If you want a premium, noise-canceling audio solution for your gym sessions and daily commuting that blocks out the chaos of the world, choose Avantree Relay; if you need durable, waterproof bone-conduction headphones specifically designed for underwater lap swimming and open-ear safety, choose Fanisic Lap Swimming Headphones/Earbuds. These two products serve fundamentally different masters: one is an all-in-one wireless adapter system focused on high-fidelity isolation, while the other is a specialized aquatic tool built to withstand submersion and keep your ears open to your surroundings.
• Avantree Relay: Delivers active noise cancellation and aptX Adaptive audio quality for crystal-clear sound in noisy environments, but lacks waterproofing and is not designed for water sports.
• Fanisic Lap Swimming Headphones/Earbuds: Offers true IP68 waterproofing and bone conduction technology for safe, dry-free swimming, though it sacrifices deep bass and isolation from the outside world.
• Who should buy which: Choose Avantree Relay for those prioritizing audio fidelity and silence in the gym or on planes; pick Fanisic for athletes who swim laps, run in the rain, or need situational awareness while moving.
The Avantree Relay is engineered for people who demand high-quality audio performance and wish to eliminate environmental distractions. Its core strength lies in its ability to transform any device with an AUX output into a Bluetooth transmitter, making it incredibly versatile for gym equipment, televisions, or even airplane entertainment systems. The inclusion of Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) is a game-changer for commuters and gym-goers alike, capable of blocking up to 24dB of environmental noise. This feature allows you to focus entirely on your workout playlist or podcast without the distraction of clanking weights or engine hums.
For the serious listener, the support for aptX-Adaptive codec is a critical selling point. This technology ensures low-latency, high-quality audio transmission when paired with compatible devices, preserving the richness of your music. Combined with Bluetooth 5.3, the connection remains stable and reliable, reducing the frustration of dropouts during intense cardio sessions. The unit also features a transparency mode, known as Surroundings Awareness, which lets you hear ambient sounds instantly when needed, such as when a trainer approaches or you need to navigate a crowded room.
We compare products from their published specs and features; the verdicts below are our independent editorial opinions.
Updated: 2026-10-27 · 6 min read · Independent comparison
However, this product is not for everyone. If your primary activity involves getting wet, whether from sweat or water, the Avantree Relay is not the right choice. The design focuses on in-ear comfort with rounded tips, but it does not carry an IP rating for water resistance. Additionally, while the battery display in the case helps you monitor charging status, it is not a dedicated long-duration battery pack for all-day outdoor use without access to power. It is best suited for indoor gym environments, home workouts, or travel where audio clarity and noise suppression are your top priorities.
The Fanisic Lap Swimming Headphones/Earbuds are built for a very specific, demanding niche: athletes who swim. Unlike standard earbuds, these utilize bone conduction technology, which transmits sound through the cheekbones rather than vibrating the eardrum. This open-ear design is crucial for safety, allowing swimmers to remain aware of their surroundings, hear lane markers, or detect lifeguards while listening to music. The build quality is robust, featuring an IP68 waterproof rating that can withstand being submerged in water deeper than one meter for up to 30 minutes. This makes them ideal for lap swimming, surfing, or even heavy rainstorms where traditional electronics would fail.
A standout feature for many users is the dual-mode capability. You can switch between Bluetooth 6.0 for connectivity with your phone or connect directly via the built-in 32GB MP3 storage. This internal memory allows you to store up to 8,000 songs or audiobooks, meaning you can leave your phone on the pool deck and still enjoy a full playlist. The transition between modes is simple, requiring just a double-click of the power button. The ergonomic, lightweight silicone design ensures a secure fit that stays in place during vigorous strokes, and the magnetic fast-charging cable adds convenience, taking only two hours to fully charge the unit for eight hours of continuous playback.
That said, there are trade-offs to consider. Because these headphones rely on bone conduction, they do not offer the deep bass or isolation of traditional in-ear models. Sound leaks slightly more, so privacy is minimal, which might be a concern in quiet public spaces. Furthermore, the Bluetooth connection cannot function underwater; you must switch to MP3 mode before diving. While the range reaches up to 10 meters, which is excellent for poolside use, the lack of active noise cancellation means you will hear the splashing water and the pool environment clearly. This product is perfect for the swimmer who needs durability and safety, but less ideal for someone seeking a pure, immersive audio experience.
• Best for underwater swimming → Fanisic Lap Swimming Headphones/Earbuds (IP68 rated, bone conduction).
• Best for noise isolation → Avantree Relay (Hybrid ANC blocks up to 24dB of noise).
• Best for gym equipment compatibility → Avantree Relay (Works with any AUX output device).
• Best for offline listening → Fanisic Lap Swimming Headphones/Earbuds (Built-in 32GB storage for 8,000 songs).
• Best for open-ear safety → Fanisic Lap Swimming Headphones/Earbuds (Keeps ears unblocked for situational awareness).
• Best for high-fidelity audio → Avantree Relay (aptX-Adaptive codec for low latency and superior sound).
• Best for battery longevity → Fanisic Lap Swimming Headphones/Earbuds (8 hours of playtime on a single charge).
• Best for air travel → Avantree Relay (Dual 3.5mm adapters included for universal plane compatibility).
In my opinion, the decision comes down to your primary activity. If I am hitting the gym for a heavy lifting session or trying to get some work done on a noisy flight, I would absolutely choose the Avantree Relay. The combination of hybrid active noise cancellation and aptX-Adaptive support creates a focused, immersive environment that significantly enhances the listening experience for long battery life kids headphones for gym scenarios or adult commuters alike. However, if my routine includes swimming laps or running in heavy rain, the Fanisic Lap Swimming Headphones/Earbuds are the only logical choice due to their IP68 rating and bone conduction safety features. Ultimately, for general gym use where water exposure is minimal, the Avantree Relay offers the superior audio performance and versatility I need to stay motivated.
The Fanisic model is rated IP68, making it fully waterproof for rain and sweat, whereas the Avantree Relay is not designed for water exposure and should be kept dry.
Yes, the Fanisic headphones have 32GB of internal storage to hold thousands of songs in MP3 mode, while the Avantree Relay requires a source device to transmit audio via Bluetooth or AUX.
The Avantree Relay uses Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation to block significant environmental noise, while the Fanisic model uses an open-ear design that keeps your ears clear to surrounding sounds.
The Fanisic headphones provide up to 8 hours of continuous playback, while the Avantree Relay relies on its case battery display to indicate remaining power for extended listening sessions.
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