Customers value the OpenRun Pro 2 Bone Conduction Sports Headphones for their exceptional sound quality, comfortable fit, and long battery life. They appreciate the bone conduction technology that allows them to hear their surroundings while listening to music or taking calls. Additionally, the open-ear design is praised for providing a comfortable and secure fit, even during intense workouts.
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Pros mentioned:
Battery life, Bone conduction, Sound quality
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
Best head set I’ve ever purchased
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Posted . Owned for 1 week when reviewed.
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
I had neck surgery having to wear a brace made it hard to hold phone up to ear these headsets are great they don’t go into the ear it stays on the outside making it easier to talk and hear what’s going on around you hands free. Pairing was so easy the sound is clear people on the other end can hear you clear as well . Charge life is great . I recommend these over any of the other ear devices I’ve had
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
I love from my openrun pro 2 that they are very confortable to wear and does not move while rollerblading or using at the gym. The sound quality is ok, does not compare with on the ear headphones but it is nice to be able to hear to the environment. I feel it is safer than normal over the ear headphones.
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
I really like these. They are amazing i can listen to my teacher while also listening to music. It helps me not fall asleep in class actually. But definitely get these over the old model. There is something weird about the olders ones that will vibrate on ur ear cuz of the base. Very uncomfortable for me but maybe im just spoiled cuz of the pros.
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
Great sound and you literally do not notice it on your head. My husband and I both bought the Shokz. I purchased the mini as I have a smaller head. Highly recommend this product!
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
I have had Tinitus for the last 25 years, and unfortunately these last 6 years the “white noise” sound has gotten worse, especially in my left ear. Even if I love to use headphones when I am walking, hiking or riding my bike, my tinnitus has turned me paranoid and afraid to use them either over or in the ear. I have the sensation that over time, the use of the headphones will worsen my condition. I heard about this Shokz bone conduction headphone design, and some research indicates that when it’s used at moderate volumes, they are less likely to contribute to worsen tinnitus, comparing to the regular in or over the ear headphones. Other advantages are that with the open ear design you are able to maintain situational awareness, listen to music as you ride your bike, doing exercise outside, commuting or even while working in the office, you can have hands-free calls with the built in mics. The concept was very attractive. However, I was concerned about the quality sound and that this unit could be too noticeable. Since the vibrations travels through the bone, the skin may cause loss of quality sound specially at pitch sound or higher frequencies, the size, weight was also another concerning factor.
So, after trying the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 I have to say it left me speechless. This model is 10th Gen Bone Conductivity Technology, which results in an amazing sound quality. I was able to notice many tiny details in my songs while I was listening without the need to increase the volume. Bass and treble frequencies were crystal clear, balanced and powerful. High notes were well appreciated even if pitch sound has to go through the skin to get to the bone. Great phone conversations, mic clarity (dual mic) and stable BT connectivity (v 5.3). The DualPitch Technology with the 3D Audio obviously makes a big difference.
Setup process is super easy, comes with a concise and precise user guide that will take you only a couple minutes to pair the BT with your phone and have it ready to use right away, for either playing music or taking phone calls. On the right side you have the Power/Vol+ and Vol- Buttons, and the left side the Multifunction Button, where you can Play/Pause Music, Answer/End calls, or next/previous songs, by pressing the button either once, double or triple clicks. Mine came with enough battery power so didn’t need to wait for the charge Batt process to start use it. I have been using it for more than 6 hours so far and it is still working. Specs states that the Batt will last 12 hours, with 1 hour Battery charge time.
The usb port is a USB-C, and it comes with a USB-A to USB-C cable for charging and a very nice carrying Case.
IP55 water-resistant, Titanium Frame with Silicone-Plastic cover, light weight (0.07pounds or 31 gram), makes it really comfortable to use and good looking too.
You also have the option to install the Shokz app. The app will give you additional settings like a setting profile, for Standar, Vocal, Bass Boost, Treble Boost, or customize your own sounding profile setting preference. I would say the default options worked really well for me, however the app also gives you the option to perform on the shokz headphone the latest firmware update, which is always a good thing to do, and took me a couple of minutes.
I love the fact that this bone conduction design leaves the ear canals open, so the ears are able to hear the natural ambient sound around you, that will help the tinnitus worsen condition, other than having close the ear canals with the regular headphones. So basically I am able to use them all the time, at any place or situation. Another thing that is worth to mention, is that you can share them, without worrying about ear infection contagion.
