As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This page may contain affiliate links.
If your Bose headphones have flattened, cracked or started to peel, replacement pads for Bose headphones are usually the fastest way to restore comfort and passive isolation without buying a new pair. Most of the worn-out pads we see discussed by owners are on the QuietComfort 35 family, where the ear cushions are the first part to show age. This guide compares five replacement sets built for Bose over-ear models, sorted by how well each one fits the most common use cases. Our selection criteria were fit to the Bose model, pad material and foam density, cover durability, color options, and the general patterns owners report about seal quality and long-term wear.
Our Top Picks
Quick Comparison
| Product | Best for | Key feature |
|---|---|---|
| QC35 Ear Pads – Replacement Earpads Ear Cushions for Bose QuietComfort 35 II and QC35 Headphones & More (Black) | Owners wanting a straightforward black replacement for QC35 models | Broad compatibility across QC35 and QC35 II |
| Earpads for Bose Quiet Comfort QC 35 / QC35 ii / QC25 / QC15 Headphone | Owners with older QC15 or QC25 units alongside QC35 models | Listed fit spans several earlier Bose generations |
| for (QuietComfort35 & Quiet Comfort35 ii) Headphones Earpads for Bose QC35 & QC35 ii – Black | Buyers who want a simple, direct QC35 II match | Black finish matching the original pads |
| Premium Replacement Ear Pads for Bose QC35 & QC35ii Headphones Made by GEVO | Long-session comfort and a firmer, more padded feel | Adaptive memory foam with a durable outer cover |
| for QuietComfort QC15/QC25/QC2/QC35, (SoundTrue/SoundLink) Around-Ear I/II, AE2/AE2i Earpads for Bose Headphones (Black and Blue) | Owners of several Bose models or two-tone style preferences | Wide model list and black-and-blue color option |
QC35 Ear Pads – Replacement Earpads Ear Cushions for Bose QuietComfort 35 II and QC35 Headphones
QC35 Ear Pads – Replacement Earpads Ear Cushions for Bose QuietComfort 35 II and QC35 Headphones & More(Black)
This is a good starting point for someone who owns a QuietComfort 35 or QC35 II and wants a like-for-like black replacement. It suits owners who are not looking for a change in feel, only restored cushioning and seal.
Key specs
- Designed as a replacement for Bose QuietComfort 35 and QC35 II over-ear headphones
- Black color
- Sold as a pair of ear cushions
Pros
- Matches the original QC35 shape and size, which helps the headband clamp force feel unchanged
- Simple black finish blends with the headphones’ original look
- Easy to install following the steps in our guide on how to replace headphone ear pads How to Replace Your Headphone Ear Pads
Cons
- Fit is specific to QC35 family models, so check your model before buying
- Foam feel varies between replacement brands, and this set will not match the original foam exactly
Earpads for Bose Quiet Comfort QC 35 / QC35 ii / QC25 / QC15 Headphone
Earpads for Bose Quiet Comfort QC 35 / QC35 ii / QC25 / QC15 Headphone
This set is aimed at owners who have more than one Bose generation in the house, or who own an older QC15 or QC25 and a QC35. Its listed compatibility range is the main draw.
Key specs
- Listed for Bose QuietComfort 35, QC35 II, QC25 and QC15 headphones
- Sold as a replacement ear pad pair
Pros
- Covers several Bose models under one listing
- Useful as a spare set for households with multiple pairs
- Straightforward to fit onto the ear cups once the old pads are removed
Cons
- A single set across several generations can mean slightly less exact fit on any one model
- Owners who want a specific material feel should confirm the foam type with the seller before buying
for (QuietComfort35 & Quiet Comfort35 ii) Headphones Earpads for Bose QC35 & QC35 ii – Black
for (QuietComfort35 & Quiet Comfort35 ii) Headphones Earpads for Bose QC35 & QC35 ii – Black
This is a direct-fit option for a QC35 or QC35 II owner who wants a black replacement and nothing more. It works well for a quick swap when the original cushions have dried out or split.
Key specs
- Designed for Bose QuietComfort 35 and QC35 II headphones
- Black color
- Sold as a pair
Pros
- Focused on one model family, which keeps the fit expectations clear
- Black finish matches the original color scheme
- Good for a simple restoration rather than a style change
Cons
- Limited to QC35 family models, so not suited to older or different Bose headphones
- Exact feel and seal depend on the replacement material, which differs from Bose originals
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)
This set is built for owners who spend long hours in their headphones and want a firmer, more cushioned feel. It also lists compatibility with SoundLink 1 and 2 around-ear models, which may suit owners of those headphones.
Key specs
- Designed for Bose QC35 and QC35 II, and listed for SoundLink 1 and 2 around-ear models
- Advertised adaptive memory foam
- Silver colorway
Pros
- Memory foam is intended to conform to the head for a snugger, more padded fit
- Outer material is described as extra durable, which suits frequent travel
- Covers more than one Bose line, which broadens its use
Cons
- Silver finish will look different from the original black and may not suit every owner
- Thicker foam can change the clamp feel, so some owners may want to test the fit after installing
for QuietComfort QC15/QC25/QC2/QC35, (SoundTrue/SoundLink) Around-Ear I/II, AE2/AE2i Earpads for Bose Headphones – Black&Blue
for QuietComfort QC15/QC25/QC2/QC35, (SoundTrue/SoundLink)Around-Ear I/II, AE2/AE2i Earpads for Bose Headphones – Black&Blue
This is the broadest compatibility list among the five, covering several QuietComfort, SoundTrue, SoundLink and AE model names. It suits owners with a mix of Bose headphones or anyone who wants a black-and-blue style.
