A sports helmet includes a liner comprised of impact resistant material and a
protective
shell encasing an outer surface of the liner. A female audio jack is secured within
a rear cavity of the liner and has an aperture extending without the liner for
receiving a male audio jack connected to a portable audio device. A pair of cavities
are formed on opposite sides of the liner in which are secured speakers. Wiring
extends from the female audio jack to the integral speakers. The speakers are positioned
and oriented such so as to provide audio to the helmet wearer without blocking
surrounding sound, and without affecting the safety aspects of the helmet.