The Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 are the company’s latest flagship bone-conduction headphones built for athletes and outdoor use, which debuted in Canada last year.
Instead of going in or over your ears like traditional headphones, they use vibrations on your cheekbones to deliver sound. This keeps your ears open, so you can still hear traffic, people, or any sounds around you. While Apple’s AirPods have a Transparency Mode, it’s not as effective as having bone-conduction headphones. You can just hear your environment so much better.
Sound quality is stronger than previous Shokz models thanks to a mix of bone conduction and air conduction drivers, giving you clearer audio and more bass. They also come with six built-in EQ modes and the option to save two custom sound profiles. Battery life runs up to 12 hours per charge, and a quick-charge feature gives you two and a half hours of playback in just five minutes.
For workouts, they’re built with a lightweight frame and flexible memory wire that stays put, even during long runs or rides. One problem I had with my AirPods Pros were they always fell out of my ears during runs and the same would go for regular AirPods. The OpenRun Pro 2 go around the back of your neck and they hook onto your ears. These aren’t going anywhere.
We tested on faster 5km runs and tempo 10km runs, these stayed put. It’s nice not having earphones in your ears while you’re sweating profusely.
The dual microphones are claimed to cut background noise and wind by up to 96 percent, so phone calls stay clear. We did a quick test call while cycling and we didn’t hear any complaints about from our buddy on the line. They’re IP55 rated, making them sweat and splash resistant, and they finally charge with USB-C instead of the older proprietary connector.
Compared to AirPods Pro, the OpenRun Pro 2 are better suited for fitness and safety. You don’t have the ear fatigue that comes from having earbuds in for hours (or ear infections), and you can stay aware of your surroundings while running or cycling (which is incredibly important when cars are always around you in the city).
They also outlast AirPods Pro on battery life, offering 12 hours versus six. The AirPods Pro still win on active noise cancellation and Apple ecosystem features, but if your priority is outdoor workouts, awareness, and all-day comfort, the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 make a stronger case.
Even when not working out, having the OpenRun Pro 2 around my ears are handy to listen to my favourite podcasts while hearing the world around me, plus it’s also incredibly comfortable not having to jab earphones into your ears. If you have a smaller head, there’s a Mini size available as well, so get measuring.
The OpenRun Pro 2 are on sale right now for 20% off at $199.96 on Amazon.ca, saving you $50 off, on both standard and mini sizes.
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I have worn these sking and they fit under the helmet. Less chance of dropping white AirPods on the snow and can't find them when taking off the helmet!!