Shokz OpenSwim Pro Review: Should You Buy This?
Do you love swimming but hate losing your favorite tunes underwater? The Shokz OpenSwim Pro might be your answer. This bone conduction headphone brings music to your swim sessions without earbuds or wires.
Shokz built this device for water lovers. It has an IP68 waterproof rating. That means it handles pool laps and open water swims with ease.
The OpenSwim Pro offers dual connectivity. You get Bluetooth and MP3 storage in one device. This gives you 32GB of space for your playlists, even when Bluetooth signals get weak underwater.
This review looks closely at the OpenSwim Pro. We check its comfort, sound quality, and connectivity performance. We also compare it to competitors like the original OpenSwim and H2O Audio Tri Pro 2.
Ready to find your next swim companion? Let’s jump in.
In a Nutshell
Here is a quick snapshot of what this headphone offers:
- Bone conduction technology sits outside your ear canal. Sound travels through your cheekbones instead of your eardrums.
- 32GB internal storage lets you carry a huge music library without needing your phone nearby.
- The IP68 waterproof rating means this device handles pool laps and open water swims with ease.
- Sound quality stays fair when you swim, though clarity drops slightly underwater compared to open air.
- Quick charge support gets you back in the water fast after a short plug in session.
- Control buttons feel trickier to find than on older Shokz models. Swimmers with wet fingers may fumble at first.
- Bluetooth connection can lag or drop while submerged. This happens more often in deeper water.
- Competitors like H2O Audio Tri Pro 2 and Finis Swimp3 offer similar bone conduction designs worth comparing.
This headphone suits swimmers who want music without wires. Just expect a small learning curve with the buttons.
Design and Build Quality
The Shokz OpenSwim Pro uses bone conduction technology positioned on your temples. This design keeps your ear canals completely open. You hear music while staying aware of your swimming environment and any sounds around you.
The headphone weighs very little. You’ll barely notice it during long swim sessions. The secure fit stays locked in place even during vigorous strokes and turns. Many swimmers appreciate how the lightweight build reduces fatigue on your neck and head.
The device features a sleek, curved frame that wraps around your head. Silicone ear loops hold everything steady without pinching or causing discomfort. The smooth finish resists chlorine and salt water damage over time.
Build quality feels solid throughout. The material selection shows attention to durability for aquatic use. Shokz reinforced critical connection points where stress typically occurs. The overall construction suggests these headphones can handle repeated pool sessions without falling apart.
One notable change from previous models involves the control buttons. Finding them takes more effort than on older Shokz versions. The buttons sit flush against the frame rather than protruding. This design choice improves water resistance but makes operation slightly awkward at first. You’ll need to memorize button locations through practice.
The charging port includes a protective cover. This seal prevents water from entering the electronics. The quick charge feature means you spend minimal time tethered to a power outlet between swims.
The IP68 waterproof rating covers complete submersion. The headphones survive saltwater, chlorinated pools, and freshwater lakes equally well. The bone conduction speakers remain sealed against water intrusion.
Comfort during extended wear stands out as a major strength. The open ear design prevents that trapped feeling many swimmers dislike. Your ears stay dry throughout use. The adjustable fit allows you to customize how snugly the band sits on your head.
Overall, the design prioritizes functionality and durability. The build quality matches expectations for a water sports device. The frame feels premium without being overly heavy. Swimmers seeking a reliable, comfortable option will find the OpenSwim Pro’s construction meets those needs effectively.
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Waterproof Performance and Durability
The IP68 waterproof rating makes the OpenSwim Pro a genuine all-water performer. This certification means the device survives complete submersion in up to 2 meters of water for 30 minutes. You can trust it during pool sessions, ocean swims, and water sports without worry.
Real world testing shows the headphones handle chlorine, saltwater, and freshwater environments well. The protective charging port cover prevents water from entering critical electronics. This small detail matters more than you might think for long term durability.
The bone conduction design itself adds durability benefits. Since sound travels through vibrations on your temples rather than through traditional speakers, there are fewer moving parts to corrode or fail. The lightweight frame reduces stress on connection points that typically break first.
However, Bluetooth performance drops noticeably underwater. The connection can lag or cut out during submersion. This is a real limitation for those who want seamless music streaming while swimming. The MP3 storage feature becomes more valuable because of this issue. You load songs directly onto the device and enjoy uninterrupted playback without relying on wireless signals.
