H20 Audio Ript Ultra review: exercise-focused over-ears that lock on — but sound and features lag the price

Table of Contents

1. Key Highlights
2. Introduction
3. Design engineered for exercise
4. Sweatproofing, hygiene and durability
5. Fit, comfort and real-world use during workouts
6. Battery life, connectivity and controls
7. Noise control: passive isolation versus active cancellation
8. Sound quality: drivers, signature and limitations
9. Value: price, alternatives and who should pay the premium
10. Testing methodology and real-world usage
11. Practical tips for owners and prospective buyers
12. Who should buy the Ript Ultra — and who should look elsewhere
13. Verdict
14. FAQ

Key Highlights

• Engineered for workouts: sealed, removable silicone ear pads, a firm clamping force and a 3.5mm wired option make the Ript Ultra exceptional for sweatproof durability and secure fit.
• Compromises where it counts: audio is warm but muddy, ANC only marginally effective, and there’s no companion app or EQ — a limited feature set for an initially premium price.
• Strong battery life and solid passive noise isolation add value for gym and running use, but better-sounding or better-featured alternatives exist at similar or lower prices.

Introduction

Headphones designed specifically for exercise remain rare among over-ear designs. H20 Audio set out to change that with the Ript Ultra: a pair of clamping, sweatproof over-ears that promise trouble-free workouts, removable silicone pads for cleaning, and long battery life. The core achievement here is straightforward and tangible — they solve persistent practical problems that make most everyday over-ears poor workout companions. That engineering comes at a cost. List price launched in the premium band, and the sonic and feature-level trade-offs leave questions about whether the Ript Ultra belong only in the gym bag or should replace a daily-use pair.

This review examines how the Ript Ultra perform across design, durability, fit, battery life, noise control and sound quality. It also compares them to like-minded competitors and offers practical guidance for buyers who prioritize sweat resistance and stability over studio-grade audio or rich software support.

Design engineered for exercise

H20’s design priorities are clear the moment you handle the Ript Ultra. The ear cups use thick silicone pads that completely enclose the driver housings, preventing perspiration from reaching internal electronics. That enclosure is removable for cleaning — a rare and practical feature on over-ear headphones intended for regular sweaty use.

The overall construction leans toward ruggedness rather than luxury. The main shell uses a hardy plastic that creaks slightly in the hand but feels chosen for durability over premium finish. At 304g these headphones sit a little heavier than many modern over-ears, but not to an uncomfortable extreme. They fold down and ship with a protective carry case for travel. Controls are deliberately physical and simple: power and volume buttons on the right cup, ANC and USB-C on the left. A surprising inclusion is a 3.5mm jack on the right cup, letting you plug in for wired listening when you want lower latency or slightly better fidelity.

Colorways include standard black and gray models and a couple of special editions, such as a pink Betty x RIPT and an orange Zwift-collab model. The special editions appear cosmetic only; they don’t add features beyond the styling.

Why this design works for exercise

• The silicone pads’ sealed drivers protect against sweat damage and allow a hygiene routine other leather or cloth pads don’t.
• Strong clamping force keeps the cans stable during sprints, interval sessions and obstacle-course-type movements.
• Physical buttons offer predictable control when fingers are damp or gloved.

Trade-offs

• Silicone pads trap heat, making ears warm during extended workouts, particularly in hot weather.
• The plastic finish and slightly heavy feel reduce the premium tactile impression, which some buyers may equate with lower build quality despite the likely durability benefits.

Sweatproofing, hygiene and durability

H20 positions the Ript Ultra around sweatproofing and cleanability, and the execution matches that claim. The ear cushions are purpose-built silicone shells that fully enclose the drivers. They are removable and washable. That matters for users who train daily and risk salt and moisture seeping into conventional foam or leather pads.

There is no official IP rating provided by H20 for the Ript Ultra, however. The lack of an IP certificate means the headphones should not be assumed fully waterproof or suitable for submersion, but the sealed internal design offers strong protection against perspiration and rain during outdoor runs. Users who need verified splash resistance might prefer models with IP ratings, but for many exercisers the Ript Ultra’s practical sweat defenses are sufficient.

