10 Best Headphones for Lawn Mowing [2024 Review]

If you’re like me, you love working in your yard, but you also know that it’s important to protect your ears.

At the same time, you also want to pass the time listening to some music or even a podcast while you work.

That’s why I’ve put together this list of the 10 best headphones for lawn mowing. With these headphones, you can enjoy your favorite tunes while taking care of your yard.

Headphones to Protect Your Hearing 

Your ears are sensitive tools that you want in the best working order. But frequent exposure to loud noises – which produce high decibels – can cause irreparable harm to the tiny hairs inside the ear canal. 

Once your ear drums experience damage, you lose your hearing abilities. Over time, you can end up unable to hear without the help of listening devices.

You can experience hearing damage from anything that makes a lot of noise. Even everyday activities you wouldn’t expect can harm your hearing, like mowing your yard.

According to OSHA (the Occupational Safety and Health Agency), exposure to noise levels above 85 decibels (dB) can cause permanent damage to the inner ear.

The average lawn mower can generate a noise level of 85 dB or higher. Of course, the older your mower is, the higher decibels it will produce. 

Failure to protect your ears, even for short exposure, can lead to long-term hearing damage. You won’t get the same protection from regular headphones, which won’t drown out a lot of background noise. 

The great thing about headphones for lawn mowing is that you can block ambient noise with the ear pads while still having great sound waves and audio quality without suffering high volumes.

Our top picks for the ten best headphones for lawn mowing can protect your ears, and some can entertain you with music for a great time while working. We’ll look at the different models selling features, weak points, and additional features.

Best Lawn Mowing Headphones: Reviews and Buyers Guide

The best headphones for lawn mowing will not only protect your ears from the mower’s loud noises, but also allow you to enjoy music or accept phone calls. There are two types of headphones that you can choose when operating lawnmowers – over-ear or on-ear. 

Headphones that cover your ears give you the best protection and coverage. And wireless options are best for ensuring you don’t get tangled up in wires. But the biggest feature is a headphone unit’s NRR – Noise reduction rating.

 Let’s take a look at the best headphones for lawn care on the market today.

1. Our Top Pick
3M WorkTunes Connect Hearing Protection

The 3M WorkTunes Connect Hearing Protector is a lightweight, low-profile headphone set compatible with smartphones and mobile devices via Bluetooth wireless technology. 

They have soft cushioned padding on the low-profile over-ear muffs and an adjustable flexible soft leather headband with multiple open cutouts that provide superior airflow control technology that is compatible with wearing hats.

A single-button interface makes it easy to toggle the headphones’ power options and connect the hearing protector to your device.

What We Liked

• Integrated microphone
• Bluetooth to stream from smart and mobile phone
• Low-profile ear cups
• Single-button interface
• Wireless
• 24 NRR

What We Didn’t

• No built-in radio

2. Best Noise Cancelling
MuffPro 32db Headphones for Mowing

Eliminate all sound pollution from your yardwork with the best noise-cancelling headphones. They can protect your ears from up to 32dB of sound from double-thickened foam ear padding.

The headphones have a solid black ABS shell and a soft leather-wrapped headband. You can connect this device to your wireless devices in Bluetooth 5.0 mode. Or you can establish a wired link in AUX mode to listen to music, podcasts, or other audio.

But these headphones also feature a high reception sensitivity antenna that lets you manually or auto scan radio stations, saving up to 50. In addition, sound comes through 40mm boosted drivers for the best option for passive noise cancellation.

What We Liked

• Built-in AM/FM headphones
• 32dB noise reduction rating
• Bluetooth

What We Didn’t

• Requires three AAA batteries 
• Batteries not included

3. Best Bluetooth
Walker’s Razor Quad Electronic Ear Muffs

You can use these collapsible earmuffs for your yard work without missing out on what’s happening around you. In addition, these headphones can amplify noise with the four built-in microphones, which could be a problem while running your lawn mower.

But you can turn the amplification off and only leave the sound up for your Bluetooth. Then, the headphones will block out up to 23dB of noise pollution. However, you can still hear your music or audio from your connected device by keeping the Bluetooth control turned up.

The ultra-low-profile ear muff shape and thick headband add excellent touches to the comfortable headphones’ sound-dampening composite housing. At the same time, the metal frame allows for easy storage once you fold the headphones up.

What We Liked

• Low-profile ear pads
• Bluetooth capable
• Foldable, compact design
• Four Omnidirectional microphones for 360-degree sound

What We Didn’t

• Lower but still respectable 23 dB protection
• Sound amplification may make sounds too loud for some

4. Longest Battery Life
Zohan EM037 Hearing Protection with Bluetooth

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If battery life is one of your most important factors, try these stylish black and yellow Zohan em042 or em037 headphones. It makes a great option for distance since the Bluetooth capabilities reach up to 80 feet in range. 

