I use Shure E4Cs. They’re nice, but there are definitely better options currently available. I believe the gold standard right now are the Ultimate Ear buds that Josh mentioned a few days ago. Etymotics makes some nice stuff. I have a pair of custom -15dB earplugs from them (I used to work at a big music venue and got sick of my ears always ringing). They make nice stuff and if you’re just getting them for exercise, they might not be a bad option.

One thing to consider though, if you’re going to be working out with them, you might want to go for a baser model like the E4Cs–they can be had pretty cheap these days. Once you get a pair, call around to audiologists’ offices and find one who will make a mold of your ears for custom fit buds. The difference is immense and entirely worth it.

Another thing, I really wouldn’t suggest using these things exercising outside of the gym. So like biking, running, skiing, whatever. It’s pretty difficult to hear anything else.

Finally, don’t worry about the buds going deeply into your ears. It’s completely safe. It will feel awkward at first, but you get used to it pretty quick. The noise canceling ones are actually healthier for your ears, because you can play at significantly lower volumes while accomplishing drastically higher audio fidelity.

Anyway, I hope that all helps. Let me know how it turns out.

Hey Blake, could you point me in the direction of your noise canceling ear buds?

Are they Etymotics or a less intrusive design?

I’m looking for a pair to use at my gym, where they play loud techno dance music which drowns out the podcasts I’m trying to listen to.

I’m tempted by the Etymotics but am worried by the possible health implications of having a foreign body go so deeply into the ear canal, especially when sweating, etc.