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I nearly always run with music, and I've tried many different MP3 players over the years. My favorite player is currently the SanDisk {{ClipZip}}, but different people want different things from their music player, so I've got a number of recommendations depending on your requirements.
=What to look for in an MP3 Player=
[[File:Portapro.jpg|right|thumb|100px|Sound quality is more about your [[Headphones for Running| headphones]] than the player, especially when you're running.]]
* '''Size. '''For running, an ideal MP3 player should be small enough to clip on. While a larger MP3 player can be strapped to an arm or put in a pocket, smaller is better.
* '''Buttons.''' Physical buttons are much easier to use while running than a touchscreen, which is awkward at best. You can't operate a touch screen without looking, and touchscreens don't generally work well with gloves or sweaty hands.
=Recommendations=
These four players are my top recommendations depending on your requirements.
{| class="wikitable"
! Player
! Recommended for
** There are waterproof cases for the Shuffle, but they tend to be expensive and comparatively bulky.
=SanDisk Clip Zip (with Rockbox)=
The {{ClipZip}} is nearly perfect as a music player for running, but it requires some geek knowhow as you'll need to use the open source [http://www.rockbox.org/ Rockbox firmware] to get the best out of it. (The Clip Zip has been discontinued, and because the replacement Clip Sport doesn't support Rockbox, the price of the Clip Zip is climbing.)
==Clip Zip Pros==
* The {{ClipZip}} is small, but large enough to have usable buttons and display.