I needed something durable for the gym and outdoor use, with compatibility for iOS. I generally prefer over or on-ear headphones, but they're no good for the gym or summer activities. The AS-5i from Klipsch seemed to tick all the boxes for me - I also wanted something to help keep the headphones in place, a clip for the remote, and a nice color. So far, they do not disappoint. I typically listen to heavy metal, classic rock, and punk. Whether it's the Eagles, Overkill, the Dwarves, Van Halen, Queen, or the Wildhearts, vocals are clear, bass and drums are tight, and minor effects can be picked up. I can shut out most annoying conversations from my commute, while staying aware enough if I need to hear an announcement. The mic picks up my voice clearly. I can even listen to music in bed.
Some cons: the cord tangles easily, and the shape of the ear hooks don't help in this regard. Pictures of the blue model were a nice royal blue, but they are actually a few shades lighter. The length of the cord is a help and a hindrance. It's long enough to ensure you can keep your device in your pocket or on a desk, but it snags easily. I've had it caught in a screw on some scaffolding, and had it knocked out by someone's arm in the elevator. Since the hooks to keep the gels in place go behind and around the ear, wearing sunglasses can be a little tricky.
As for the fit, since I don't have so much experience with in-ear models, my opinion may not hold up to others with more experience. Yes, fit is both a pro and a con. I initially just jammed them into my ears straight-on, but they had a tendency to just pop out. I realized they had to be angled in, and this helped with the fit. I also couldn't decide between the medium or large gels, finally realizing the mediums for me. The hooks help keep them in place, but if the gels don't seal in the ear well, you lose some of the sound. The drivers are connected to some sort of flexible wire, helping with the angle. I just hope they hold up. (April 2016 update, they have!)
