Intercom

If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable motorcycle Bluetooth intercom, then the THOKWOK Motorcycle Bluetooth Intercom is worth considering.


Pros

  • The full-duplex intercom allows for clear and reliable communication between riders, supporting up to 3 rider pairings and 2 rider intercoms simultaneously.
  • The noise reduction technology ensures clear voice quality at high speeds, making your driving journey more exciting.
  • The Bluetooth hands-free feature allows you to easily call out or answer calls, reject calls, or hang up. It even supports last number redialing.

Cons

  • The speakers may not be loud enough at high speeds, and wind noise can drown out the music.
  • The FM radio may be louder than Amazon Prime Music or Spotify.
  • The charging port is the same as the headphone port, which may be inconvenient.

The THOKWOK Motorcycle Bluetooth Intercom is suitable for any full-face helmets and most half-face helmets that can cover the ears. The bigger push-button makes it easy to operate even if you’re wearing gloves. It’s also waterproof with all-silicone, so you don’t have to worry about using it in rainy or snowy weather.

10. Honorable Mention: BE Headwear Drop-In

⭐️⭐️⭐️RATING: 6.6/10 Stars | ✅ Buy it!

BE Headwear Bluetooth Headset

If you’re looking for a comfortable and convenient way to listen to music while skiing, the BE Headwear Bluetooth Headset is a great option.


Pros

  • The slim design of the headphones means they won’t press hard against your ears, providing comfort for long periods of use.
  • The 9-hour battery life before recharging is a great feature, as you won’t have to worry about the headphones dying mid-ski trip.
  • The G3 Tech Bluetooth 4.0 with built-in microphone allows for hands-free calling and the step-by-step voice prompts make for a truly hands-free experience.

Cons

  • The ability to stop/start music with the headphones can be difficult, but adding a Lego brick with Gorilla glue can solve this issue.
  • The ultra-loud speakers with 30 mm speaker drivers can be too loud for some users.
  • The BE Headwear Bluetooth Headset may not fit all helmet types.

In my experience, the BE Headwear Bluetooth Headset is a great option for those who want to listen to music on the slopes. The slim design of the headphones provides comfort for long periods of use, and the 9-hour battery life is a great feature. The G3 Tech Bluetooth 4.0 with built-in microphone allows for hands-free calling, and the step-by-step voice prompts make for a truly hands-free experience.

One issue with the headphones is the ability to stop/start music. However, adding a Lego brick with Gorilla glue can solve this issue. The ultra-loud speakers with 30 mm speaker drivers can be too loud for some users, but this can be adjusted by lowering the volume. The BE Headwear Bluetooth Headset may not fit all helmet types, so it’s important to check compatibility before purchasing.



best ski helmet headphones

When you’re looking into buying the best ski helmet headphones, there are a few things to think about to ensure you pick the right set.

Fit

The first thing to consider is the fit of the headphones. You want to make sure they fit comfortably and securely in your helmet. Look for headphones that are designed to fit specifically with ski helmets and have adjustable ear pads to fit different head sizes.

Sound Quality

Sound quality is also an important factor to consider. Look for headphones that have good sound quality and are designed to block out wind and other external noise. This will allow you to enjoy your music while skiing without being distracted by outside noise.

Battery Life

Battery life is another important factor to consider. Look for headphones that have a long battery life so you can listen to music for an extended period of time without needing to recharge.

You can extend the battery life by keeping them inside a pocket of warm insulated down jacket midlayer. You may also want to consider headphones with a quick charge feature, so you can quickly charge them up if you forget to do so before hitting the slopes.

Controls

Controls are another important factor to consider. Look for headphones that have easy-to-use controls that can be operated with gloves on. This will allow you to easily adjust the volume or skip tracks without having to remove your gloves.

Compatibility

Finally, you want to make sure the headphones you choose are compatible with your device. Look for headphones that are compatible with your phone or music player and have a good Bluetooth connection.

