If you’re the type who loves to pump up the jams while staying aware of your surroundings, then the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 might be exactly what you’re looking for. A new flagship in Shokz’s range of bone conduction headphones, the OpenRun Pro 2 takes everything that made the original great and kicks it up a notch. But are these premium sports headphones worth the £159.95 price tag? Let’s break it down.
DualPitch™ Technology: A Whole New Dimension of Sound
The standout feature of the OpenRun Pro 2 is its DualPitch™ technology. This introduces two drivers per ear: one dedicated to bone conduction for crisp mids and highs, and another for air conduction, delivering a deeper, more powerful bass. This fusion creates a balanced, immersive sound experience, which is a notable leap from the original OpenRun Pro’s sound quality. It’s like having a personal concert in your ears, minus the discomfort of traditional in-ear buds. Plus, the DRC (Dynamic Range Control) ensures the sound remains distortion-free even at high volumes.
Comfort and Fit: Built for Movement, Not for Fuss
Comfort is key when you’re on the move, and the OpenRun Pro 2 doesn't disappoint. The lightweight 30g frame incorporates nickel-titanium alloy memory wire ear hooks for stability and flexibility. Whether you’re on a run, hike, or just strolling around town, the headphones stay securely in place without squeezing your head, thanks to a 16% reduction in clamping force from the previous version.
What’s great about the open-ear design is that it promotes better hygiene (no sweaty earbuds!) and allows you to stay aware of your environment – whether that’s incoming traffic or a friendly bird call. This awareness is essential for runners or cyclists who need to keep an ear on their surroundings.
Enhanced Features for the Everyday Athlete
When it comes to usability, Shokz has packed some nifty upgrades into the OpenRun Pro 2. First off, the battery life has been improved, offering up to 12 hours of music playback on a full charge. For those who are constantly on the go, the quick charge feature is a lifesaver – just five minutes of charging gives you up to 2.5 hours of listening time.
The switch to a USB-C charging port (finally waterproofed!) is another welcome improvement, making charging faster and more convenient. The headphones are IP55 sweatproof, so they’ll survive even the most intense, sweat-drenched workout sessions.
Audio Performance: Say Goodbye to Sound Leaks
If you’ve ever used bone conduction headphones before, you know that sound leakage can be a bit of a problem. The OpenRun Pro 2 takes care of this with its DirectPitch™ technology, which minimizes leakage while keeping audio private. So, you can rock out without sharing your playlist with everyone around you. Combined with a decoupled driver design, these headphones ensure that your audio remains yours and yours alone.
The dual-microphone setup with AI noise-cancelling ensures that your calls are crisp and clear, even in windy conditions. This makes them perfect not just for fitness enthusiasts, but for anyone who wants to take a hands-free call on the go.
Bluetooth 5.3 for Better Connectivity
Gone are the days of patchy Bluetooth connections. With Bluetooth 5.3, pairing is faster and more stable, even in crowded areas. Whether you’re switching between devices or using your headphones in a busy park, you won’t have to deal with connection dropouts.
Four EQ Modes for Customised Listening
Shokz has introduced four EQ modes—Standard, Vocal, Bass Boost, and Treble Boost—tailoring your sound for different genres and preferences. And if that’s not enough, there are two customizable modes that allow you to tweak the sound to suit your exact taste. Whether you’re listening to a podcast or blasting some high-energy tunes for your workout, there’s an EQ setting for you.
The Verdict: Worth the Investment?
At £159.95, the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 isn’t cheap, but it offers a unique listening experience that traditional earbuds can’t match. The combination of DualPitch™ technology, 12-hour battery life, a comfortable, secure fit, and superior sound quality makes these headphones a top contender for anyone who needs open-ear audio for safety while working out. The leak-proof design and stable Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity further sweeten the deal.
While they may not be for everyone – especially those who prefer full isolation during their listening – the OpenRun Pro 2 excels at keeping you immersed in your music without disconnecting you from your environment. For runners, cyclists, and outdoor enthusiasts who value both safety and sound, they’re definitely worth the investment.
KEEP EXPLORING
This article was originally published on 11 Sept 2024. Product specifications, prices and availability may have changed. We sometimes receive review products and may earn commission through affiliate links. We are not obliged to publish a positive review. About our reviews and disclosures.
