By Owen PalmerUpdated November 2026
Replacing ear cushions on Bose headphones is one of the simplest ways to restore comfort and seal, especially once the original foam flattens or the covering starts to peel. This guide compares five replacement ear pad sets sold on Amazon, sorted by how well they fit different needs. Our selection criteria were model compatibility, material and cushion construction, fit and seal, fabric or leatherette durability, and the patterns owners tend to mention in their feedback. We did not test these products ourselves; the comparison is based on manufacturer specifications, listing details, and common owner reports.
Our top picks at a glance
- 1
TOP CHOICEBest overallQC35 Ear Pads – Replacement Earpads Ear Cushions for Bose QuietComfortView on Amazon - 2
TOP CHOICEBest for QC35 II owners who want a direct fitEarpads for Bose Quiet Comfort QC 35 / QC35 ii / QC25 / QC15 HeadphoneView on Amazon - 3
TOP CHOICEBest for a simple black replacementfor QuietComfort35 and Quiet Comfort35 ii Headphones Earpads for Bose QC35 – BlackView on Amazon - 4
Best premium optionPremium Replacement Ear Pads for Bose QC35 and QC35ii Headphones Made by GEVOView on Amazon - 5
Best budget pickReplacement Ear Pads for Bose QuietComfort QC 35 (ii) 25 15 2 HeadphonesView on Amazon
Our Top Picks
Quick Comparison
| Product | Best for | Key feature |
|---|---|---|
| QC35 Ear Pads – Replacement Earpads for Bose QuietComfort 35 II and QC35 | Overall replacement with broad compatibility | Listed for QC35 II and QC35 models, black finish |
| Earpads for Bose Quiet Comfort QC 35 / QC35 ii / QC25 / QC15 | Owners of several older QuietComfort models | Covers multiple QuietComfort generations |
| Earpads for Bose QC35 and QC35 ii, Black | A plain, straightforward black swap | Simple black design matching the original look |
| Premium Replacement Ear Pads for Bose QC35 and QC35ii by GEVO | Buyers prioritizing cushion feel and durability | Memory foam cushioning with a tougher outer covering |
| Replacement Ear Pads for Bose QuietComfort QC 35 (ii) 25 15 2 | Budget-minded owners with older or multiple Bose models | Tear-resistant cushion covering, wide model list |
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)
Best for: Overall replacement with broad compatibility
This set suits owners of QuietComfort 35 and QC35 II headphones who want a replacement that matches the original size and layout without extra fuss.
Key specs
- Designed for Bose QuietComfort 35 II and QC35 over-ear headphones
- Black color
- Replacement ear cushions sold as a pair
Pros
- Clearly lists the QC35 II and QC35 models it targets
- Black finish matches the original look
- Straightforward install with no tools beyond removing the old pads
Cons
- Fit depends on matching the exact model, so confirm your version first
- Foam density is not specified in the listing
Bottom line: A safe first choice for QC35 or QC35 II owners who want a direct-fit replacement.
Earpads for Bose Quiet Comfort QC 35 / QC35 ii / QC25 / QC15 Headphone
Earpads for Bose Quiet Comfort QC 35 / QC35 ii / QC25 / QC15 Headphone
Best for: Owners of several older QuietComfort models
This option is aimed at people who own more than one Bose QuietComfort headset, since the listing covers several generations in a single set of pads.
Key specs
- Listed for QC35, QC35 II, QC25, and QC15 headphones
- Sold as replacement earpads
- Over-ear fit
Pros
- Broad model compatibility within the QuietComfort line
- Useful if you keep older headsets as spares
- Simple swap process for common QuietComfort designs
Cons
- Wide compatibility can mean small differences in fit between models
- Material details are limited in the listing
Bottom line: Good for owners who want one replacement that covers more than one Bose QuietComfort headset.
for QuietComfort35 and Quiet Comfort35 ii Headphones Earpads for Bose QC35 – Black
for (QuietComfort35 & Quiet Comfort35 ii) Headphones Earpads for Bose QC35 & QC35 ii – Black
Best for: A simple black replacement
This is a plain, no-frills option for owners who want the original black appearance restored without adding style changes.
Key specs
- Designed for QuietComfort35 and QC35 ii headphones
- Black color
- Over-ear replacement pads
Pros
- Restores the original black look
- Targets the two most common QC35 variants
- Easy to compare with your current pads
Cons
- Limited to QC35 variants, so older models are not covered
- Few details on cushion construction in the listing
Bottom line: A practical pick for QC35 owners who want a basic black swap.
Premium Replacement Ear Pads for Bose QC35 and 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 prioritizing cushion feel and durability
This set is positioned as a higher-end replacement, with a focus on comfort and long-term wear. It suits owners who use their headphones for long sessions.
Key specs
- Listed for QuietComfort 35, QC35 II, and SoundLink 1 and 2 over-ear models
- Memory foam cushioning, per the listing name
- Silver finish
Pros
- Memory foam is described as adaptive, which many owners prefer for seal and comfort
- Marketed as extra durable
- Covers the SoundLink 1 and 2 as well as QC35 models
Cons
- Silver finish will not match a black original
- Specific density and thickness are not stated in the listing
Bottom line: Worth considering if comfort and cushion longevity matter more than matching the original color.
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: Budget-minded owners with older or multiple Bose models
This is a practical option for owners who want low-cost replacements across several older Bose headsets, including AE-series models.
