By Owen PalmerUpdated November 2026
If your Bose headphones cushion replacement is overdue, the right ear pads can restore comfort, seal and sound without replacing the whole headset. Cushions wear out through compressed foam, cracked protein leather and peeling adhesive, and a fresh set often brings back the isolation you lost. The picks below focus on three criteria: fit with the Bose model named in each listing, the material used for the ear contact surface, and how consistently owners describe the pads holding up over time.
Our top picks at a glance
- 1
TOP CHOICEBest overallQC35 Ear Pads – Replacement Earpads Ear Cushions for Bose QuietComfortView on Amazon - 2
Best for long-term durabilityPremium Replacement Ear Pads for Bose QC35 & QC35ii Headphones Made by GEVOView on Amazon - 3
Best budget pickReplacement Ear Pads for Bose QuietComfort QC 35 (ii) 25 15 2 HeadphonesView on Amazon
Our Top Picks
| Product | Best for | Key feature |
|---|---|---|
| QC35 Ear Pads – Replacement Earpads for Bose QuietComfort 35 II and QC35 | Owners who want a straightforward fit for QC35 and QC35 II | Listed for QuietComfort 35 II and QC35 models |
| Premium Replacement Ear Pads for Bose QC35 & QC35ii by GEVO | Buyers who prioritize cushion firmness and longevity | Adaptive memory foam with a durability focus |
| Replacement Ear Pads for Bose QuietComfort QC 35 (ii) 25 15 2 | Shoppers replacing pads on several older Bose models | Tear-proof earpad cushion with broad compatibility |
QC35 Ear Pads – Replacement Earpads Ear Cushions for Bose QuietComfort 35 II and QC35 Headphones & More (Black)
QC35 Ear Pads – Replacement Earpads Ear Cushions for Bose QuietComfort 35 II and QC35 Headphones & More(Black)
Best for: Owners who want a straightforward replacement that matches the original QC35 and QC35 II design.
This set suits anyone whose original pads have flattened, cracked or lost their seal, and who wants to stay close to the stock Bose look and fit. The listing names the QC35 II and QC35 as primary compatibility targets, which makes it an easy first check.
Key specs:
- Designed for Bose QuietComfort 35 II and QC35 over-ear headphones
- Black color, matching the standard QC35 finish
- Sold as a replacement ear cushion set
Pros:
- Clearly lists the QC35 and QC35 II models in the title
- Black finish blends with the original headset
- Straightforward install with no tools needed, according to common owner descriptions
Cons:
- Owners report that fit can feel slightly looser on some headsets, so measure your current pads first
- Long-term wear depends on how often the headset is worn and stored
Bottom line: A good first choice for QC35 or QC35 II owners who want a dependable, close-to-original replacement.
Premium Replacement Ear Pads for Bose QC35 & QC35ii Headphones Made by GEVO
Premium Replacement Ear Pads for Bose QC35 & QC35ii Headphones Made by GEVO- Comfortable Adaptive Memory Foam and Extra Durable – Fits QuietComfort 35 & 35ii / SoundLink 1&2 AE（Over-Ear） (Silver)
Best for: Buyers who want a firmer, longer-lasting cushion and are willing to pay attention to fit details.
This set is aimed at owners who have worn through standard pads quickly or who want a more substantial feel during long listening sessions. The listing emphasizes adaptive memory foam and durability, and it names the QC35, QC35 II and SoundLink 1 and 2 as compatible headsets.
Key specs:
- Listed for Bose QC35, QC35 II and SoundLink 1 and 2 over-ear headphones
- Adaptive memory foam cushion design
- Silver finish
Pros:
- Memory foam is marketed for conforming to the head over time
- Explicit durability focus compared with generic pads
- Broad compatibility across several Bose over-ear models
Cons:
- The silver finish will not match a black headset, which some buyers dislike
- Some owners note the firmer foam can feel snug at first
Bottom line: Best for owners who want a sturdier, more durable cushion and don’t mind a visible color contrast.
Replacement Ear Pads for Bose QuietComfort QC 35 (ii) 25 15 2 Headphones
Replacement Ear Pads for Bose QuietComfort QC 35 (ii) 25 15 2 Headphones, Tear-Proof Earpads Cushion for QC35 (ii) QC25 QC15 QC2 SoundTrue/SoundLink AE2/AE2i/AE2w Around-Ear Headphones (Black)
Best for: Shoppers who own more than one Bose model and want one set of pads that covers several headsets.
This option lists a wide range of Bose models, from QC35 and QC25 to QC15, QC2 and several SoundTrue and SoundLink AE models. It works well for households with mixed Bose headphones who want to keep spare pads on hand.
Key specs:
- Listed for QC35 (ii), QC25, QC15, QC2 and SoundTrue/SoundLink AE2 models
- Black finish
- Tear-proof earpad cushion design, as described in the listing
Pros:
- Wide model compatibility makes it useful for multiple headsets
- Black finish matches most original Bose designs
- Tear-proof claim addresses a common failure point of older pads
Cons:
- Broad compatibility means fit can vary slightly by model, so check your exact headset
- Owners often report that the material feels less plush than premium memory foam options
Bottom line: A practical pick for owners of several Bose models who want one reliable set of replacement cushions.