Key specs
- Listed for QuietComfort QC15, QC25, QC2 and QC35, plus SoundTrue and SoundLink around-ear models and AE2/AE2i
- Black and blue color option
- Sold as a pair
Pros
- Wide model list makes it useful for households with several Bose headphones
- Black-and-blue design offers a visible style change if you want one
- Can serve as a backup set across different Bose generations
Cons
- Broad compatibility means you should double-check your exact model name before ordering
- The two-tone design will not match a plain black headset, which may matter to some buyers
Buying Guide
Choosing the right replacement pads comes down to three things: model compatibility, the pad material, and the finish. Get the first one wrong and nothing else matters, because a pad that does not sit flush on the cup will leak sound and lose passive isolation. For a deeper background, see our overview on how to choose headphone ear pads How to Choose Headphone Ear Pads.
Start with your exact model
Bose has released several generations of over-ear headphones, and the ear cup shape differs between families. Look at the model name printed inside the headband or on the box, then compare it to the compatibility list in the product listing. Pads sized for QuietComfort 35 are not always a clean match for older QuietComfort 15 or 25 cups, and the reverse is also true.
Foam and cover material
Original Bose pads use a soft foam covered in a synthetic leather. Replacement sets use a range of foams, from standard foam to memory foam, and covers that vary in stitching and stretch. Memory foam tends to hold its shape and feel more padded, while standard foam may feel lighter and firmer over time. Owners often report that a thicker pad can slightly increase clamp pressure, so if you have a tight headband already, a thinner foam may be more comfortable.
Specs to check before buying
- Exact Bose model compatibility, including the generation number
- Foam type (standard or memory foam) and whether it is described as adaptive
- Cover material and whether the seam or stitching is noted as reinforced
- Color and finish, especially if you want to match the original black
- Whether the set is sold as a pair, which it normally is for ear cushions
Choosing by need
- Restoring a QC35 to original feel: a direct-fit black set is usually the simplest choice.
- Several Bose models at home: a set with a broad compatibility list can save you from buying multiple versions.
- Long listening sessions: a memory foam set with a durable cover may suit you better.
- Style change: a color option such as black-and-blue lets you refresh the look.
Things to watch out for
- Do not assume a generic “fits most” listing will seal the way the original did. Check the model names carefully.
- Store the old pads if you plan to resell the headphones, since a complete set helps resale value.
- If your headphones have cracked plastic, a new pad will not fix the damage, so inspect the cups before ordering.
- For tips on keeping new pads in good shape, read how to clean headphone ear pads How to Clean Headphone Ear Pads.
FAQ
Will replacement pads for Bose headphones change the sound?
They can. The seal affects how much sound leaks in and out, which changes bass response and isolation. A well-fitting pad should sound close to the original, while a loose or mismatched pad can make bass feel thinner. Foam density can also affect how the cup sits against the head.
How do I know which pads my Bose headphones need?
Check the model name inside the headband or on the original box, then match it to the compatibility list in the listing. QuietComfort 35 and QC35 II share a pad design in many listings, but older and different Bose families may not.
Are memory foam pads better than standard foam?
Memory foam is intended to conform to the head and hold its shape longer, which many owners find more comfortable for extended wear. Standard foam can feel lighter. Neither is universally better; comfort depends on your head shape and how long you wear the headphones.
Can I replace the pads myself?
In most cases, yes. The pads usually pull off the ear cup and snap or press back on. Take photos before removing the old pads so you can check the orientation. Our step-by-step guide on how to replace headphone ear pads How to Replace Your Headphone Ear Pads walks through the process.
How often should ear pads be replaced?
There is no fixed schedule. Owners commonly replace pads when the foam flattens, the cover cracks or peels, or the seal feels looser than it used to. Frequent travel and heavy daily use tend to shorten pad life.
Do replacement pads work with Bose headphone cases?
Pads and cases are separate purchases. A case protects the headphones when they are stored or moved, while pads affect comfort and isolation. If you are also shopping for protection, our article on best replacement ear pads and headphone cases Best Replacement Ear Pads and Headphone Cases covers both.
Is it worth replacing pads instead of buying new headphones?
For many owners it is. If the headband, cups and electronics are working well, new pads can restore comfort and seal at a fraction of the cost of a new pair. If the cups are cracked or the electronics fail, pads will not solve the underlying problem.
Conclusion
For a direct QuietComfort 35 or QC35 II restoration, the black single-model sets are the most straightforward choice. Owners with several Bose headphones in the house may prefer the broader compatibility lists, while anyone who spends long hours in their headphones may get more out of the memory foam option. If you want a visible style change, the black-and-blue set is the one to consider. Always confirm your exact model name before ordering, since fit is the single most important factor in how replacement pads perform.