Cleaning advice that works

• Remove the silicone pads after workouts, rinse with mild soapy water, and air-dry before clipping them back on.
• Use a lightly damp microfiber cloth for the headband and external plastic surfaces.
• Avoid submerging the cups or forcing water into ports, especially around the 3.5mm jack and USB-C.

Durability reports from the community have been mixed. Some users have reported breakage incidents online; the reviewer did not encounter such problems during a month of testing. Given the aggressive nature of some gym environments — bags roughed up in lockers, weights jostling in duffels — the Ript Ultra’s tough-feeling plastics and protective case lean toward a pragmatic design that tolerates rough handling better than soft-touch finishes.

Fit, comfort and real-world use during workouts

Stability is the Ript Ultra’s strongest user-experience feature. The headphones clamp firmly and maintain position through short, bouncy runs and dynamic gym sessions. That makes them far more reliable than many other over-ears that loosen or slip during movement.

Comfort is a two-sided coin. The thick silicone pads and firm clamping distribute pressure evenly and prevent the headphones from shifting. Over sessions of an hour or so the fit rarely pinched or produced pain points. On longer runs, particularly in warm weather, the design induced noticeable heat buildup around the ears. Ear sweating and warmth are common with closed, insulated pads — silicone exacerbates this. The in-box alternative pads, which feel softer and resemble leather, reduce heat but sacrifice some of the sweatproof qualities.

Use-case guidance based on testing

• High-intensity interval training and indoor gym work: excellent. The Ript Ultra stick in place and stand up to sweat.
• Short to medium outdoor runs in mild weather: good, with strong stability.
• Long summer runs or extended aerobic sessions: less ideal unless you switch to the softer alternative pads or take frequent cooling breaks.

Small design details matter during exercise. The physical controls are easy to manipulate with gloved or damp hands. The 3.5mm jack provides a fallback for low-latency use on treadmills or for plugging into gym equipment with a shared wired audio output. Weight at 304g is slightly above average for wireless over-ears but not prohibitive for most users. If extreme lightweight comfort is a priority, sports-specific earbuds still offer advantages.

Battery life, connectivity and controls

H20 quotes a 50-hour battery life for the Ript Ultra — presumably with ANC off. That is a solid figure for wireless over-ears and more than sufficient for weeks of intermittent gym sessions without frequent charging. Real-world battery monitoring is less refined: the cans use a simple voice prompt — "battery: high" or "battery: low" — rather than a detailed onboard readout. Many Android phones report the accessory’s battery percentage, but iOS and other platforms may offer inconsistent reporting.

Bluetooth 5.2 provides a modern and stable wireless link, though H20’s site has referenced Bluetooth 5.4 elsewhere. The review unit used Bluetooth 5.2 and did not support additional high-resolution codecs beyond the standard SBC/AAC profiles. That influences both latency and potential audio fidelity compared with headsets that support aptX variants or LC3plus.

Practical notes on power and connectivity

• Expect roughly 50 hours with ANC off; ANC will reduce runtime but not drastically in everyday use.
• Use wired mode via the included 3.5mm cable when you want zero wireless dropouts or slightly improved fidelity.
• Phone battery widgets or OS-level accessory info are the best way to get a numeric battery percentage; the headphone’s own voice prompts are vague.

Controls are straightforward: physical buttons for power and volume, an ANC toggle and a USB-C charging port. The simplicity has advantages during workouts — no need to navigate a touch surface with sweaty fingers — but it also reflects a limitation: there is no companion smartphone app. That means no EQ, no presets, no firmware rollback or advanced settings like a 'find my' function. For a product that launched at a premium price, the absence of software fine-tuning feels notable.

Noise control: passive isolation versus active cancellation

Noise control on the Ript Ultra unfolds in two layers: passive noise cancellation (PNC) delivered by the thick silicone pads and an active noise cancellation (ANC) system that provides incremental benefit.