This headphone feels comfortable while wearing it and it has a very discrete look. I was able to forget my constant “white noise” companion while playing music because of the clarity and great sound quality. I feel that this technology and design is good for my needs and that finally I have found the right headphones for me.
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
I was initially skeptical about the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 bone conduction headphones. Having never experienced anything like them, I wasn’t convinced that their unique shape and bone conduction technology would deliver a satisfying audio experience. However, from the moment I put them on, I realized Shokz was onto something truly remarkable.
The fit of these headphones is incredibly comfortable. As soon as I wrapped them around my head and positioned them over my ears, I decided to put them to the test by shaking my head vigorously. They stayed securely in place without any movement—these things weren’t going anywhere. Pairing them with my phone was a breeze, taking only seconds, and I was ready to dive into the sound experience.
When I say I was blown away, I’m not exaggerating. The sound quality is unlike anything I’ve experienced before. While these aren’t designed to be audiophile-grade headphones, they excel in their intended purpose—running, biking, and exercising. The open-ear feature not only enhances safety and comfort but also makes it feel like you have your own personal soundtrack playing as you move about. Since taking them out of the case, I haven’t taken them off.
The OpenRun Pro 2 boasts upgraded bass compared to the original model, and it certainly doesn’t disappoint. They’re equipped with IP55 water resistance, offering 12 hours of battery life and quick charging. The inclusion of AI noise-canceling and wind-resistant microphones ensures clear calls and minimal disruption from environmental noise. Charging via a USB-C in a waterproof port is both convenient and practical.
I wholeheartedly recommend these headphones to anyone who enjoys running, biking, exercising, or simply wants to listen to music while maintaining situational awareness. The open-ear design is a standout feature, providing a far better experience than the awareness modes in other headphones, which often produce distracting, tinny sounds. The Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 excels in situational awareness without sacrificing sound quality.
As a bonus, I found that wearing these headphones while sleeping was surprisingly pleasant. Unlike earbuds that can dig into your ears and cause discomfort over time, these headphones are the perfect solution for someone like me, with small ear canals. They’ve quickly become a staple in my daily routine, and I’m absolutely in love with them!
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
Bone conduction is the newest wave in bluetooth headphones and I have to say, that i like the concept of being able to hear your music, streaming show or even the person on the ther end of the line as you talk and multi-task. All while not having to worry about something being stuck inside my earlobes. And I'm one of those people who has to have both earbuds in when I'm using my gear, so I really prefer to have some sort of ambient noise sond mode but also like to be able to close the world off when it is warranted. Boe connduction allows me to do one of these things very well, and that is the ability to have both ears involved in my sound while also allowing me to hear the world around me by having the transmitters on my face rather than in my ears. These are the 2nd pair of Shokz and I really liked the Opencomm UC headphones for the ability to use my PC and my phone with the same bluetooth.Those have a boom mic attached and it gives off that tele-com look and feel even when I'm not in front of my PC. However, they are not gym ready. That's where the Openrun Pro 2 come into play. These do not have that boom mic but offer great sound for the people on the other end, from what I have been told. They've always been comfortable to wear, and yes. I can and have worn them all day. These are water resistant. With an IP55 rating and these also have a very nice battery life( 12 hours of listening) should ge t you through your work day and workout or at least, it works for me.) The charger is now a Type C port, rather than the 2 prong magnetic piece from before. The case is always a cool touch and they look good. These things are rubbery and flimsy, yet tough. You can wear them on your head or neckfor extended periods, but why, when you've got a tough case to stow them in when on in use. The controls are easy to use as there's an all-in-one button for answering/hanging up, play/pause & forward and previous track. It just just takes a few button presses. The volume buttons shares the duties with the power and pairing button( one in the same.) The sound quality is exceptional for something that doesn't enter your lobes. I do wish there was a bit more BASS, but of course that would require some enclosure of the ears. But this does work well with my workouts, mostly cardio. There is some mild discomfort when lifting weights on the bench, though. In the end, I do love them, but these won't replace my earbuds or over the ear headphones in a few scenarios, but they are a welcomed addition to my sound corps. There's a Shokz app that helps with changing the sound for Bass, Treble, Voice etc. So I would suggest installing it, if only to be able to check your battery life staus. All in all, I would recommend these, because they work and they're well built. But, they do need work because i want to be the only one hearing my music. if they're bone conduction, I should be the only one hearing the sound. I would think.
