A Search for the Perfect Workout Partner-BackBeat FIT Review
Disclaimer: I received the Plantronics BackBeat FIT to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!
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One of the most frustrating things I've dealt with as a runner is finding the right wireless headphones! Either they don't fit, they start malfunctioning quickly after purchase, or they're just too expensive. I had a chance to try out the BackBeat FIT from Plantronics. So I put them through a rigorous test to save YOU some of the hassle!
First off, Plantronics boasts their BackBeat FIT as the "perfect workout partner". With a "sweat-proof" coating, comfortable fit, 8-hr battery life, and useful apps. Check out this video for the BackBeat FIT in action.
I'll admit, part of my struggle has come from having an Android phone. A lot of wireless/bluetooth headphones just sync better and work more efficiently with iPhones. So that was definitely my first concern with the Plantronics BackBeat FIT.
THE SYNC
Syncing to my Android phone was super simple. Actually, easier than some of the past bluetooth headphones I've used before. I've also had headphones in the past that "lose" the connection and I had to go in and re-connect frequently. So far, the first sync is all I've had to do with the BackBeat FIT.
THE FIT
These headphones definitely fit better than most I've used! The contoured ear buds aren't interchangeable, but you can "click" them into different angles to a certain degree. So that really makes a difference. And of course having the loops to go around your ear and secure everything in place is a great addition. I've ran in them a few times so far, and there's never any tug and the buds never fell out.
Now, I think I have an abnormally small left ear-hole... canal opening??.. whatever you call it, my left ear always has trouble with even the best-fitting headphones. The bud never fell out of my ear with the BackBeat FIT, but it wasn't "perfectly" snug like in my right ear. Don't get me wrong, that's just me being picky and up-front. I think adding in some additonal, changeable buds would really help add some customization to the fit.
SWEAT-PROOF
Sweat has to be the kryptonite for any headphones I've ever owned. And living in the hot, sweaty desert means I've been through my fair share of them. So far, I've ran a number of times in my BackBeat FIT and have yet to encounter an issue after a sweaty run. Plantronics boasts their "P2i nano-coating" technology as the key element in protecting their product from rain, sweat, spills and more. You can find out more about the P2i nano-coating HERE.
Something to note: the BackBeat FIT are NOT noise-cancelling headphones. Meaning they will NOT block out all outside sound. I think a lot of people confuse "good sound" with "ability to hear surroundings". And let's face it, wearing noise-cancelling headphones while running, no matter WHERE you are, is unsafe. That being said, I thought the sound of these headphones were incredible.
THE BUTTONS
These headphones are much easier to use than I've encountered. One big issue I've ran into with other headphones, are those with "toggle switches" tend to stop working after a while! On the BackBeat FIT there are no toggle switches, they're buttons on the ear buds themselves. Pretty cool feature.
Navigating my way around "how many taps" vs "which button" to use when I needed it only took one run to get used to it. To better understand what I mean, you can take a look at this video on how to use the BackBeat FIT's button features.
I charged the battery to full when I first pulled my headphones out of the box. For every run this week when I turned them on I heard the "full battery" audio cue. Pretty remarkable! Love not having to constantly remember to charge my headphones before heading out the door.
The charging-port cover on the right ear bud is a little hard to open, especially for those like me with bitten-off fingernails. I worry I might break it trying to pry it open, but I just need to be careful. Plus, a hard-to-open port cover just means it's air tight.
ADDITIONAL FEATURES
Some "bonus" features that come with the BackBeat FIT include a storage pouch that is reversible and doubles as an armband. Also, both the headphones and armband have a reflective finish for night-run safety. There are also a few useful smartphone apps to both update the "firmware" as well as find your headphones if you ever misplace them.
THE TAKEAWAY
All in all, I believe I really HAVE found the perfect workout partner! The price is very reasonable as well. You can purchase the Plantronics BackBeat FIT $129.99. That's less than I've seen for others out there with only mediocre reviews.
I highly recommend these headphones for running. But you don't have to take my word for it. Check out some fellow BibRave PRO reviews of the Plantronics BackBeat FIT below!
Angie Runs: Plantronics Review
Samantha's Plantronics Review
John's Plantronics Review
Did I leave something out you'd like to know about the Plantronics BackBeat FIT? Comment below and I'll be sure to answer any questions you have!
Website: http://www.plantronics.com/us/
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I think I have small ear holes (canals..whatever!) too! I have a heck of a time finding ones that actually stay in my ears as well. I like that these have the hooks around your ear to (hopefully) keep them more stable. Thanks for the review, Jeremy!
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