PNC performance is strong. The large, sealed silicone cups physically block a significant amount of ambient noise without using power. That passive isolation helps block steady gym sounds — treadmill whir, AC hum, nearby chatter — and is present whenever the headphones are worn.

The ANC system is competent but not transformative. Turning ANC on reduces some of the lower-frequency rumble and distant traffic, but it does not compete with the top-tier ANC implementations from mainstream premium brands. The ANC’s effect is best described as subtle; it complements the passive isolation more than it replaces it. Given the PNC already works well, leaving ANC off is a sensible way to maximize battery life unless a specific environment benefits from the active layer.

When ANC matters

• Travel and noisy commutes: ANC adds value but competing ANC systems may do a better job for plane engine hum and train noise.
• Gym settings: PNC is generally sufficient; ANC provides marginal additional reduction.
• Outdoor runs: ANC can be useful for blocking distant noise but always weigh safety — awareness of traffic and surroundings is essential.

Sound quality: drivers, signature and limitations

H20 equipped the Ript Ultra with custom 45mm drivers. That choice suggested punch and potential headroom for impactful low end — desirable for workout contexts. The sonic reality is more measured.

Signature and presentation

• The Ript Ultra exhibit a generally warm, lower-frequency-forward signature.
• Clarity across the midrange and upper frequencies is muted; instruments and voices can blur together.
• Soundstage is narrow, giving a congested, in-your-head feeling rather than an open, expansive image.

Bass behavior

• The headphones deliver noticeable low-end energy, but not always with definition. Bass can feel blended into kick and lower mids, leading to a lack of rhythmic separation on some tracks.
• At times — on certain tracks with strong sub-bass content — the cans produce satisfying weight. Niko Moon’s “Paradise To Me” revealed good sub-bass feel in moments. Those moments are exceptions rather than the rule.

Midrange and treble

• Mids lack the crispness necessary for clear vocal presence on complex mixes. Sam Fender’s “Hypersonic Missiles” showcased how instruments and vocals can appear recorded through the same narrow aperture rather than positioned across a layered field.
• Treble lacks sparkle. Highs do not inject much detail or air, which reduces the excitement of choruses and instrumental highlights that can motivate a workout.

Codec and connection

• No support for higher-bandwidth Bluetooth codecs limits potential fidelity. Bluetooth 5.2 ensures a stable connection but cannot make up for the absence of an EQ or app-based tuning to compensate for the headphones’ natural coloration.

Context matters. Many exercisers prioritize a heavy, driving bass to push workouts, and the Ript Ultra deliver weight. But the lack of separation and clarity means rhythms and melodic hooks that power a training session can sometimes feel less compelling. Users who demand crisp, defined audio for runs and playlists may prefer alternatives with better tuned drivers or an EQ.

Workaround for listeners

• Use the wired 3.5mm connection when precise audio is necessary; wired mode can reduce latency for treadmill or bike displays and sometimes tightens perceived clarity.
• If you want more bass control, consider pairing the Ript Ultra with source-side EQ on your phone or music app since the headphones themselves lack an onboard EQ.

Value: price, alternatives and who should pay the premium

The Ript Ultra launched at $249 / £244 / AU$410. Post-launch price adjustments have occasionally brought them into the ~$200 band in the U.S. and under £200 in the U.K. Those discounts make them more competitive, but the feature and audio trade-offs remain.

Comparative landscape

• Skullcandy Crusher 540 Active: launched at a lower price with a built-in bass slider that lets listeners dial in more pronounced low end. Battery life and features are competitive; at many price points it offers better audio customization for workout listeners.
• Raycon Fitness Headphones: targeted at fitness users with IPX4 or similar ratings, competitive battery life and lighter pricing. Sound quality and fit will vary, but they emphasize water resistance and value.
• Premium non-exercise over-ears: many deliver superior ANC, refined audio and companion apps at the same or lower prices. Those headphones are not sweat-optimized but may suit users who do occasional workouts and want one pair for daily use.

