Nowadays, Bluetooth speakers are a dime a dozen. There are seemingly thousands of different ones from which to choose, all released by different brands, in different models, to serve different functions, and blah blah blah blah blah. The point is, Bluetooth tech is in a huge expansion phase, and as a consumer, your options are plentiful. But when it comes to ruggedness and resilience? Well, not every Bluetooth speaker is created equal, and not all can stand up to the terrain in the mountains, life out on the trails, a deep sea fishing excursion, or even a backyard BBQ. In order to set the record straight, we went ahead and put together our list of the best no-nonsense outdoor speakers:
BRAVEN BRV-X Wireless Bluetooth Speaker
Shockproof, waterproof, and—by extension—tequila proof, the BRAVAN BRV-X is the latest addition to the BRV camp. Solidly constructed with a rubberized molding and high-impact plastic means that whether you’re looking for something to take on your camping trip, bring to the beach, or keep poolside, the BRAVEN BRV-X can probably stand up to whatever you dish out. $127
Eton Rukus Portable Bluetooth Solar Powered Wireless Speaker System
Is it water resistant? No. Shockproof? Probably not. But what the Eton Rukus lacks in the resilience and ruggedness, it more than makes up for in its innovative handiness. The Rukus features a self-charging solar panel that, on a complete charge, can keep the party going for 6 hours. And in direct sunlight, the fun is infinite! The Rukus also features a USB port for convenient mobile device charging, which is always helpful in a bind. $433
Sony Glass Sound Speaker
The Sony Glass Sound arrives later this month, and we’re absolutely in love with it. Aside from the crystal-clear sound coming through Sony’s impeccable audio tech, the soft LED light source makes the Glass Sound Speaker excellent for barbecues, birthday shindigs, campouts, or just about anywhere you can see yourself needing a lighted soundtrack—which, far as we’re concerned, should be everywhere! Link
Nixon Blaster Pro Wireless Speaker
Nixon isn’t known for their quality sound systems or fine audio equipment. In fact, what they are known for—wristwatches and men’s accessories—have absolutely nothing to do with speakers. And yet, their Blaster Pro Wireless Speaker makes our list because it truly is a work of art. Small, compact, and punchy, with a decent battery life of up to 10 hours, the Blaster Pro was built to stand up to whatever the world throws down. As with most of Nixon’s gear, the Blaster Pro was engineered specifically for life in the sand, surf, and at the skate park. $120
FUGOO Sport XL
The main draw to FUGOO’s Sport XL speaker isn’t its ability to withstand a beating, its awesome 360-degree sound quality, or its three-foot water resistance. All that stuff kicks ass, of course, but the main selling point of the Sport XL has to be its incredible 35-hour battery life. No, that’s not a typo or a misprint. This thing has a 35-hour battery life. Best in its class and unrivaled by any, all from a brand whose name we can’t pronounce. Go figure. $250