I actually really liked the previous-generation Apple earphones -- decent sound-quality, while also letting in lots of outside noise, which makes them safe-ish when used on the street. The latest generation sadly (and ironically) doesn't fit in my ear.
So far, when I see someone trashing Apple headphones, they go on to recommend something which forms a tight-seal in the ear -- without a doubt better sounding, but really a different category of product.
IEMs (in-ear monitors, the earbuds which form a seal in the ear) are actually safer to use. The admission of background noise encourages users to turn up the volume, risking damage to their hearing, especially in loud environments where one is bound to use earphones (like subway trains).
Me, I take one earbud out when I am in an area that requires auditory attention to my surroundings.
So far, when I see someone trashing Apple headphones, they go on to recommend something which forms a tight-seal in the ear -- without a doubt better sounding, but really a different category of product.