Find Your Perfect Pair of Shokz Headphones
Shokz (formerly AfterShokz) is rewriting the rulebook on personal audio with its innovative open-ear headphones. Using cutting-edge bone conduction and air conduction technology, Shokz headphones are designed to keep you tuned into your surroundings while delivering rich, immersive sound.
Whether you're hitting the pavement, powering through a swim, cruising on your bike, or just after everyday comfort, there's a Shokz model built for you. In this guide, we’ll unpack the tech, compare the standout models, and help you find your ideal match—so you can enjoy your music without compromise.
Jump to product-specific information:
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| Shokz OpenRun Series | Shokz OpenSwim Series | Shokz Open Fit Series |
How Do Shokz Headphones Work?
Unlike most brands, Shokz takes a pretty unique approach to their headphones. Rather than using standard in-ear or over-ear technology, they offer headphones that use innovative bone conduction and air conduction technologies, giving users the flexibility to choose their preferred listening style. Here’s how they work:
Bone Conduction Technology (OpenRun Pro, OpenRun, OpenSwim)
Instead of using traditional speakers, Shokz’ bone-conducting headphones transmit sound through vibrations on the cheekbones, keeping your ears completely open. This works by:
- Converting audio signals into vibrations.
- Sending these vibrations through the bones in your skull to your inner ear.
- Bypassing the eardrum entirely, allowing you to hear sound while keeping your ears open.
Benefits of Bone Conduction Headphones:
✔️ Keeps your ears open to hear ambient sounds (safety for running & cycling).
✔️ Comfortable for long wear, especially for people sensitive to earbuds.
✔️ Suitable for those with certain types of hearing loss.
Air Conduction Technology (OpenFit Air, OpenFit, OpenFit 2)
The Shokz OpenFit range uses a technology that’s known as air conduction technology. This means:
- Small speakers sit just outside your ears.
- They direct sound towards your ear canal without sealing it shut.
- You get clearer bass and a more traditional listening experience while still staying aware of your surroundings.
Benefits of Air Conduction Headphones:
✔️ More natural sound quality with better bass response.
✔️ Still maintains situational awareness.
✔️ Ideal for casual, everyday listening.
Shokz Headphone Lineup & Who They’re Right For
So, we understand the technology behind Shokz' headphone lineup, but what’s the real difference between each model? Whether you’re after a partner for your workouts, an everyday driver, or something in between, we’re breaking down the full lineup to help you find the best match.
Shokz OpenRun Series—Best for Athletes & Sports Enthusiasts
| OpenRun | OpenRun Pro | OpenRun Pro 2 | |
| Headphone Technology | 8th Gen Bone Conduction | 9th Gen Bone Conduction | 10th Gen Bone Conduction |
| Battery Life | 8 Hours | 10 Hours | 12 Hours |
| Weatherproof Rating | IP67 Waterproof | IP55 Sweatproof | IP55 Sweatproof |
| Enhanced Bass | No | Yes | Yes |
| Noise-Cancelling Mic | No | No | Yes |
| Comfort/Fit | Standard | Improved | Premium |
| Charging Time | 1.5 Hour | 1 Hour | 1 Hour |
| Quick Charge | 10-min = 1.5 Hours | 5-min = 1.5 Hours | 5-min = 2.5 Hours |
🥇 Who Are They Right For?
For runners, cyclists, and gym-goers who want situational awareness while enjoying high-quality audio, Shokz OpenRun headphones are ideal.
The original OpenRun model, released in 2021, are a fantastic entry-level option for those new to bone conduction technology, offering a lightweight and comfortable fit.
Following that, the first-generation OpenRun Pro, now discontinued, enhanced the original design with improved bass, catering to users seeking richer sound during workouts.
Now, the OpenRun Pro 2, released in 2024, further refines the experience with a more comfortable fit, faster charging, and noise-cancelling microphones, making them perfect for dedicated athletes requiring peak performance and reliability.
💡 SHS Top Tip: For those looking for a more snug fit, Shokz also offer an OpenRun Pro Mini variation that caters to those with slightly narrower head sizes.
Shokz OpenSwim Series—Best for Swimming & Water Sports
| OpenSwim | OpenSwim Pro | |
| Headphone Technology | 7th Gen Bone Conduction | 8th Gen Bone Conduction |
| Battery Life | 8 Hours | 9 Hours (BT) / 6 Hours (MP3) |
| Weatherproof Rating | IP68 Waterproof | IP68 Waterproof |
| MP3 Storage | Yes (4GB Memory) | Yes (32GB Memory) |
| Bluetooth Support | No | Yes (BT 5.4) |
| Charging Time | 2 Hours | 1.5 Hours |
| Quick Charge | No | 10 Min = 3 Hours |
| Weight | 30 g | 27.3 g |
🥇 Who Are They Right For?
Shokz OpenSwim: Ideal for swimmers seeking a straightforward, durable MP3 player for underwater listening.
Shokz OpenSwim Pro: Suited for multi-sport athletes desiring both underwater MP3 functionality and Bluetooth connectivity for land activities.
Note: Underwater use is limited to MP3 mode due to Bluetooth signal disruption by water. The OpenSwim is ideal for casual swimmers, while the OpenSwim Pro offers enhanced performance for serious water athletes. However, when used above water, the OpenSwim Pro can connect to an Apple Watch via Bluetooth for seamless audio streaming. While the Apple Watch itself is waterproof, Bluetooth signals do not travel well through water, so connectivity may still be limited when submerged.
Watch: Shokz OpenSwim Pro & OpenFit Air Review: The Ultimate (Sport) Headphones?
Shokz OpenFit Series—Best for Everyday Listening & Exercise
| OpenFit Air | OpenFit | OpenFit 2 | |
| Headphone Technology | Air Conduction | Air Conduction | Air Conduction |
| Battery Life | 28 Hours (inc. Case) | 28 Hours (inc. Case) | 48 Hours (inc. Case) |
| Weatherproof Rating | IP54 Water-Resistant | IP54 Water Resistant | IP55 Sweatproof |
| Enhanced Bass | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Noise-Cancelling Mic | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Comfort/Fit | Standard | Improved | Premium |
| Charging Time | 2 Hours | 2 Hours | 1.5 hours |
| Quick Charge | 10 min = 2 Hours | 5 min = 1 Hour | 10 min = 2 Hours |
🥇 Who Are They Right For?
If you're looking for optimum performance within the OpenFit range, the Shokz OpenFit 2 provides the best level of comfort, sound performance, battery life, water resistance, and call quality.
For a budget-friendly option, the Shokz OpenFit Air delivers a comfortable, lightweight fit, ideal for extended listening. While slightly less performance-driven, they're perfect for casual workouts and everyday use, offering excellent sound without the premium price tag.
Read More: Shokz OpenFit 2 Review: The Ultimate Open-Ear Upgrade?
Why Buy From Smart Home Sounds?
As an official UK supplier of Shokz headphones, we guarantee authentic products with full warranty coverage. Whether you're into fitness, swimming, or casual listening, we’ll help you find your ideal match.
🎥 Plus, check out our YouTube channel with 130K+ subscribers for hands-on reviews and comparisons to guide your purchase.
💬 Got questions? Get in touch for expert advice and exclusive deals!
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