Shokz OpenSwim Bone Conduction Open-Ear Mp3 Swimming Headphones Review

First Impressions of Shokz OpenSwim Bone Conduction Open-Ear Mp3 Swimming Headphones

The Shokz OpenSwim Bone Conduction Open-Ear Mp3 Swimming Headphones (formerly Xtrainerz) promise a bud-free, comfortable listening experience for swimmers, utilizing Shokz‘s signature open-ear design and bone conduction technology. These headphones boast complete waterproof and submersible capabilities, coupled with 4GB of MP3 storage, eliminating the need for wires or external devices. As someone who spends countless hours in the water, both for training and recreation, the promise of high-quality audio without the hassle of traditional earbuds immediately piqued my interest.

I’ve always struggled with keeping earbuds in place while swimming. They either fall out with every stroke or create an uncomfortable pressure seal that’s far from ideal for long sessions. The Shokz OpenSwim Bone Conduction Open-Ear Mp3 Swimming Headphones seemed like the perfect solution to this persistent problem.

Upon unboxing, the Shokz OpenSwim Bone Conduction Open-Ear Mp3 Swimming Headphones felt surprisingly lightweight and robust. The smooth, ergonomic design appeared comfortable, and the lack of any protruding earbuds was a definite plus. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism; would these actually stay in place and deliver decent audio quality underwater?

Compared to other waterproof headphones I’ve tried, like the FINIS Duo Underwater MP3 Player (which uses cheekbone conduction but clips onto goggle straps) and various Bluetooth waterproof earbuds, the Shokz OpenSwim Bone Conduction Open-Ear Mp3 Swimming Headphones offered a more streamlined and self-contained design. I chose the Shokz OpenSwim Bone Conduction Open-Ear Mp3 Swimming Headphones for its promise of simplicity and comfort. I was excited to see if it could live up to the hype.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Shokz OpenSwim Bone Conduction Open-Ear Mp3 Swimming Headphones to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test was during a morning swim workout at the local YMCA pool. I loaded the Shokz OpenSwim Bone Conduction Open-Ear Mp3 Swimming Headphones with some energetic rock and electronic music to keep me motivated. The initial fit felt secure, even before diving in.

Submerged, the audio quality was surprisingly clear, though definitely different from traditional headphones. The bone conduction technology transmitted the sound effectively, even with the added resistance of the water. I did notice that the headphones shifted slightly during flip turns, but they never came close to falling off completely.

Using the controls took a little getting used to at first, as they are small and require a firm press. Overall, the first swim was a positive experience. I did find that ensuring a tight fit with my swim cap improved the bass response noticeably.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, swimming three to four times a week, the Shokz OpenSwim Bone Conduction Open-Ear Mp3 Swimming Headphones have become an integral part of my swim routine. They have held up remarkably well, showing no signs of wear and tear despite being constantly exposed to chlorinated water. A quick rinse with fresh water after each swim is all the maintenance they require.

The durability of the Shokz OpenSwim Bone Conduction Open-Ear Mp3 Swimming Headphones is impressive. I’ve accidentally dropped them a couple of times without any ill effects. Compared to previous waterproof earbuds I’ve used, which often succumbed to water damage after a few months, the Shokz OpenSwim Bone Conduction Open-Ear Mp3 Swimming Headphones clearly outperform them in terms of longevity and reliability.

Breaking Down the Features of Shokz OpenSwim Bone Conduction Open-Ear Mp3 Swimming Headphones

Specifications

• The Shokz OpenSwim Bone Conduction Open-Ear Mp3 Swimming Headphones utilize 7th generation bone conduction technology, delivering audio through the cheekbones, leaving the ears open for awareness. This is crucial for safety in shared swimming spaces.
• With 4GB of internal MP3 storage, the Shokz OpenSwim Bone Conduction Open-Ear Mp3 Swimming Headphones can hold approximately 1,200 songs. The ample storage eliminates the need for a separate device.
• The IP68 waterproof rating ensures complete protection against submersion in water up to 2 meters for 2 hours. This gives peace of mind for serious swimmers.
• The 8-hour battery life provides enough power for multiple swim sessions on a single charge. It’s more than adequate for my weekly training.
• Bone Conduction Transducers deliver audio through the cheekbones, rather than the ear canal. This provides a unique listening experience.

