Frequent skips

I've had the airpods for a week now and have noticed pretty frequent skips while listening to music but only when I am at work or at the gym. When I am using them at home the connection is pretty flawless with some occasional skips during music here and there.

I guess my question is if location could play a factor in poor connection with the airpods or if my pair could be defective? I have an AT&T iPhone 7+ paired with the airpods. Thanks!