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
My experience with Shokz goes like this. In 2019 my wife got us each a pair of Shokz “AfterShokz” for Christmas and we loved them. This past Christmas Best Buy had the Shokz OpenRun Pro on sale and we upgraded. I literally wore the paint off of my pair of AfterShokz during that time. Well, kind of. The select button stopped working on mine sometime while they were still under warranty (2021) and Shokz sent me a new pair which has worked without fail. My wife wears hers from the time she gets up until she goes to bed. I do not. But I do wear them around my neck at work and on my head only when in use.
I’m not going to requote specs that are already listed in the product overview above. I’m going to concentrate on performance and how they compare to the Open Run Pros.
For anyone not familiar with how bone conduction works, the headphones sit in front of your ears and transmit the sound through your bones under them. Shokz says it a bit better and more technically: “Bone conduction technology converts sound into mechanical vibrations transmitted through the skin and temporal bone to the cochlea, bypassing traditional air conduction transmitters like the external auditory canal or eardrum.” What it means is that you can hear ambient sound around you and what’s coming through the headphones as if you weren’t wearing any headphones. I love them for phone calls and when listening to music. The OpenRun Pro 2 perform far better than the OpenRun Pro for listening to music. They are getting into the range of HiFi headphones. I was impressed!
Where the Shokz headphones excel, is with their open ear design in quiet to moderately noisy environments. However, these are not what you want to wear when mowing your lawn with a gas-powered lawn mower or when in an environment that has a similar level of noise. You will want something that’s noise cancelling that cover your ears or seal up in the ear canal for high noise levels. That last sentence also applies to true high-fidelity sound. While the Open Run Pro 2 are Shokz’ best so far for high fidelity sound, they cannot compete with high end headphones or ear buds designed for HiFi sound. Shokz are primarily bone conduction headphones are not designed to do that. As ambient sounds get louder, the bass response will seem to get weaker, but the mids and highs will still come through pretty good. But when the ambient sound gets even louder, it will reach a point to where you will need to increase the volume to hear the mids and highs. But when listening to music in a quiet environment, they do an excellent job. Especially when compared to the OpenRun Pro they are the successor to. The larger rear firing drivers make a Big difference in bass response and the dual driver design improves the highs dramatically too.
Going a little deeper on sound quality. Shokz says: “OpenRun Pro 2 redefines open-ear audio with DualPitch™ technology, blending bone conduction for clear mids and highs with air conduction for deep bass.” Yes, the bass response is much better than the previous OpenRun Pro and the highs are way better too. The drivers are firing backwards into your ear. This works conjunction with the bone conduction tech to give enhanced frequency response. Downloading and using the Shokz app lets you select EQ presets or create a couple of your own via a five band graphic EQ. Note: there are only 2 EQ presets available on the OpenRun Pro. Since they are open ear, they have a certain amount of sound leakage. Especially with the rear firing drivers. Shokz claims it’s “leak-free”, but it isn’t totally leak free. In fact, I think they have slightly more sound leakage than the previous model. My AfterShokz have even less leakage, but they don’t have rear firing drivers either. But don’t let this scare you. Someone will have to be pretty close, say under a foot from your head, in a quiet environment to eavesdrop on a conversation with success, and with the volume set at a moderate level.
The OpenRun Pro 2 has dual mics with AI noise reduction and wind resistance. My take, once you get past the over-worded sales pitch. Performance wise, it does make the background pretty quiet for the person you’re talking to on a call. My wife noticed a difference between the OpenRun Pro and OpenRun Pro 2 when I was talking to her coming home from work. She said it sounded kind of boxy at times. When talking to her while I was at work in different environments, she didn’t notice it sounding odd. Just very quiet between talking and not talking. They look so much like the previous model I have, nobody at work noticed the difference and I didn’t tell them. 😉
Battery life is very good. Up to 12 hours when listening to music, talk time is stated at 6 hours, but I’d say maybe 8 hours tops. Charge time options are 1 hour for a full charge, or 5 minutes to get 2.5 hours of use. I assume that’s from when it tells you to charge it.
One thing I was glad to see was a USB-C connector to charge it. The OpenRun Pro has a proprietary magnetic charging attachment to charge it them. Cool? Yes, but not practical if you need to take them with you or they run down and you don’t have it with you. USB-C solves that problem. It has a rubber cover that you need to peel back to insert a USB-C connector. If your fingernails aren’t long enough to peel it back, use the USB-C connector to. 😉
All of the Shokz headphones I have used have fit very well and been comfortable to wear for long periods. Remember what I said about my wife? 😉 An IP55 water-resistant design to resist rain, splashes and sweat. The only thing that is a problem with fit is inherent by design. You can’t lay your head down on a pillow in bed with these on. The band will push them too far forward to work. The Mini version on the “right” sized head might make this a non-issue.