These specifications are significant because they directly impact the usability and performance of the headphones in a swimming environment. The IP68 waterproof rating is essential for preventing water damage. The bone conduction technology ensures you can hear your music while still being aware of your surroundings.

Performance & Functionality

The Shokz OpenSwim Bone Conduction Open-Ear Mp3 Swimming Headphones perform exceptionally well in the water, delivering clear and consistent audio. While the sound quality isn’t quite as rich as high-end over-ear headphones, it’s more than adequate for keeping me entertained during long swims. The headphones stay securely in place during most swimming activities.

A major strength is the ease of loading music onto the device. Simply connect it to a computer via the included charging cradle and drag and drop your MP3 files. The only weakness is that they only support MP3 format, so you’ll need to convert other audio formats before loading them.

Overall, the Shokz OpenSwim Bone Conduction Open-Ear Mp3 Swimming Headphones meet my expectations for a dedicated swimming headphone. They allow me to enjoy music without the constant hassle of readjusting earbuds.

Design & Ergonomics

The Shokz OpenSwim Bone Conduction Open-Ear Mp3 Swimming Headphones feature a lightweight, wraparound design made from titanium alloy. The material choice provides both flexibility and durability. The open-ear design is comfortable, even for extended use, and the controls are easily accessible while swimming.

The headphones are incredibly user-friendly. The learning curve is minimal. The only minor issue is that the charging cradle can be a little fiddly to connect, but it’s a small price to pay for the overall convenience.

Durability & Maintenance

The Shokz OpenSwim Bone Conduction Open-Ear Mp3 Swimming Headphones are built to last. The titanium frame and IP68 waterproof rating ensure they can withstand the rigors of daily swimming. Maintenance is simple. Rinsing with fresh water after each use is generally sufficient to keep them in good condition.

Based on my experience, I expect these headphones to last for several years with proper care. They are a significant upgrade from disposable waterproof earbuds.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Shokz OpenSwim Bone Conduction Open-Ear Mp3 Swimming Headphones come with a charging cradle and a pair of earplugs. The earplugs are designed to enhance the bass response by blocking out external noise. There are no official customization options, but the headphones are compatible with most standard swim caps and goggles.

Pros and Cons of Shokz OpenSwim Bone Conduction Open-Ear Mp3 Swimming Headphones

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Who Should Buy Shokz OpenSwim Bone Conduction Open-Ear Mp3 Swimming Headphones?

The Shokz OpenSwim Bone Conduction Open-Ear Mp3 Swimming Headphones are perfect for:

• Competitive swimmers: Provide motivation and entertainment during training sessions.
• Triathletes: Allow for music during open water swims.
• Casual swimmers: Make leisurely swims more enjoyable.
• Anyone who prefers open-ear listening: Offer a comfortable and safe alternative to traditional earbuds.

Who should skip this product? If you prioritize audiophile-grade sound quality above all else, you might find the bone conduction audio to be lacking compared to high-end headphones.

Must-have accessories or modifications? A good swim cap can help ensure a snug fit and improve bass response.

Conclusion on Shokz OpenSwim Bone Conduction Open-Ear Mp3 Swimming Headphones

The Shokz OpenSwim Bone Conduction Open-Ear Mp3 Swimming Headphones are a game-changer for anyone who loves to swim and listen to music. They offer a unique and comfortable listening experience, combined with impressive durability and waterproof capabilities. The convenience of built-in MP3 storage is a significant advantage.

At $149.95, the price is justified by the quality, performance, and longevity of the product. They’re an investment in a more enjoyable and motivated swimming experience.

I would absolutely recommend the Shokz OpenSwim Bone Conduction Open-Ear Mp3 Swimming Headphones to any swimmer looking for a reliable and hassle-free way to listen to music in the water. Dive in and transform your swim workouts!