We’ve seen technology collaborations before – Sony and Billabong recently got it on to create the Sony VAIO W Billabong Netbook. Well O’Neill seem to have got in on the act this time and have partnered with Philips to launch a range of new active headphones.

The Philips O’Neill range of headphones are designed using some of the same wetsuit materials as the company’s heavy duty wetsuits – but despite the technology you won’t be wearing these little beauties on the water – as they just ain’t waterproof!

The Stretch

Philips O'Neill Stretch

The Stretch headphones above are the toughest of the bunch, constructed from an ultra-durable, temperature-resistant, and awesome-sounding material called TR 55LX that boasts a surface hardness six times greater than the polycarbonate stuff found in most headphones.

The Snug

Philips O'Neill Snug

The Snug series boasts “bold graphics” and can fold flat

The Covert

Philips O'Neill Covert

Next up is The Covert ,”a discreet bud with deceptively powerful sound impact and iPhone control”. It is fitted with 13mm drivers and includes a microphone and volume controller allowing remote control of iPods and iPhones.

The Specked

Philips O'Neill Specked

The Specked, which includes a range of three striking coloured in-ear buds. It is the entry-level model in the range and comes with smaller 9mm drivers.

Tested by O’Neill team Riders

According to the O’Neill PR boys the headphones have been put through their paces with teh O’Neill team riders – with the likes of Jeremy Jones, Mark Mathews, and Ane Enderud all testing them out.

No pricing has been announced, but both are due to go on sale in Europe and the US this month.