Finding the right pair of running headphones can be a challenge, right? With so many options out there, it’s tough to know where to start. In this review, I’ll share my takeaways on the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 headphones and give you an overview of the rest of the Shokz lineup to help you make an informed decision.
I’m a big fan of bone-conduction headphones. My first pair was the OpenRun Pro, and I haven’t looked back since. So when the OpenRun Pro 2 showed up on my doorstep, I was stoked.
What are bone conducting headphones?
For anyone new to bone-conduction technology, here’s the quick rundown: these headphones transmit sound through vibrations to the bones in your skull, bypassing the eardrums. The vibrations then reach your inner ear, so you can enjoy music while keeping your ears open to the world around you—safety first, right?
If you’re new to this tech, there’s a short adjustment period, but once you’re used to it, it’s smooth sailing with your favorite jams.
OpenRun Pro 2 Review
Hands down, these are my favorite headphones and my current go-to for running!
The OpenRun Pro 2 is a total game-changer for runners. They offer a comfortable, secure fit that stays in place, no matter how intense your workouts get. They’re super lightweight, and I had no issues with them bouncing or shifting around during my runs.
Plus, they fit comfortably under hats (whether it’s a performance cap or a winter beanie) and slide easily under sunglasses (though if you’re particular about where your shades sit, you might need to adjust them slightly). Coach Amanda says she still can’t quite figure out the hat, sunglasses and OpenRun combo comfortably.
Sound quality is where the OpenRun Pro 2 really shines. The upgrade from the original OpenRun Pro is noticeable, with much clearer audio and richer bass.
The battery life is solid too, offering up to 12 hours of playtime, and if you’re in a rush, the quick charge feature is a lifesaver—just 5 minutes of charging gives you 1.5 hours of use.
That said, there are a few downsides to keep in mind.
If you’re running in a gym or other noisy environment, you might find it a bit harder to hear your audio clearly.
While the sound is excellent for music, it’s not as crisp for audiobooks or podcasts, so these headphones aren’t the best choice for spoken word content. Again this could be why Amanda hasn’t traditionally been as big of a fan as some of us. Even on the treadmill, she found with audiobooks it just never felt super clear.
Also, the buttons can be tricky to use during runs or when you have cold hands, making it a bit harder to adjust volume or skip tracks on the go.
All in all, these headphones are perfect for runners who want comfort, great battery life, and solid sound quality. Just keep in mind that if you’re running in noisy environments or prefer audiobooks, they might not be the best option.
OpenRun Pro vs. OpenRun Pro 2
The OpenRun Pro 2 takes everything great about the original version and improves it, especially in sound quality and fit. Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide which one is right for you.
Sound Quality:
The OpenRun Pro 2 offers significantly better sound, with richer bass and clearer audio. It also features a new speaker design that points directly at your ear, reducing sound leakage—so you can enjoy your music without bothering those around you.
Customizable Fit:
These headphones offer two headband sizes—Standard (5.3 to 7.5 inches) and Mini (4.7 to 6.9 inches)—both adjustable for a more personalized, comfortable fit. Whether you wear hats, sunglasses, or both, you can tweak the fit to suit your gear of the day.
Battery Life:
The OpenRun Pro 2 extends battery life to 12 hours, up from 10 hours in the original, so you get more running time between charges.
Charging Port:
The new headphones switch to a USB-C port from the previous magnetic connection. While USB-C is more universal, some might miss the convenience of the magnetic charger. (I’m definitely in the “miss it” camp.)
Bottom Line:
The OpenRun Pro 2 is the clear winner if you prioritize sound quality, battery life, and a customizable fit. That said, the OpenRun Pro is still a fantastic option at a slightly lower price, but the Pro 2’s upgrades make it the better choice for most runners.
Comparing Shokz Headphones
All right, now the question is which model of Shokz are right for you. If you’ve decided you love bone conducting because it helps you feel safe and they’re comfy then there are a few different styles!
OpenRun
The OpenRun headphones are perfect for runners who want great sound and are a little cheaper than the 2!
They share the same open-ear design as the Pro 2, and you can choose between Standard or Mini headband sizes for a more personalized fit.
With 8 hours of battery life and a quick 10-minute charge that gives you 1.5 hours of playtime, they’re ready to go whenever you are. Lightweight, sweatproof, and super secure, they stay in place through your toughest workouts—though keep them out of the pool, as they’re not designed for swimming.
Check them out here for $159 >>
OpenSwim Pro
Honestly, we think this is probably their coolest option. It’s a game changer for long swims!
The OpenSwim Pro headphones are a must-have if you spend time in the pool. They feature an open-ear design similar to the OpenRun Pro 2, but now with Bluetooth connectivity.
You can listen to music underwater for up to 2 hours, even at depths of 6.5 feet!
Not near your phone? No problem—just switch to MP3 mode and enjoy your tunes with 32GB of storage—no connection needed.
It easily transitions from water to land, so you can wear them during your swim and keep them on for a run afterward. With 9 hours of Bluetooth battery life or 6 hours in MP3 mode, plus a quick 10-minute charge that gives you 3 hours of playtime, these headphones will keep you moving in and out of the pool.
OpenFit
The OpenFit and OpenFit 2 headphones are super versatile, perfect for everything from morning runs to work calls.
The air-earhook design keeps them secure, while the dual-layered silicone earbud provides a comfy, adaptable fit. At just 8.3 grams, they’re incredibly lightweight, and with AI Noise Cancellation, your calls stay crystal clear. Enjoy 7 hours of battery on a single charge, and up to 28 hours with the charging case.
Our gear tester Gillian LOVED these and has used them on a ton of runs. Once again, Coach Amanda is the weirdo who found they just never stayed put and felt like the controls really needed some work.
For the same price point as the OpenRun Pro 2 we think it’s a much better option. Also just being able to drop them around your neck, vs worrying about losing an earbud is great.
OpenFit Air that you might also see, isn’t really designed for workouts and hence much cheaper.
All the details of the OpenFit here for $179 >>
And that’s your earful of info on the Shokz lineup! We hope this helps you find your next pair of headphones.
As always, we’d love to hear from you. Drop a comment below to share which pair you’re considering or if you’ve tried any of them. It all helps fellow runners find what’s best for them.
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