Design and features: Although this portable ear-insert model lacks active noise reduction, the ear plug-like design helps to reduce both outside noise and sound leaking out into your environment. The earphones have very high sensitivity so they can provide satisfying volume levels when used with lower powered portable audio devices. The SportFlex 3 has an integrated microphone and player function controls that are compatible with iPads, some iPods, and some iPhones and some other cellphones. The call connect/disconnect button can be used with some iPhones and some other cellphones. These earphones use a cable with a 4-contact mini-plug works with most mobile devices but may not be compatible with some other audio equipment. The manufacturer claims that this model is water resistant, and it comes with carrying bag.
Sound quality: We found the SportFlex 3 delivers sound quality that falls in the very good range - it reproduces music and voice very well although it does have some noticeable sonic quirks. The overall sound can best be summarized as neutral (neither full nor lean) and fairly clean. At its best the bass (as in bass drums, bass guitars, stand-up bass, etc.) has good impact and goes deep, but lacks a bit of detail; it can sound a bit boomy or bass shy depending on how they are fitted in the ear. The midrange (voices, guitars, horns, etc.) is clear, but slightly thin and very slightly soft. The treble (cymbals, the upper range of violins, etc.) is extended, but is a bit smeared--sounds that should have a delicate shimmer sound a bit blurred. The sound has a good sense of liveliness and is somewhat open--sound-wise it almost seems like you don't have anything plugging your ears.
Comfort: We found that these earphones produce sense of pressure in the ear opening that might be uncomfortable for some and they require careful placement for some users to get the best sound quality. The ear hooks makes fitting them into place a bit fussy, but once fitted they stay in place with no problems, and when properly adjusted the ear hooks keep the earphones very stable even with vigorous head movement.