Where the Ript Ultra justify their price

• You need a headphone that tolerates heavy sweat and regular cleaning and you prioritize a secure clamping fit over audiophile clarity.
• You value the convenience of physical controls and the option to plug in via 3.5mm.
• You prefer a dedicated gym/headphone that can stay in a kit bag and survive rougher handling.

Where the price is harder to defend

• You expect refined audio with clear mids and treble, or an EQ app to personalize sound.
• ANC performance and software features (find my, firmware updates, presets) matter in daily commuting or travel use.
• You want an over-ear headphone that doubles as a premium everyday pair.

Price-sensitive buyers should look for sales or explore rivals. H20’s unique selling points — sealed silicone pads, removable and cleanable cushions, and a secure fit — are not easily replicated. Yet, when sound quality and software features are equally important, competing models deliver more in the same price band.

Testing methodology and real-world usage

The review is based on roughly one month of daily use in gym sessions, runs of varying lengths, walks, public transport and everyday activities. Listening sources included Spotify Lossless, Tidal and local files, with video playback tests on YouTube and Prime Video. Call quality and microphone behavior were also evaluated in urban and quieter settings. Battery performance was tracked through repeated charge cycles; ANC impact was assessed by toggling the feature in consistent environments such as gyms and bus commutes.

Scenarios used during testing

• High-intensity interval training: short bursts, repeated stops and starts to test grip and comfort under sweat.
• Medium-distance outdoor runs: 5–12 km runs in temperate and warm conditions to evaluate heat buildup and stability.
• Commutes and public transport: to sample ANC effectiveness against steady low-frequency noise.
• Wired use on gym equipment and for video playback to measure latency and clarity differences.

Limitations of testing

• No formal lab measurements of frequency response or ANC attenuation curves were performed. The review focuses on subjective listening impressions and practical usability metrics.

The testing approach mirrors how most users will evaluate workout headphones: through repeated, varied sessions rather than isolated lab runs. That approach highlights the Ript Ultra’s day-to-day strengths and exposes the trade-offs that matter in real environments.

Practical tips for owners and prospective buyers

• If you plan long outdoor sessions in heat, swap to the softer in-box pads to reduce ear warmth. Reserve silicone pads for the sweatiest sessions or when hygiene is a priority.
• Rinse silicone pads after heavy use and let them dry completely before reattaching. This prevents microbial buildup and prolongs material life.
• Use wired mode when connecting to gym consoles or when you require minimal latency for synced video or bike trainers.
• Monitor battery percentage with your phone rather than relying on the headphones’ voice prompts for precision.
• Treat the plastic shell as intentionally rugged; avoid excessive twisting to prevent stress around folding joints.
• If you need stronger ANC or an EQ, research alternatives with companion apps and proven ANC performance rather than hoping for firmware improvements — the Ript Ultra lacks a dedicated app.

Who should buy the Ript Ultra — and who should look elsewhere

Buy the Ript Ultra if:

• Daily workouts involve heavy sweating and you want headphones that can be cleaned easily without risking driver damage.
• Secure, non-slip fit in motion is essential.
• You value simplicity: physical buttons, long battery life, wired backup and durable construction.

Avoid the Ript Ultra if:

• High-fidelity audio, strong ANC, and app-driven customization are priorities.
• You want a single pair of headphones to serve both premium daily listening and workouts.
• Lightweight comfort for marathon-length runs in hot climates is critical.

The Ript Ultra occupies a narrow but real niche: users who prioritize rugged, sweat-ready engineering over sonic nuance and software depth. For those users, the headphones deliver on their promise. For anyone balancing gym use with the need for detailed audio on commutes or travel, alternatives may offer a better cross-section of features.

Verdict

H20 Audio built a headphone that addresses concrete problems exercisers face with conventional over-ears: sweat ingress, cleaning difficulty, and poor stability during motion. The Ript Ultra achieve those aims convincingly. Removable, sealed silicone pads and a firm clamp produce a pair of headphones that truly feel built for the gym bag.