Other things to note is 33 feet BT range, I think it got that and then some, a 2 year warranty. Comes with a nice case and short USB-A to USB-C cable, warranty card and setup guide. BT was easy to pair with my Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra and iPhone 12, work phone. The app works the same on both phones too. And when you get the app, check for firmware updates. There was one there, even for this new of a product. Start-up time is faster than OpenRun Pro too.
Conclusion: I used the OpenRun Pro 2 in many environments: In a vehicle, at work, outside, on my E-Bike, running and at home. They performed much better than my OpenRun Pros sound wise. Especially when listening to music. As I stated earlier, these are not my first Shokz products. They are very well made and, in my experience, Very Durable. Very Highly Recommended. My wife is waiting to see what colors they come in!
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
The design language has not changed much, and that’s a good thing. The case is quite robust and protective, but not very portable. That aside, the headphones are super light and can be hung around the neck, but best left on as they are quite comfortable. They are great for glasses and hat wearers. In a full day’s work, I did not have the need to take them off. They are well suited for running and even dynamic movement. The headphones are rated IP55 and the charging port has a waterproof flap so sweat, dust, or rain won’t be a problem.
I do not know what Bluetooth this headset has, but it paired quickly with my phone and laptop. I had no hiccups or disconnects so far. I appreciate the tactile buttons, which are intuitive, responsive, and allow for full control.
The call quality is good. While they work very well in semi-quiet environments, people heard some of the background digital noise while in traffic and in a crowded area. The interesting thing is that it sounds as if I am talking to the other party in person, which is a cool effect. The battery life is decent as I was able to get well over 8 hours of constant use.
But how’s the sound considering the open, bone-inductor design? I am happy to report that the sound is very clear and precise. Sure, the bass is still subdued and subtle, but definitely noticeable and precise. The midrange is pushed slightly forward to add a bit more warmth, which is great when listening to Jazz, orchestra, and live audio. The treble can get slightly harsh at higher volumes, especially in piano, violin, and guitar solos, but it never got to a point where I felt fatigued. They are excellently suited for podcasts, audiobooks, and such. Being open, the imaging and soundstage are quite spacious -as if the sound is “out there”. I found the overall sound signature to be quite natural.
One thing that surprised me was that the typical vibration that can cause tickling or even severe discomfort was nowhere to be found when listening at high volumes, and that is an amazing improvement. The only nitpick is that everyone can hear what you’re playing at high volumes in quiet environments.
In the end, I am very pleased with the new OpenRun Pro 2. They’re super comfortable, have a decent battery, intuitive controls, and surprising sound.
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
I have the OpenRun Pro and now the OpenRun Pro 2. Love both. The bass is deeper in the Pro 2 and the power plug uses a USB-C. These are great because they do not impede the surrounding sounds allowing me to carry on conversations and be aware of what is happening around me. They are very comfortable and in a lot of cases, I forget I have them on. I wear them while on phone calls and Teams/Zoom meetings. I like them so much, I have purchased multiple pairs for gifts.
I would recommend this to a friend
Pros mentioned:
Comfort
Cons mentioned:
Bass
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
My new favorite headphones
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This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
I use wireless headphones daily and while I have no problems with in ear headphones, having a set like this makes me wish I tried them sooner. Though there are some trade offs with this design, there’s more positives than negatives. The headphones come with a USB-A to C charging cable (no power brick) and a nice travel case. Setting them up is like any Bluetooth device and you can do it without the app, but using the app gives extra controls. With the app it gives you the ability for multi device support, sound profiles as well as being able to update the firmware.
While using these you immediately see the benefits of this design, they stay in place and you’re not constantly adjusting them. I have multiple types of in ear headphones by multiple manufacturers and they all have to be adjusted (some more than others) no matter what I’m doing. And while this is a huge advantage over in ear headphones, that same advantage in design, has some drawbacks in sound. With the fact these sit on the outside of the ear, you don’t get that same depth of music with in ear headphones, especially with bass. They still sound really good though and are worth that trade off for the other benefits. This design gives you better situational awareness also. While using these on a one hour walk, I started with 90 percent battery life and had the same when done.
Though these are geared towards runners, if you’re not a runner, don’t let that keep you away. You truly get a set of headphones that you’re not constantly having to adjust and are extremely comfortable. Another plus is the health benefits of this design as you don’t have something in your ear that could cause an ear infection. The Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 offer great sound and a design that benefits anyone that wants headphones that you don’t have to constantly adjust and are extremely comfortable to wear for long periods of time.
