I cant describe it, but the sound feels like its coming from around you, not pumping directly into your ears like most headphones. Vinyl coating helps protect against damage to the bikes frame. I apologize for my optimistic review; I must have tried too hard to like this product. Great quality good sound and microphone on a call other hear you greatly Great support, SUPER comfy. Very comfy once you know how to wear it😂 the collar of the shoe ( where you insert your foot ) is too tight so it’s kind of hard to put it on although I’m usually a size 7. The quality of the sound juststopped me right there by plugging in. I was wrong they work great. This can, and does, come loose over time, and is not particularly impressive even when first tightened. Very good noise cancellation.