Hard Shell Headphone Case: What Fits and How to Pack It
By Skullcandy | Headphones, Earbuds, Gaming, and Speakers | Published: 2026-10-16
Category: Buying Guides
A practical fit and packing guide for the Skullcandy hard shell headphone case, including how to protect over-ear headphones like the Crusher ANC 2 in a backpack.
Quick answer
Buy the Skullcandy Hard Shell Headphone Case if you carry full-size, over-ear headphones like the Crusher ANC 2 or Crusher 720 in a backpack or travel bag. It protects the headband and ear cups from crushing and scratches, but it is not designed for earbuds or for folding headphones that need a smaller pouch. Pack the headphones flat, cable in the accessory space, and avoid overstuffing.
What actually fits inside the hard shell case
The Hard Shell Headphone Case is built for over-ear headphones, not earbuds. If you own a Crusher ANC 2 or Crusher 720, the case gives you a rigid shell that keeps the headband from bending and the ear cups from pressing against other items. Earbuds like the Push ANC Active are far smaller and come with their own charging case, so a full-size hard shell would waste space in your bag. The case does not list internal dimensions, so the safest approach is to check that your headphones fold or lay flat before ordering. If your headphones do not fold, measure the longest side of the folded or flat position and compare it to the case's exterior footprint before you buy.
How to pack headphones so the case does the work
Start by folding the headphones if the model allows it. The Crusher 720 and Crusher ANC 2 both have adjustable headbands, so collapse the sliders to their shortest setting before placing them in the case. Turn the ear cups flat against the headband rather than leaving them at a right angle. If your headphones have a detachable cable, remove it and coil it loosely in the accessory area or a separate pocket. Never force the zipper closed. A hard shell protects against impact, but pressure on the zipper can warp the shell over time. For daily backpack use, place the case against the back panel of your bag rather than at the bottom, where it takes the most drops.
When a hard shell is the wrong choice
A hard shell case adds bulk. If you commute with a small sling bag or carry earbuds only, a soft pouch or the earbuds' own charging case is a better fit. The Hard Shell Headphone Case is also not a waterproof dry box. It protects against crushing, dust, and light splashes, but it is not rated for submersion or heavy rain. If you need full waterproof protection for workouts, look at the Push ANC Active, which has fully waterproof construction and does not need a separate hard case for gym use. For air travel, the hard shell is a reasonable choice because it resists pressure from other luggage, but it will take up more room than a folding soft case.
Decision rules for buying a headphone case
- If you carry over-ear headphones daily: Choose the Hard Shell Headphone Case when your Crusher ANC 2 or Crusher 720 travels in a backpack, gym bag, or carry-on. Rigid protection is worth the extra bulk for full-size headphones.
- If you only use earbuds: Skip the hard shell and rely on the charging case that comes with earbuds like the Push ANC Active. A large case for small earbuds wastes space and adds weight.
- If you need waterproof protection: The Hard Shell Headphone Case is not rated as waterproof, so choose water-resistant earbuds for rain or sweaty workouts. Match the case to the environment, not just the headphone size.
- If your headphones do not fold: Measure the flat footprint before ordering, because the case does not list internal dimensions. When in doubt, size up rather than forcing a zipper.
Product facts
- Hard Shell Headphone Case: Hard Shell Headphone Case delivers travel-ready protection that's sleek, sturdy, and ready to roll. A rigid shell is the main reason to choose this case over a soft pouch: it resists crushing in a backpack or suitcase.
- Crusher® ANC 2: Crusher ANC 2 features adjustable sensory bass and customizable noise cancellation. These are full-size over-ear headphones, so they are the type of headphone this hard case is designed to hold.
- Crusher® 720: Crusher 720 has a redesigned Crusher wheel for more precise bass control. The wheel and ear cup controls are exposed parts, so a hard shell helps prevent accidental damage during transport.
Who should buy the hard shell case
Best for
- Owners of full-size over-ear headphones like the Crusher ANC 2 or Crusher 720
- Commuters and travelers who pack headphones in a backpack or suitcase
- Anyone who wants to prevent headband bending and ear cup scratches
Not for
- Earbud users who already have a charging case, such as Push ANC Active owners
- Minimalist carry where every inch of bag space matters
- Water sports or heavy rain exposure without an additional dry bag