Posted . Owned for less than 1 week when reviewed.
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
I was looking for some open ears i could use for work in a environment where I needed to hear my surroundings but also be able to listen to music, these surpassed my expectations. The audio quality was much better than what I assumed and the fit VERY comfortably around my ear plus the 12hr battery life is great as well. All in all happy with my purchase and might buy the openfit 2 when they come out!!!
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
First time having bone headphones. Pretty Awesome.
I mainly use these for exercising and riding the bike.
Pros: The headphones sit well on the head. Don't have any real irritating feeling when wearing them long term.
The sound is just fine. When wearing headphones to work out or ride I'm not looking for crisp sound. However, the sound quality that you get from these is really good. Dont sound that distorted as other reviews state.
When riding the bike you do hear the wind in the ear which does cause the music not to be heard or as clear. But that is to be expected, not to mention when riding you want to be aware of your surroundings. Which is PERFECT for these headphones. They keep me in the grove while helping me stay aware of what's going on.
If you are looking for noise-canceling headphones then these are not for you. The battery on these puppies last! The first day after a full charge lasted me 7hrs before I turned them off. Now that's awesome especially when you go on those 100-mile rides!
Cons: when talking on the phone, it can get a bit difficult for other people to hear you if you have a lot of noise going around, and vis for versa for you hearing them. But if you are in a quiet office space, then I don't see any issues using these for calls.
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 Review: A Runner's Take on Next-Gen Open-Ear Audio
As a dedicated runner who logs miles almost every day, finding the perfect pair of headphones is essential for keeping the motivation high and the workout engaging. Recently, I got my hands on the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2, and I have to say, these headphones have redefined my audio experience during runs. Here’s why:
Groundbreaking Audio with DualPitch™ Technology
The Shokz OpenRun Pro 2's DualPitch™ technology is a game-changer. I was skeptical about bone conduction technology before, but the blend of bone conduction for the mids and highs with air conduction for the bass has delivered a sound quality that's surprisingly rich and immersive. The 3D audio effect created by their custom algorithm is impressive, making it feel like every sound is placed precisely in space. This depth in audio is a major upgrade from what I’ve experienced with other open-ear models.
Open-Ear Comfort with Unshakeable Fit
Comfort and fit are crucial for any runner, and the OpenRun Pro 2 excels here. The ergonomic design with its weight-optimized frame feels lightweight and secure, even during intense sprints or long runs. The Ni-Ti alloy memory wire ensures a snug fit that doesn’t shift or pinch, which is a significant improvement over many competitors that tend to slip or require constant adjustment. The “Cloud-Comfort Fit” is not just marketing hype; it genuinely feels like these headphones are barely there.
Leak-Free Audio & Enhanced Privacy
One of my main concerns with open-ear headphones has always been sound leakage, but Shokz has tackled this issue well. The integrated design and DirectPitch™ technology significantly reduce sound leakage, so I can enjoy my tunes without disturbing those around me, and I’m not constantly worried about the quality of my sound escaping into the ether.
IP55 Water Resistance and Durability
Weather is always a wildcard for outdoor runners, so the IP55 water resistance is a huge plus. Whether it’s sweat pouring down during a summer run or an unexpected drizzle, these headphones have handled it all without missing a beat. The robust design, including the double-layer mesh and nano-hydrophobic coating, assures durability against the elements. I can say that the Open Run Pro original used to get drenched in sweat and the audio would sound like a broken speaker but I haven't had that with the 2's.
Clear Communication with AI Noise Reduction
Although I’m primarily focused on music or podcasts while running, the AI noise reduction for calls is a fantastic feature. The dual microphones with wind resistance work effectively, even when running at higher speeds. This makes answering calls or using voice commands during workouts surprisingly smooth.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life is always a key consideration. The OpenRun Pro 2’s 12-hour playback time easily covers most long runs and then some. The Quick Charge feature is particularly handy—a 5-minute charge giving 2.5 hours of playtime means I’m never left scrambling for a charge before a run. The USB-C charging is a nice touch for convenience and durability.
Shokz App Integration
The Shokz app adds another layer of customization that I appreciate. The ability to switch between two devices seamlessly with MultiPoint Pairing and the EQ presets for different audio preferences are features that enhance the overall experience.