Final Verdict: Best Performance

Best Overall
Wildhorn Alta Wireless
9.6
  • Using 40mm Drivers and a premium Bluetooth 5.0 wireless chipset
  • UNIVERSALLY COMPATIBLE
  • Designed in Utah by skiers and snowboarders that wanted a hassle-free premium audio experience. 
  • Alta is sweat resistant and has been tested in extreme cold, 24 degrees Fahrenheit (-4 degrees Celsius).
  • With 10 hours of playtime, you can shred the gnar all day and never run out of juice for your tunes

FAQs on Skiing Headphones

What are the best ski helmets with built-in headphones?

The best ski helmets with built-in headphones are those that are comfortable, durable, and provide high-quality sound. Look for helmets that have a good fit, good sound quality, and are compatible with your music device. The Unigear bombing set is great HDR audio.

Are there any ski helmets with Bluetooth headphones?

Yes, there are several ski helmets with Bluetooth headphones. These helmets allow you to connect your music device wirelessly to the helmet and enjoy music without any cords. The Wildhorn drop in headphones and Aleck nunchucks have an excellent bluetooth connection.

Do ski helmet headphones interfere with communication devices?

Some ski helmet headphones can interfere with communication devices such as walkie-talkies or two-way radios. However, many newer models have been designed to reduce interference and allow for clear communication.

Are there any ski helmets with walkie-talkie headphones?

Yes, there are ski helmets with walkie-talkie headphones that allow for clear communication with other skiers or snowboarders. These helmets are a great option for those who like to ski or snowboard with a group.

Are built-in ski helmet headphones worth the investment?

Built-in ski helmet headphones can be a great investment for those who enjoy listening to music while skiing or snowboarding. They provide a convenient and safe way to enjoy music without having to wear earbuds or headphones that can fall out or get lost.

Can you safely ski with headphones in your helmet?

Yes, you can safely ski with headphones in your helmet as long as you use them responsibly. It’s important to keep the volume at a safe level so that you can still hear other skiers or snowboarders around you. It’s also important to be aware of your surroundings and to stay alert while skiing or snowboarding.

Hut to Hut Hiking in the Dolomites Free Course

Curious about hut-to-hut hiking in the Dolomites, but not sure where to start or what to expect? Sign up for our newsletter that simplifies and educates so you can focus on the views and vino. Get curious, get ready, and let’s get started! Sign up here👇🏼

More Resources

Discover gear that elevates your outdoor adventures. As a physical therapist, I’ve curated product comparisons to enhance safety and enjoyment, perfect for beginners or those with weary knees.

Physical Therapist Curated Gear Guides for Hikers & Skiers

If you’re looking for a relatable and honest take on outdoor gear, you’re in the right place.

Why Trust? Our Review Process

  • We own and field test every product in real-life outdoor situations.
  • No sponsored reviews or payment for reviews.
  • We constantly update our guides when new products launch.
  • Hiked and skied on 3 continents x 30 years.

We know finding trustworthy advice can be tough. As a physical therapist, avid hut-to-hut hiker, skier, and mother, I’m always on the lookout for gear that enhances comfort and enjoyment in the great outdoors, all while grounded in scientific principles. That’s the inspiration behind Crave the Planet.

I’ll be real with you, I’m not an expert in every outdoor activity. But, who is? I’m just a regular person who loves exploring the planet and our growing team lives for the Outdoors.

We value continuous learning and welcome your constructive feedback. If you spot a missed product or an error, please let us know.

If you’re a keen skier, you’ll appreciate what a difference a good playlist can make to your motivation, performance, and entire experience on the slopes. I hope this comprehensive list of the best ski helmet headphones will bring you much fun and heightened adrenalin when you’re skiing!

Author profile: Morgan Fielder is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and passionate hiker who believes in exploring the world on foot with good food. Follow her journey as she shares science-based hiking tips and advocates for sustainable tourism.