The device’s curved design and secure fit prevent water from shifting the headphones around. Movement stays minimal even during vigorous swimming strokes. This stability protects internal components from damage caused by constant shifting or impact.
Battery performance remains solid even after repeated water exposure. Users report consistent 9 hour battery life across multiple swim sessions. The quick charge feature gets you ready for another swim without lengthy wait times.
The build quality throughout the OpenSwim Pro reflects careful engineering for wet environments. Materials resist corrosion and salt damage effectively. Seals around buttons and ports hold up well over time with proper care.
One consideration: rinsing the headphones with fresh water after saltwater use extends their lifespan significantly. This simple maintenance step prevents mineral buildup that can damage electronics over months.
Overall, the OpenSwim Pro delivers genuine waterproof durability for serious swimmers. The IP68 rating combined with solid construction makes this device a reliable companion for regular water activities.
Sound Quality and Connectivity
The Shokz OpenSwim Pro delivers fair sound quality when you’re above water, though underwater performance shows some limitations. The bone conduction design transmits vibrations through your temples rather than pushing sound into your ear canal. This approach means you hear music while staying aware of your surroundings, which matters for safety during open water swims.
When you’re out of the pool, the audio clarity feels decent for a waterproof device. Music playback comes through cleanly enough for most swimmers who want to enjoy their favorite tracks during training sessions. The bone conduction technology prevents water from clogging traditional speakers or damaging internal components.
Bluetooth connectivity presents the biggest challenge when you actually submerge yourself. The wireless connection tends to lag or drop while you’re underwater, which frustrates many users. This happens because water absorbs radio signals, making it difficult for Bluetooth to maintain a stable link at depth.
That’s where the 32GB internal storage becomes your real advantage. You can load hundreds of songs directly onto the headphones without relying on your phone or a constant Bluetooth connection. This storage capacity means you never need wireless connectivity during your actual swim.
The dual connectivity system gives you flexibility. Use Bluetooth when you’re poolside or during warm up exercises above water. Switch to your stored MP3 files once you dive in for uninterrupted music throughout your session.
Sound quality underwater remains softer than what you experience in air. The bone conduction vibrations travel differently through water, reducing overall clarity and volume. However, this doesn’t prevent you from hearing your music or staying motivated during your workout.
The quick charge capability helps you get back in the water fast after your battery runs down. The protective charging port cover keeps moisture away from electronics, maintaining long term reliability. Overall, the sound experience works well for swimmers who understand its strengths and limitations.
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The Aftershokz Xtrainerz brings bone conduction technology to water sports. These earbuds sit on your cheekbones and send sound directly through vibrations. You get clear audio without blocking your ear canals, so you hear water sounds around you.
The battery lasts up to 8 hours on a single charge. They’re fully waterproof and work great for swimming, diving, and water aerobics. The controls sit on the ear loop, making them easy to adjust while wet. Sound quality stays crisp even underwater, and the fit feels secure during active movements.
Sony WF-SP800N
- Truly wireless earbuds with soft cushioned arc supporter
- Get deep in the zone with digital noise cancellation. Effective Range-Line of sight approx 30 feet
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Sony’s WF-SP800N offers noise cancellation in a compact wireless design. These true wireless earbuds have an IPX4 rating, protecting them from water splashes and sweat. The fit is snug with multiple ear tip sizes to find your perfect match.
Active noise cancellation blocks out gym noise and traffic sounds. Battery life reaches 8 hours with the charging case adding 16 more hours total. The touch controls respond quickly to your commands. The ambient sound mode lets you hear announcements or warnings when needed. These work best for gym training rather than full submersion in water.
Philips ActionFit Sports
- Open acoustics let sound in for better awareness and safety. Connectivity Technology: Wireless
- High performance sound pushes you further
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Philips ActionFit Sports earbuds focus on comfort during intense workouts. The flexible ear loops wrap around your ear for a stable hold. They’re sweat-resistant with an IPX5 rating that handles heavy moisture and light water exposure.
The sound profile emphasizes bass and rhythm, perfect for running or cycling. Battery life gives you 6 hours of playtime per charge. The lightweight design feels almost invisible during movement. These earbuds pair easily with your phone and stay connected during outdoor activities. They’re ideal for athletes who want reliable audio without premium pricing.
Battery Life and Charging
The Shokz OpenSwim Pro delivers up to 9 hours of battery life on a single charge. This runtime covers most swimming sessions and training routines without interruption.