Buying Guide
Confirm your exact Bose model
Ear pads are not interchangeable across all Bose headphones. Check the model name printed on the headband or inside the earcup before ordering. Listings usually name the models they fit, so match that list carefully.
Good picks for this: QC35 Ear Pads and Replacement Ear Pads for Bose QuietComfort QC 35 (ii) 25 15 2 Headphones
Cushion material and feel
Protein leather, synthetic leather and memory foam each feel different. Memory foam generally conforms more closely to the head, while leatherette surfaces are easier to wipe clean. Consider how long you wear the headset in a session when weighing softness against firmness.
Good picks for this: Premium Replacement Ear Pads by GEVO and QC35 Ear Pads
Size and fit
Measure the outer diameter of your current pad and compare it with the listing dimensions where provided. A pad that is too small will break the seal, and one that is too large may press against the ears. Fit also depends on how the ear pad attaches to the earcup, so check the mounting style.
Good picks for this: QC35 Ear Pads and Premium Replacement Ear Pads by GEVO
Noise isolation and seal
Passive isolation depends heavily on a tight seal. Worn or flattened cushions leak sound, which can make noise cancellation feel weaker. A fresh, well-fitted pad often restores the isolation owners remember from new headphones.
Good picks for this: Premium Replacement Ear Pads by GEVO and Replacement Ear Pads for Bose QuietComfort QC 35 (ii) 25 15 2 Headphones
Durability and tear resistance
Cracking and peeling are the most common failure points. Look for listings that mention tear resistance or durable materials, and remember that frequent folding, sweat and storage in hot cars accelerate wear.
Good picks for this: Premium Replacement Ear Pads by GEVO and Replacement Ear Pads for Bose QuietComfort QC 35 (ii) 25 15 2 Headphones
Color and appearance
Black pads blend with most original Bose headsets, while silver or other finishes create a visible contrast. Choose based on whether you want the pads to look original or to stand out.
Good picks for this: QC35 Ear Pads and Replacement Ear Pads for Bose QuietComfort QC 35 (ii) 25 15 2 Headphones
Installation and care
Most ear pads snap or slide onto the earcup. Power off the headset before removing old pads, and avoid pulling on wires. Wipe leatherette surfaces with a slightly damp cloth and let them dry fully before use. Manufacturers generally advise keeping pads away from heat and direct sunlight.
Good picks for this: QC35 Ear Pads and Premium Replacement Ear Pads by GEVO
FAQ
How do I know when Bose ear cushions need replacing?
Common signs include cracked or peeling surfaces, flattened foam, a loose seal that lets in outside noise, and pads that feel stiff or uneven. Sweat-related odor or stickiness is another sign that a replacement is due.
Can I use one set of ear pads on several Bose models?
Sometimes, but only when the listing names your exact model. Pads for QC35 may not fit QC25 or QC15 perfectly, so check the compatibility list before buying.
Do I need tools to replace Bose ear pads?
Most replacements are designed to snap or slide on without tools. Gently pull the old pad away from the earcup, then press the new one into place. Avoid forcing it, which can damage the mounting clips.
Is memory foam better than leatherette for ear pads?
Memory foam often feels softer and conforms to the head, while leatherette is easier to clean and holds up well to wiping. Neither is universally better, so pick based on comfort preferences and how you use the headset.
Will new ear pads improve noise cancellation?
New pads can restore a tight seal that improves passive isolation, which may make active noise cancellation feel more effective. They do not change the electronics, so results depend on the headset itself.
How long do replacement ear pads usually last?
Lifespan varies with use, sweat, storage and material. Owners often report that pads last from several months to a few years, so inspect them periodically.
Conclusion
For most QC35 or QC35 II owners, the QC35 Ear Pads offer a dependable, close-to-original fit. Buyers who prioritize firmness and durability may prefer the Premium Replacement Ear Pads by GEVO, while owners of several Bose models will find the broader-compatibility set more practical. Always confirm your exact model against the listing before ordering.
Sources
- Consumer product safety guidance on wearable electronics and general use recommendations (cpsc.gov)
- Information on hearing health and safe listening levels for headphone users (nidcd.nih.gov)
- General noise exposure guidance relevant to long listening sessions (osha.gov)
Related reading
- Replace Cushions Bose Headphones: 6 Best Ear Pads Compared (2026)
- Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones Ear Cushion Kit Review (2026)
- Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 Cushion Kit: A Practical Guide (2026)
- Bose Headphones Replace Pads: 6 Best Ear Pad Replacements (2026)
- Bose Headphones Earbud Replacement: How to Get a Single Earbud Replaced
- Bose Headphones Cord Replacement: 5 Best Options Compared (2026)
About Owen Palmer
Owen Palmer is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our brand headphones & noise cancelling guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.