And the impressive 1500mAh battery can last up to 40 hours of use after a four-hour full charge when you run it in Bluetooth mode. Or when you connect the phone via a 3.55 audio cable and a phone charger, you can have unlimited play.

At only 0.66 pounds, these lightweight headphones have an extra-thick padded headband and earmuffs, which supports prolonged wearing.

What We Liked

• Extensive battery length
• Fast charge
• Flashing light/voice assist connection
• Extensive Bluetooth range
• 25dB NRR

What We Didn’t

• Limited to Bluetooth operation

5. Best Radio Headphones
ProHear 033 Upgraded Hearing Protection Headphones with FM/AM Radio

Listening to local radio stations at any given time can be good for many people. But you may also want to be able to use those same headphones to take phone calls or listen to audio from a wireless device.

These are the best radio headphones that have plush leather padding on the headband and ear cushions. An external antenna gives you better connections and a wide range distance, while the deep bass and high-fidelity speakers ensure quality sound.

The large digit display makes it easy to read the panel, while four buttons control the operation using the headphone set. 

What We Liked

• Up to 48 hours of playtime
• Integrated microphone 
• Built-in AM/FM radio or Bluetooth connection
• LCD display
• 25dB NRR

What We Didn’t

• Bulky size may have difficulty staying in place

6. Best Earbuds
Mipeace In-Ear Earplug Earbuds 

If over-ear headphones aren’t your style, we have good news. You may prefer the more slender performance of neckband wireless inner earbuds. This set offers 16 hours of playtime with only three hours of charge. On standby, these headphones can last 270 hours.

The ergonomic neckband wraps around your neck, while the oval ear tips have a tapered ribbed design that effectively reduces ambient noise. You can keep it stored in the included portable compact case when not in use.

The lightweight design of less than one ounce and the flexibility of the IPX5 waterproof silicone creates a secure, comfortable fit for listening to music, blocking sound, or talking on the phone with the built-in microphone and Bluetooth 5 connectivity. 

What We Liked

• Lightweight design 
• Waterproof
• Long-lasting battery
• In-ear design
• Fantastic 29 dB noise reduction rating (NRR)

What We Didn’t

• The ribbed design may become uncomfortable over long wear

7. Most Comfortable
3M WorkTunes Connect + Gel Cushion

Another 3M headphone product we rate as the most comfortable headphones for mowing your lawn is the WorkTunes (#1 on our list) with upgraded gel cushion ear pieces.

Bluetooth technology allows for wireless streaming of music, calls, and audio from your mobile and wireless devices. The wireless headphones frame gives a minimalistic, low-profile look. Cutouts make the band easier to adjust and wear with hats. 

What We Liked

• Designed to wear with hats
• Gel ear pads are comfortable for long-term wear
• Integrated microphone and built-in battery
• Low profile shape and feel
• 23 dB NRR

What We Didn’t

• Heavier and bulkier when moving

8. Best Multi-Use
Howard Leight Impact Sport Earmuff

These Howard Leight sports earmuffs have slender earpads and a padded headband that gives the compact shape a slim design. They also have recessed controls that allow for easy folding and compact storage.

They can dampen noise up to 22 NRR and amplify ambiance sounds to 82 dB due to directional microphones built into the muffs. 

And you can use these foldable headphones with a 3.5 mm connection cord or AUX input cord to connect to audio devices. 

What We Like

• A large variety of color choices (13)
• Foldable and compact
• Connects to an external audio device via AUX or 3.5mm
• Automatically turns off sound amplification for loud noises

What We Didn’t

• Requires AAA batteries
• Not Bluetooth compatible

9. Most Durable
DEWALT Bluetooth Hearing Protection

You can use Dewalt’s Hi-Fi Bluetooth headphones with NRR 25 dB speakers for work, play, audio, or phone. A built-in microphone and Bluetooth connectivity allow you to operate the headphones via buttons on the outside of the yellow ABS plastic casing.

An adjustable padded headband, wired frame, and cushy ear pads make your headphones suitable for noise isolation of loud lawnmower noises.

But you can also connect to audio devices like an mp3 player to listen to music, play audio, or mobile devices to conduct phone calls.

What We Liked 

• 84 dB ambient noise amplification 
• Built-in controls on the side of the headphone
• Integrated microphone
• 25 dB noise reduction rating

What We Didn’t

• Unadjustable

10. Best Value
BJ King EP003 Headphone Ear Protection

These wire-framed headphones have a thick adjustable headband and padded ears to make them comfy. But the large size of the padded earpieces might become uncomfortable for some users.

With the built-in antenna, you can get ear protection while enjoying your favorite radio stations on AM or FM radio earmuffs. Or connect your headphones to your wireless device via Bluetooth.

And keep track of your current settings with the large 1.8″ LCD screen. And below it is buttons that allow you to control the functions without pulling out your phone. 

