Sennheiser's PXC250 headphones offer a lighter construction than the others here. The narrow headband and on-ear design may not have been in vogue since the mid-80s, but they do have advantages when it comes to travel.
On the down side, they don't physically block out as much noise as the circumaural designs, nor can they compete with the bung-like properties of sound-isolating earbuds or the Sony NC22s (opposite). They also allow more sound leakage, even at medium volume, which won't be appreciated by fellow passengers.
Then again, they're light
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and comfortable to wear and a good deal easier to cart around. Not only do the pads fold flat, but the cushioned headband is hinged to slip into a larger pocket or the included belt-wearable pouch. The Sennheisers seem robust enough for an occasional cram into a bag, although parts aren't replaceable if they get crushed.
All the circuitry is housed in a hefty 13cm dongle halfway along the cord. This takes two AAA batteries (not included) and sports an easily seen LED display next to the solid on/off switch, although surprisingly there's no volume dial. The headphones also work passively without batteries.
Sound quality was excellent, with a well managed bass response, airy top end (possibly even too much so), and all-round competent handling of even complex material. The noise cancelling is among the most effective, although using it simply to block out sound, without music playing, revealed a little hiss.
As a middle ground between smaller in-ear and heftier circumaural designs, the PXC250s aren't so expensive you'd be scared to leave the house with them, and offer excellent sound quality with long-journey comfort.