Final Thoughts
The Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 has impressed me with its innovative features, comfort, and durability. For a runner, the blend of cutting-edge audio technology and thoughtful design makes these headphones stand out. They’re a solid choice for anyone looking to enhance their running routine with high-quality sound while staying aware of their surroundings. If you’re in the market for open-ear headphones that deliver both in performance and comfort, the OpenRun Pro 2 is definitely worth considering.
Posted . Owned for less than 1 week when reviewed.
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
I tried these on at a running store and was blown away with how good they sounded for being an open ear headphone. I have tried many open ear models over the years and none have been very good, especilly with bass. The last time I tried Shokz was 2018 and they were horrifically bad. But the Open Run 2 model is straight up incredible. The sound is clear and crisp with great bass. They are also super loud. Half volume or less on my Garmin Fenix 7 is plenty. The comfort is also very good. Even with a hat and glasses on, they feel great and stay in the right position. I couldnt be more pleased from a sound and comfort perspective. From a safety perspective, these are not as safe as other open ear headphones. Since most (if not all) of the sound is coming from the external speaker instead of bone conduction, it makes it substantially harder to hear external noise at the same volume. The volume has to be turned way down for them to be legitimately safe vs in-ear headphones. Safety concerns aside, these are a fantastic pair of excercise headphones, especilly for running. These are a substantial upgrade for me from the Bose Quiet Comfort.
I would recommend this to a friend
Rated 4 out of 5 stars
Perfect for Active Lifestyles: Sleek & Functional!
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Posted . Owned for less than 1 week when reviewed.
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
Pros:
Comfortable Fit: The open-ear design is a game-changer. They’re lightweight and sit comfortably without any pressure on my ears, even during long runs.
Safety First: Keeping my ears open while still enjoying music means I’m more aware of my surroundings—perfect for outdoor activities like running or cycling.
Sound Quality: The bass is surprisingly robust for bone conduction, offering clear and balanced audio without compromising awareness.
Battery Life: With up to 10 hours of playtime, I only need to charge them every few days, even with regular use.
Quick Charging: A quick 5-minute charge provides enough juice for a short workout session, which has saved me more than once.
Cons:
Volume Limitation: Due to the bone conduction design, the audio doesn’t get very loud. While it’s fine for most situations, it might struggle in noisy environments like crowded streets.
Overall, these headphones strike an excellent balance between functionality and safety. They’re ideal for sports enthusiasts or anyone who values situational awareness while listening to music. The slight volume limitation keeps it from a perfect 5-star rating, but they’re still a solid choice for daily use!
I would recommend this to a friend
Brand response from AfterShokz
Posted .
Hi there- Shokz here! Thanks for providing this feedback! We’re excited to share that we’ve just upgraded to the latest firmware version, and it can be updated via the Shokz app for the best experience with your OpenRun Pro 2. There is also a phone setting that may resolve the low volume issue. -On the iPhone, go to Settings > Sound & Haptics > Headphone Safety, make sure that the Reduce Loud Audio Feature is switched off as this will affect the volume of the headphone. -On an Android, go to the Bluetooth Settings on the phone, find the headphone and make sure that the Absolute Volume feature is switched on for it. Please reach out to our Customer Happiness Team if you have any questions. Thanks!
Rated 4 out of 5 stars
Comfortably and Lively Without Compromising Safety
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This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
I’ve been running with in-ear buds for so long I never imagined there could be a better way. Then I tried the bone-conducting Shokz OpenRun Pro 2. I’ve known about this headphone type for a while but dismissed them based on previous experience using other open headphones. To my surprise, I have to admit these are different from those. On my city runs I find them lively sounding, secure and “invisible” feeling, and quite comfortable. I give them a solid 4-stars out of 5 for this, deducting a star for its less-than-runner friendly controls and lack of auto-turn off.
UNBOXING
There isn’t much “unboxing” here. Included are the headphones inside a robust zippered semi-hard clamshell case measuring 4.5 W x 6 L x 2 D. There’s also a short USB-A to USB-C charge cable – the headphones charge via USB-C, so I don’t know why a USB-C to USB-C cable wasn’t included too since no charger is supplied. That’s it other than standard paperwork.
FIT AND FEEL
The Bluetooth 5.3 enabled OpenRun 2’s form factor is a flexible silicone-covered metal band that sits on the top of the ears with its earpieces resting where jawbone meets the ear, as it’s “bone conducting” technology suggests. Sound is achieved by a combination of traditional speakers pushing sounds into the ears plus bone conducting speakers that mostly enhance bass.