The quick charge capability means you won’t wait long when the battery runs low. You can get back to your workout faster than with many competing waterproof headphones. The charging port sits protected behind a cover, which keeps water and debris out between sessions.
Real world testing shows the battery holds strong even after repeated water exposure. Chlorine, saltwater, and freshwater environments don’t degrade the battery performance noticeably. The headphones maintain consistent runtime whether you swim in a pool or open water.
Battery drain varies based on your usage pattern. Bluetooth mode consumes more power than MP3 mode. If you stream music via Bluetooth constantly, expect closer to the lower end of that 9 hour range. Switching to the 32GB internal storage for offline playback extends your battery life significantly.
The bone conduction design contributes to efficient power management. Unlike traditional earbuds, these headphones don’t require drivers pushing sound directly into your ear canal. This design choice means less energy consumption during playback.
Temperature affects battery performance like it does with any lithium battery. Cold water may reduce runtime slightly, but the difference stays minimal in practical use. Warm pool water shows no noticeable impact on battery drain.
The protective charging cover deserves mention because it prevents accidental water intrusion at the port. This simple feature adds years to your device’s lifespan. Always ensure the cover sits flush before submerging the headphones.
Monitoring your battery level happens through the Shokz app or via audio cues. Low battery warnings give you advance notice so you won’t get caught without audio mid-swim. The app shows exact percentage remaining, which helps with planning longer training sessions.
Overall, the battery life meets the needs of most swimmers. Nine hours covers multiple training sessions or casual swimming throughout the day. The quick charge feature and dual connectivity options give you flexibility in how you manage power between workouts.
Comfort and Fit for Extended Wear
The Shokz OpenSwim Pro sits comfortably on your head for hours without causing fatigue. The lightweight design means you won’t feel weighed down during long swim sessions. Your ears stay free from traditional earbuds, which eliminates the pressure and discomfort many swimmers experience.
The secure fit keeps the headphones locked in place. You won’t have them shifting or sliding around your head as you move through the water. This stability matters because it reduces the need to constantly readjust your device.
The bone conduction technology plays a key role in comfort. Since the headphones don’t insert into your ear canals, you get a completely different wearing experience. Your ears remain open to water and ambient sounds around you. This design choice prevents the trapped feeling that traditional waterproof earbuds can create.
The curved headband distributes weight evenly across your head. You experience minimal pressure points even after wearing them for extended periods. Many swimmers report forgetting they’re wearing the device after just a few minutes.
Sweat and chlorine don’t affect the fit quality. The material maintains its grip whether you’re doing freestyle laps or treading water. The secure positioning prevents water from shifting the headphones during flip turns or diving.
The headband’s flexibility allows for a personalized fit. Different head sizes and shapes work well with this design. You can wear them over a swim cap if you prefer extra coverage.
Your comfort extends beyond just physical fit. The open ear design lets you hear your coach’s instructions or lifeguard warnings. You stay aware of your surroundings while enjoying your audio content.
The padding on the contact points feels soft against your skin. This prevents irritation during multi hour swimming sessions. Regular swimmers appreciate how the device doesn’t create red marks or soreness.
Storage pockets or attachment points aren’t needed since the headphones stay on your head. You have one less thing to worry about during your swim routine. The all in one design simplifies your preparation process.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Bone conduction design keeps your ears open and lets you hear your surroundings while swimming
- Lightweight and secure fit means you can wear these for hours without discomfort or fatigue
- Dual connectivity gives you both Bluetooth and MP3 storage so you have options in and out of water
- 32GB internal storage holds hundreds of songs for offline listening during your swims
- IP68 waterproof rating protects against saltwater, chlorine, and deep submersion
Cons
- Bluetooth performance drops significantly when you submerge yourself underwater
- Control buttons are harder to find and locate compared to the original OpenSwim model
- Sound quality underwater sounds softer and less punchy than what you get in air
- Limited real world testing data from independent reviewers on long term durability
Who Should Buy It
The Shokz OpenSwim Pro works best for swimmers who want music during their workouts. If you spend time in the pool regularly, these headphones let you enjoy your favorite tracks without traditional earbuds or wires getting in your way.
Competitive swimmers and lap enthusiasts benefit most from this model. The dual connectivity means you can switch between Bluetooth for poolside control and MP3 mode for underwater listening. You get 32GB of storage, so you can load hundreds of songs before diving in.