What We Liked

• 30 dB noise reduction rating
• Large LCD screen
• AM/FM radio or audio via Bluetooth connection
• Built-in button controls

What We Didn’t

• Requires external batteries
• Large earmuff size may not be compatible with all users

Types of Lawn Mowing Headphones to Choose From

When considering different headphones to wear while lawn mowing, first decide which type of headphones you want to wear – over-ear or on-ear.

Over-ear headphones will cover your whole ear due to being a larger size. In addition, they have thick padding that covers the hard plastic housing around the speaker. 

These devices sit over your ear and provide better noise reduction and sound quality. But the bulky size can cause the headphones to fall off your ears during movement.

On-ear headphones have a smaller, more compact size. And they create a more secure fit, even when you’re moving. 

However, they’re also known for being less comfortable to wear for a long time. And they also have less superior sound quality that won’t block out the dangers of the mower’s high dB. 

How to Choose the Best Headphones for Mowing 

When trying to find the best headphones for mowing, there are some key considerations. The main purpose of using headphones for mowing is to protect your ears from hearing loss.

Key Considerations

Weigh these factors when comparing different models of lawn mowing headphones. Each of these components is a crucial factor that can affect the quality and performance of your device.

NRR – Noise Reduction Rating 

All headphones have an NRR, which refers to a noise reduction rating. A higher NRR means that the device provides better noise protection. 

For lawn mower headphones, look for options with a minimum of 33dB. Earmuff headphones not only offer high dB to eliminate the harmful noise from the mower. 

The active noise cancellation of the muffs will not only reduce ambient noise. But it also makes it easier to listen to music while cutting grass and doing yard work. 

However, use caution when listening to music while cutting grass if you’re not using noise-cancelling headphones. It can also be dangerous for your hearing.   

Comfort

You also want to ensure the headphone you choose are comfortable, especially if you’ll be wearing them for long periods. 

Features like padded, soft cups or gel-infused pads offer the best comfort for pressing against your ears. Moisture-wicking materials make the best fabric choices, as you won’t have to worry about sweating. 

Having an adjustable headband can also be useful. Adjusting the fit can make your headphones versatile if you’re trying to wear other safety gear like glasses or a hat.

Durability

You’ll also want to choose headphones made from durable materials. Frequent exposure to the outdoors can cause cheaper materials to degrade faster. 

The best headphones for lawn mowing will be resistant to exposure to water (including sweat), sunlight, high temperatures, and other environmental conditions.

Leather and faux leather, ABS-plastic shell, and metal framing are the most common materials of headphones that can withstand heavy use.

You’ll also want to consider the headphone’s battery life and sound quality during phone calls. Finally, consider the run time on a single charge and whether there is a rechargeable battery. 

Or if the earplugs require disposables like AA batteries or AAA batteries. Also, consider the quality of the microphone and the amount of noise it will pick up.

Price

Your budget is one of the most crucial components when picking headphones to wear while cutting grass with a loud lawn mower. 

As astonishing as it may sound, the price range for headphones can range from around $20 (for a budget-friendly pair) up to hundreds of dollars. 

If you’re only wearing your headphones while doing yard work with loud power tools like lawn mowing, you probably won’t find any benefit in spending a large sum of money on a pair of headphones.

But you might also be planning to use your headphones for noise reduction against loud sounds. You can also wear your headphones when working with power tools, leaf blowers, weed eaters, and compressors. 

However, if you’ll be using your headphone set for many different things and you have more than one purpose – for audio, phone calls, and hearing protection – it may be worth spending a bit more for a quality pair that will last.

Connectivity

You have various options when picking the perfect headphones for you to wear while doing lawn care and working with loud power tools.

If your only priority is protecting your hearing with the highest NRR, then you might not need additional features.

But if you want to use your headphones for entertainment as much as protection, you might want a set that offers Bluetooth wireless connectivity. Some allow you to connect to a device via a 3.5mm cord or aux cable. 

To use your headphones to accept phone calls and not just to listen to audio, you’ll also need to find a device with an integrated microphone.

Other headphones have a built-in external antenna that allows you to access digital AM and FM radio stations. These devices often have multiple buttons to control the digital radio.

And finally, there are headphone designs that include both abilities. So, for example, you can use headphones to listen to radio stations. But you also can link to a wireless device such as a phone or tablet for audio and to have phone calls (which requires a built-in microphone). 

Final Verdict 

You’ll want to use protective headphones to protect your hearing when you’re outside doing yard work with loud power tools like a lawn mower. Even short exposure to high decibel levels can cause irreversible harm to your ears. 

We’ve provided ten of the best headphones for lawn mowing. Our top pick considering all the factors listed are the 3M WorkTunes Connect Hearing Protection headphones.

Factors you may want in outdoor headphones include comfortable earpads, noise reduction, and an adjustable headband. If you want your headphones to play music or connect to a phone, you’ll also want a headphone set that is Bluetooth capable or able to establish a link via an auxiliary cord.