Key specs
- Listed for QC35 (ii), QC25, QC15, QC2, and AE2 series headphones
- Tear-resistant cover, per the listing name
- Black color
Pros
- Very wide model list for a single purchase
- Tear-resistant covering suits frequent handling
- Good fit for owners maintaining several headsets
Cons
- Broad compatibility means you must verify your exact model closely
- Cushion material and density are not detailed
Bottom line: A sensible choice when your priority is covering several Bose models without buying separate sets.
Buying Guide
Confirm Your Exact Headphone Model
Bose has released several headphone generations with similar-looking ear cushions that are not always interchangeable. Check the model name printed inside the headband or on the box before ordering. Many owners find that a pad set labeled for one generation fits closely enough, but the attachment tabs and cushion shape can differ slightly.
Good picks for this: QC35 Ear Pads for QC35 II and QC35; Earpads for Quiet Comfort QC 35 / QC35 ii / QC25 / QC15
Cushion Material and Construction
Ear cushions are usually built from foam wrapped in a protein leather or fabric covering. Memory foam tends to conform to the head and can improve passive seal, while firmer foam holds its shape longer under repeated use. Look for a listing that names the foam type and cover material, and be cautious when those details are missing.
Good picks for this: Premium Replacement Ear Pads by GEVO; Replacement Ear Pads for Bose QuietComfort QC 35 (ii) 25 15 2
Fit and Seal
Ear pads affect how well the headphones block outside noise and how much pressure you feel on the head. A pad that sits too far from the ear can reduce noise isolation and bass response. Compare the inside diameter of your original pads with the listing’s description where available, and check whether the new pads sit flush against the earcup.
Good picks for this: QC35 Ear Pads for QC35 II and QC35; Earpads for Bose QC35 – Black
Color and Finish
Most replacement sets come in black, but silver and other finishes are available. Color only affects appearance, though a mismatch can be noticeable on a black headset. If you care about a seamless look, choose a finish that matches your current headphones.
Good picks for this: Earpads for Bose QC35 and QC35 ii – Black; Premium Replacement Ear Pads by GEVO (silver)
Durability and Wear
Ear pads wear out from skin oils, friction, and repeated compression. Tear-resistant coverings and denser foam generally hold up longer. Owners who travel with their headphones often report that covering damage from folding or storage shows up before foam breakdown.
Good picks for this: Premium Replacement Ear Pads by GEVO; Replacement Ear Pads for Bose QuietComfort QC 35 (ii) 25 15 2
Compatibility With Other Models
Some listings cover multiple Bose and SoundLink models. Wider compatibility is convenient, but it also means you need to confirm your specific version. If you own more than one headset, a broader listing may save money in the long run, but read the model list carefully.
Good picks for this: Earpads for Bose Quiet Comfort QC 35 / QC35 ii / QC25 / QC15; QC35 Ear Pads for QC35 II and QC35
Installation Ease
Most Bose over-ear pads attach with a friction or clip mechanism and can be swapped without tools. Work slowly to avoid bending the earcup frame. If you are unsure of the process, the related guide on replacing earpads step by step is a good reference before you begin.
Good picks for this: QC35 Ear Pads for QC35 II and QC35; for QuietComfort35 and QC35 ii Earpads – Black
FAQ
Can I use one set of ear cushions on different Bose headphones?
Sometimes, but not always. Bose uses similar pad designs across some QuietComfort generations, yet attachment and cushion dimensions can vary. Confirm the model compatibility list in each listing before buying.
How do I know when my ear cushions need replacing?
Common signs include flattened or cracked foam, peeling covering, a loose fit, or a noticeable drop in noise isolation. Owners often report that replacing pads restores the original comfort without changing the headphones themselves.
Are memory foam ear pads better than standard foam?
Memory foam can conform more closely to the head, which may improve seal and comfort for some people. Standard foam can feel firmer and may last differently. Personal preference and head shape both matter.
Do I need tools to replace Bose ear cushions?
Usually not. Most over-ear pads detach by pulling them away from the earcup and snap or slide the new set into place. Avoid forcing the connection, and go slowly around the edges.
Will new ear pads change the sound?
They can. A better seal often improves bass and passive noise isolation, while a poor fit can reduce both. Sound changes are usually modest, but fit is the main factor.
Should I buy black or a different color?
Black matches most Bose QuietComfort headsets. A different color is a matter of style, and function is generally the same. Choose based on how much you care about visual consistency.
Conclusion
Replacing ear cushions on Bose headphones is usually a straightforward job that can restore comfort and seal. For most owners of QC35 or QC35 II headsets, a direct-fit set like the QC35 Ear Pads listing is a safe starting point. Buyers who prioritize cushion feel and long-term durability may prefer the GEVO memory foam option, while those maintaining several older models can consider the broader compatibility sets. Always confirm your exact model before ordering, since fit is the most important factor.
Sources
- Consumer product safety guidance on wearable audio devices and general product care (cpsc.gov)
- Workplace noise exposure information that helps explain why hearing protection and fit matter (osha.gov)
- Background research on hearing health and the effects of prolonged loud listening (nih.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)
- 7 Best Bose Sport In Ear Headphones for Workouts (2026)
- 6 Best Replace Ear Pads Bose Headphones for Comfort (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.
