Noise-canceling headphones are a must for anyone who travels on airplanes frequently, as engine noise can force you to turn up normal headphones to dangerous levels. The problem with most models is that they tend to be bulky or uncomfortable, since they try to provide a decent seal against ambient noise. Bose, with its new QuietComfort 3 noise-canceling phones, is looking to change that — without compromising on performance. Featuring much smaller ear cups than the previous-generation QuietComfort 2 had, the QuietComfort 3's cups utilize a "smartfoam," the same type of material found in those Swedish mattresses, to mold to the ear tightly and comfortably. The result is, without hyperbole, the most comfortable headphone we've ever worn. The foam is very light and soft, yet still creates a solid seal over the ear to prevent outside noise from getting in. Combined with the headphones' noice-canceling tech — which constantly analyzes ambient sound and emits frequencies to reduce it — the result is a solid noise-canceling headphone set that removes low-end frequencies, like the rumble from jet engines, while remaining remarkably comfortable. Of course, such comfort doesn't come cheap, with the QuietComfort 3's going for $350, more than twice as much as other noise cancellers. It might be worth it if you're on a cross-country flight every other week, otherwise that may be too steep for most people. They'll be available direct from Bose starting at the end of next week. — Adam Frucci