Water sports fans will appreciate the IP68 waterproof rating. Whether you swim in chlorine pools, saltwater oceans, or open water, these headphones handle the environment. The bone conduction design keeps your ears open so you stay aware of your surroundings while moving through the water.
People who dislike traditional earbuds should seriously consider these. The open ear design means nothing sits inside your ear canals. This eliminates the discomfort that comes from standard swimming headphones. Your ears stay dry and comfortable throughout your session.
Fitness enthusiasts doing water aerobics find these headphones ideal. The lightweight frame and secure fit mean they stay put during active movements. You won’t experience fatigue or irritation even during extended water sessions.
However, skip these if you expect crystal clear underwater sound. Bluetooth performance drops when submerged, so your connection weakens underwater. If you rely heavily on Bluetooth connectivity during your swim, this limitation matters. The MP3 mode works better for consistent audio, but you’ll need to pre load your music.
Also consider whether you need Bluetooth functionality outside the water. If you mostly want an MP3 player for swimming and rarely use wireless features, the original OpenSwim might suit you better. That model offers 4GB storage and focuses purely on offline listening.
The control buttons take some getting used to compared to earlier versions. If you frequently adjust volume or skip tracks during workouts, expect a small learning curve. Once you memorize the button locations, navigation becomes second nature.
Final Verdict
The Shokz OpenSwim Pro stands out as a smart pick for anyone who loves music while swimming. It blends offline storage with wireless freedom in one device.
Compared to rivals like the H2O Audio Tri Pro 2 or Finis Swimp3, this model offers a cleaner design without extra ear pieces. That simplicity makes daily use much easier.
Swimmers who train often will appreciate how the device handles long sessions. You won’t need to charge it every single day, thanks to its efficient battery use.
Casual users might find the button placement a bit tricky at first. This is a small learning curve, not a dealbreaker.
If you often swim in open water or pools without phone access, the 32GB storage becomes your best friend. You can build playlists ahead of time and forget about connectivity issues underwater.
For people who split time between gym workouts and swim sets, the dual connectivity feature offers real flexibility. You get Bluetooth on land and MP3 mode in the water, all in one unit.
Compared to the original OpenSwim, this Pro version feels like a natural upgrade. More storage and better connectivity options make it worth considering if you already like the brand.
Athletes who value comfort over premium sound clarity will likely enjoy this product the most. It fits well, stays secure, and doesn’t demand constant adjustments.
Casual swimmers looking for basic tunes during light workouts should also find this a solid choice. It handles simple use cases without any fuss.
Overall, this device works best for people who prioritize function over flash. It won’t impress audiophiles, but it delivers steady performance where it matters most.
If you want a reliable swim companion that just works, the Shokz OpenSwim Pro deserves a spot on your shortlist. It solves real problems for real swimmers, and that’s what counts most.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the OpenSwim Pro for both pool and open water swimming?
Yes, absolutely. The IP68 waterproof rating protects these headphones in pools, oceans, and lakes. You can wear them during lap sessions or open water training without worry. The bone conduction design keeps them secure even when you’re doing flip turns or diving. Just rinse them after saltwater use to keep them in top shape.
How does the dual connectivity actually work?
You get two connection options. Bluetooth lets you stream music from your phone when you’re out of the water or in shallow areas. The 32GB MP3 storage lets you download songs directly onto the headphones for offline listening during deep swims. You can switch between both depending on where you are and what you’re doing. This flexibility means you’re never without music.
Will I hear my music clearly underwater?
Bone conduction works differently than traditional earbuds. Above water, sound quality is fair and enjoyable. Below the surface, Bluetooth performance drops significantly. The MP3 storage option gives you better underwater audio since it doesn’t rely on wireless signals. Your music will still play underwater, but expect the connection to be less reliable than on land.
Are the controls easy to use while swimming?
The control buttons are harder to locate compared to the original OpenSwim model. You’ll need a few practice sessions to find them by touch. Once you get used to their placement, adjusting volume and skipping tracks becomes second nature. Casual swimmers might find this tricky at first, but regular users adapt quickly.
How long does the battery last on a single charge?
You get up to 9 hours of battery life per charge. This covers most swimming sessions and training days. Quick charge capability means you can top up fast between workouts. For swimmers who train daily, this battery performance handles your routine without constant recharging.
Hi, I’m Joy! I’m a passionate tech enthusiast with years of experience testing and reviewing the latest gadgets and software. I started TechReviewed.blog because I believe everyone deserves access to honest, straightforward tech advice without the marketing fluff.
