I also wasnt sure if it could hold all the weight (be mindful of the weight capacity! Also with the rivets I wont have to worry about hardware rust. An hour workout will turn into 2 with these bands. I?m assuming the sound is average. There is only marginal improvement in situational awareness in my case. Fit and function for earbuds are extremely dependent on each user, but these devices work very well for me (after my wife handed them down after finding them very uncomfortable for her use). Range is pretty good and quality is decent! They are quite lovely but, as yet, unworn. I have a mother who is hard of hearing and I thought these would be great for her. I am pretty Pleased with them.