• WEIGHT: 200g (7oz)
• BATTERY LIFE: Up to 22 hours
• Price: £89 / €99

As an aspiring entrepreneur in the mid-90s, Rick Alden had what might well be the first crack at perfecting a step-in binding system. It didn’t work out, obviously (and depending on who you ask, we’ve only recently got there over two decades later), but a future venture of his would prove to be much more successful.

Skullcandy headphones are aimed squarely at snowboarders and their ilk, but have transcended into the mainstream thanks to their combination of effective design, portability and affordability. Currently top of the tree is this pair right here; the Skullcandy Hesh 3 Wireless headphones.

“A quick ten-minute burst of charge means you’ll be good for up to four hours of use”

As the name suggests, you don’t need a cable with these (although the option is there). Thanks to easy-to-use Bluetooth connectivity, you can keep your phone stashed away once your music is on, and control everything using the simple three-button interface.

Tap a side button for volume up/down, or hold it to skip track – it couldn’t be easier. You can take calls through these too, using the same buttons. It’s one press of the middle button to answer, or a three-second hold to reject, so you don’t need to wait for it to ring out.

The plush design of the ear cushions means that you won’t feel the need to take a break from these on long journeys. The sound quality is excellent too, especially when you compare the price tag to rival ‘hones. We’re also really impressed with how they fold down for compact carry.