Trade-offs remain unavoidable. The Ript Ultra’s sound signature leans warm and often muddy, ANC provides only marginal gains beyond the already effective passive isolation, and the absence of a companion app removes customization options listeners increasingly expect. Given the initial price, the value equation tilts toward niche users: those who need durable, cleanable, stay-put headphones and can live without EQ or app-driven features.

When discounted toward the $200 mark the Ript Ultra become easier to recommend for their specific use case. At full launch price, they feel like a product that should offer more: finer audio control, stronger ANC and a software layer to manage settings. H20’s focus on durability and sweat resistance sets them apart, but that focus also constrains their appeal.

FAQ

Q: Are the H20 Audio Ript Ultra waterproof? A: H20 does not publish an IP rating for the Ript Ultra. Their sealed silicone ear cushions and removable design make the drivers well-protected against sweat and light rain, but the headphones should not be assumed safe for submersion or heavy water exposure. Avoid intentionally soaking them.

Q: How long does the battery last in real use? A: H20 quotes up to 50 hours (presumably with ANC off). In practical usage, expect roughly that figure with ANC disabled. Activating ANC reduces runtime modestly. The headphones provide only vague voice battery reports; use your phone’s accessory battery indicator for a precise percentage.

Q: Do the Ript Ultra have an app or EQ? A: No. There is no companion smartphone app, and no onboard equalizer. Sound customization must come from your source device or music app.

Q: Can I use them wired? A: Yes. The Ript Ultra include a 3.5mm jack on the right cup and support wired operation. Wired use can reduce latency and sometimes improve perceived clarity compared with Bluetooth.

Q: How is the ANC performance? A: ANC is present but subtle. The thick silicone pads provide strong passive isolation, and ANC adds a marginal reduction in ambient low-frequency noise. The ANC does not match top-tier active systems from some mainstream premium brands.

Q: Are the ear pads replaceable or washable? A: The silicone pads are removable and washable. H20 also includes softer, leather-like alternate pads in the box for comfort. Follow gentle cleaning practices: mild soapy water and full air drying before reuse.

Q: Who should buy these headphones? A: They suit exercisers who need sweatproof, hard-wearing over-ears that stay put during vigorous training and can be cleaned easily. They are less suited to listeners prioritizing top-tier ANC, detailed sonic clarity, or app-driven features.

Q: What are good alternatives? A: Consider the Skullcandy Crusher 540 Active if you want a customizable bass experience and a lower launch price. Raycon’s fitness-focused models offer IP-rated options and value pricing. If you want premium ANC and refined audio for commuting and travel as well as workouts, look at mainstream over-ears with proven ANC and companion apps, though they may need extra protection from sweat.

Q: Do they come in different colors or limited editions? A: Yes. The default colors are black and gray, with special editions like a pink Betty x RIPT and an orange Zwift x RIPT model. The special editions are design-only variants without additional features.

Q: Is there any evidence of durability issues? A: Some user reports online mention breakage incidents, but the reviewer experienced no failures during a month of regular use. The Ript Ultra’s tough plastic and solid clamps suggest intentional durability-focused construction. Still, consider warranty and return policies and treat folding joints with reasonable care.

Q: Will these headphones be good for long-distance running? A: They provide excellent stability, but the sealed silicone pads can get hot over extended runs in warm conditions. For long summer runs they may be less comfortable unless you use the softer alternate pads or break sessions to cool down.

Q: Can I make phone calls with them? A: Yes, they support calls, but the review did not emphasize microphone quality as a standout feature. Expect acceptable performance for routine calls rather than studio-grade clarity.

Q: Are there firmware updates? A: Without a companion app, firmware updates are unlikely to be user-facing. If H20 offers firmware updates via USB in the future, they would need to provide instructions; currently no app-based update mechanism is available.

Q: Any tips to improve audio? A: Use wired mode when possible, apply source-side EQ in your music app, and experiment with different in-box pads to find the best balance of comfort and isolation for your ears.