The band is not adjustable. Instead, two sizes are available, “standard,” and “mini”. Use a tape measure from the back of the left ear to the back of the right. If it’s 9.25” + then get the standard size. If it’s smaller than that, get the mini. Personally, I’m 9”, right on the border line of mini and standard. This review is for the standard, but 100% I need the mini based on my sound tests, so fit is exact here. More details on this in the “sound quality” section of this review.
Since “true wireless” ear buds became a thing, I’ve always bought those rather than ones connected with a band. I don’t like the wobble and sweat buildup that bands are prone to exhibit when running. This is more annoying to me than whatever unease earbuds present me. The feel of OpenRun Pro 2s though is the best of both. I don’t realize I’m wearing them; it’s like they are part of me. Even with the “standard” size being a hair too big for me it doesn’t shift or flop around.
One other aspect to fit is sunglasses since both sit on the ears. I run with sunglasses on when needed. Certainly the OpenRun 2s fit in conjunction with sunglasses will vary depending on the sunglass’s temples. Mine are thin metal and I did have to do a little fiddling to get a good fit for both sunglasses and headphones. During runs though there is no issue.
CONTROLS
Controls are the one aspect that tempers my good experience with them, the key reason for me giving it four rather than five stars. An approximately .25” x .125” raised multifunction button on the left speaker controls pause, song skip and replay using various click combinations. It’s also used to answer and hangup on a phone call. The button size and feel are fine. My problem is it’s too sensitive. Often I’ll wipe sweat off the side of my face and accidentally brush on this button and pause the music ruining my focus.
Behind the right speaker lies the combination volume and power buttons. These require a small reach to get to and I find them decidedly awkward to use when walking and impossible when running at pace. It’s particularly aggravating when a new song recorded at a higher level than the previous one starts playing and you want to quickly tap down the volume. The reach wouldn’t be as much of an issue if the volume buttons were more tactile. The “-“ and “+” abutt each other with no definition between them. These buttons, respectively, do have a miniscule raised “-“ and “+”, markings but they are so small I can’t discern anything other than they are bumps. In my mind this configuration would be more workable if the buttons were just a raised “-“ and “+” without all the surrounding rubber.
The ”+” button doubles as the power button. A long press powers on and off and I’ve never accidentally turned it off while adjusting volume, but I have missed a long press to power off. Unfortunately, the OpenRun 2 does not have auto-power off like other premium buds I’ve used, so I end up with dead headphones. The OpenRun 2 does have fast charge which gives you a couple hours playtime with a 5-minute charge. Personally, though, when I’m amped for a run and all stretched out, waiting 5 minutes is like 50. Additionally, while the OpenRun 2 does have an LED to indicate power on and off they are only brief flashes, not constant. It’s easy to think you turned the headphones off when you didn’t if you are not paying attention to these flashes.
The battery life itself is quite good, about 12 hours, which is nice since charging is only by physical USB-C. Unfortunately, no wireless charging on these.
SOUND QUALITY – Music and Podcasts
It’s important to understand upfront that the motivation for owning the OpenRun 2 should be comfort and safety, particularly when running or walking in areas where being aware of your surroundings is vital, be it cars turning bikes and scooters whizzing by on the trail. Sound quality takes 2nd billing to being able to hear honks and bells (or many times no warning at all other than the ambient noise of the vehicle itself). In that light, the OpenRun 2 is really purpose-built and different than “general purpose” buds or over the ear headphones at this price point that 100% will sound better but offer less transparency to external noises.
With that said, the
“listenability” of these is well beyond my expectations and I thoroughly enjoy them with no regrets of abandoning my earbuds with “transparency” mode for runs and even walks. My run playlist consists of high and mid energy dance, rock, and pop that keeps me moving and the OpenRun 2’s don’t distract with wimpy or tinny sound. Vocals are clear with great mid and high separation.
Then there is the bass. This is where buying the right size matters. As I noted earlier I should be wearing the “mini” size rather than the “standard” size, with standard starting at a 9.25” back-of-ear to back-of-ear distance. I’m 9”, a mere .25” short. But because of the .25 deficit bass is less present, I think, than if I was wearing the right size.
Knowing the standard size was a fraction too big for me I conducted a unscientific test by applying a small strip of skin tape on each speaker area (but not blocking the speaker) to hug my face better. Immediately the basslines where reverberating through me and it was an amazing experience. A nice dose, but not overpowering, of thump coursed through me. So, I can’t emphasize enough - make sure to buy the right size for your head for max enjoyment.
