Earphones

Try yourself some "Comply" tips for a set of headphones, they do the job of keeping noise out pretty decently for not a lot of cash - just add them to some normal in earphones, they are also pretty comfy for long term usage. Used them on a couple of flights to the US and do the job of keeping out the screaming kids and allowed me to sleep soundly.
Not sure on active noise cancelling kit - they use a microphone I believe, may become useless at higher speeds with windnoise. From what I understand of the technology it is designed to deal with a bassy constant drone like found on an airplane and sends an "opposite" signal to cancel it out.
Another option is custom ear casting which can also incorporate headphones. These would be my preference as would prevent your ears getting sore if your helmet is tight round your ears. I have a set of custom molded plugs done at a bike show a few years back and they are superb.

 

I have Bose noise cancelling 20i

Good points
Great sound - maybe not the best for the money but good all round

Comfy - can't feel them in ears when riding

Noise cancelling - just done 1400 miles round France , works great really great

You have two settings or can turn off - you can hear high pitch more it's kinda odd - you can hear sirens and what's around still

You can use with no music so work like expensive earplugs

Volume and on off switch on toggle


Bad points
They have a battery which is slim but obviously you have to recharge (mini USB ). They will work when flat but no noise cancelling

The battery can't be replaced so depending on how much you use it will die after several years (by which time you will probably have lost)


They are very expensive but if you go to Portsmouth outlet they have some @20% off

When going fast past lorries you do sometimes get a bit if a quick 'boom' which can be annoying but only issue , no wind whistle whatsoever

 

Bit of an understatement there Char ?

 

I was allowed to wear them once
I normally wear these veho ones, there good and cheap

 

Cheaper than a pair of shoes :wink:

 

this technology was originally developed for fighter pilots, so with some tweaks, should work well with helmets. About time someone bought out some helmet speakers with this.