The overall audio experience, even with a less ideal size headband, is fantastic and quite immersive, something I didn’t expect in an open ear design. I don’t feel like my ears are competing between the music and external sounds or that the external sounds were overpowering the music from the headphones. And still, a biker’s bell is quite recognizable, which is just how I want it. For audio volume reference, when wearing “transparency” earbuds my volume is usually around 40%. I have to pump the OpenRun 2’s to about 60% for equivalent audio levels in typical city noise. However, louder noises like landing airplanes or jackhammers will, understandably, drown the OpenRun 2s out.
SOUND QUALITY – Phone Calls
I tried making a phone call after a run on a local bike/run path on the edge of the city. It’s quieter here than other nearby areas, but still lots of ambient noise. This experience was quite different than listening to podcasts. It was a tough hearing the other end of the conversation even with volume at 100%. I don’t know why the phone audio level was so low compared to music or podcasts, could be the phone itself. Inside the house, where I can better control ambient noise, volume was good and audio was clean.
APP
Naturally there is an app. Its functionality is useful but limited. The highlight is sound presets and a manual equalizer. I didn’t detect huge difference in the various presets, but the equalizer was handy to bump up the bass a bit and you can save those as custom presets. That said, if you are app weary and privacy click-wrap wary, the OpenRun 2’s work and sound fine without the app. There is no “must” to use it even for initial setup.
USE CASE AND CONCLUSION
These headphones are purposely called OpenRun 2, and excellent for that activity, providing a secure, no-fall out, fit and feel and excellent (for what they are) audio in noisy environments without obscuring potential safety dangers. Of course, this also extends to power walks and strolls too. In fact, these are great for any situation where being aware of your surrounding in priority 1 – for exampling babysitting where you don’t want to disturb a sleeping baby.
That said, if you are looking for no-compromise sound or headphones that seal off loud background noise these are not them. The OpenRun 2 is fantastic for its intended purpose. Understand that, get the proper size, and I think you’ll be happy with them.
This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
I have a few different pairs of Shokz headphones, all of which have been excellent outdoor activity friendly options. The Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 sports headphones do not disappoint for both feature and function specific to sports and outdoors use.
In the box is the headphone, USB-C charging cable, protective carrying case, and paperwork. Setup is straight forward, there is a Shokz app to control firmware updates, EQ settings, and turn on or off the MultiPoint pairing feature. While the app is not required, I prefer having it to be able to adjust EQ based on activity and music. To pair, press and hold the power button, pairing status will be announced via the headphones, which you can proceed to connect to a Bluetooth device. There are two buttons on the right side behind the ear, the power / volume up button, and the volume down button. There is also a multifunction button on the left ear piece which allows for play / pause music, answer / end calls, previous / next song. The good news is that the multifunction button works as expected, no accidental double taps or accidental hang ups. One downside is that there is no reprogramming of buttons, so you get what you get with this build. As a lefty, I'd prefer the buttons to be on reversed sides, but not a deal breaker.
As far as the design, the headphones fit everyone due to the flexible, lightweight style of the coated nickel-titanium frame. The design and weighting is well balanced, so I don't get any movement during running or strength training. The speakers sit just outside of my ears, comfortably, and provide an immersive sound that feels three dimensional.
As far as sound goes, overall I'm surprisingly impressed. The DualPitch technology combines bone conduction for high ranges and air conduction for bass ranges. The crazy thing is how well this works, the audio quality is crisp and has depth. One really interesting thing is that my husband, who has mild to moderate hearing loss at high range, can hear exceptionally well with these headphones, which was a very nice design bonus. The sound depth is balanced, it doesn't feel over driven, and the dynamic range compression ensures that high volume listening isn't distorted and the soft tones are heard.
Other things to note, the call quality is phenomenal, better than any ear bud I've tried previously. No more echo-y audio, the dual positioned microphones pick up very well, and the calls are clear, even with background wind noise. There is a MultiPoint pairing function, so you can be paired to two devices at once. The headphones are water resistant and easy to keep clean. The battery life is good, so far I'm at 8 hours of use with 40% battery left. The only complaint I have is that the EQ doesn't do the audio justice. The presets are ok, and the customizable EQ leaves some to be desired. As these are sports headphones, I won't say that's worth taking off a star, but it is slightly annoying that the EQ is the worst part of the sound experience.
Overall if you're outdoors, especially if you need an open ear design for safety, I'm not sure I could recommend anything else above these headphones. Great call quality, immersive sound, and the fit and balance are on point, even on the most challenging terrain.