Shokz OpenRun Pro 2: Running Headphones for Those Who Want to Hear Their Surroundings
Headquartered in Shenzhen, China, Shokz has established itself as a leader in the running headphone market, garnering a loyal following among runners in the US and beyond. Their bone conduction technology, which uses vibrations transmitted through the cheekbones rather than sound waves directed into the ear canal, has become their signature feature, catering to those who prioritize situational awareness during their outdoor activities. With the release of the OpenRun Pro 2, Shokz aims to further enhance the comfort and functionality of their flagship bone conduction headphones.
An Evolution in Bone Conduction
The Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 represents a significant leap forward for the company, introducing its proprietary DualPitch technology. This innovative approach utilizes two separate drivers: bone conduction and air conduction, working independently to deliver improved audio quality. The company claims DualPitch results in two key advantages:
- Reduced Vibrations: The separate drivers minimize the intense vibrations often associated with bone conduction headphones, leading to a more comfortable listening experience.
- Enhanced Bass Response: The addition of an air conduction driver helps to compensate for the inherent limitations of bone conduction technology, resulting in a more robust and balanced bass frequency range.
This commitment to refining their signature technology highlights Shokz’s dedication to delivering an immersive and enjoyable listening experience for its users while remaining true to its core principle of ambient awareness.
A Welcome Embrace of the Universal Standard
The OpenRun Pro 2 also embraces a significant shift towards a more user-friendly approach with the adoption of USB Type-C charging. This move away from a proprietary charging port is a welcome change for users, as it eliminates the frustration of searching for and maintaining a dedicated charger. It also aligns with the increasing global push to standardize charging ports, a move championed by the European Union.
Beyond the choice of charging port, the OpenRun Pro 2 boasts further improvements in battery life and speed:
- Improved Battery Life: The Gen 2 OpenRun Pro boasts a 12-hour battery life, surpassing the previous 10-hour performance of its predecessor.
- Quick Charge Functionality: A mere five-minute charge provides an additional hour of listening (reaching a total of 2.5 hours), offering a convenient solution for those in need of a quick boost.
While the overall charging time remains at one hour, the IP55 dust and water resistance rating ensures the headphones can withstand the rigors of outdoor activities.
Refined Comfort and Enhanced Functionality
Shokz reports a 16% reduction in clamping force compared to previous models, promising a more comfortable fit, especially during extended listening sessions. The addition of a gram further increases the total weight to 30g, a negligible change that should remain virtually unnoticeable.
The OpenRun Pro 2 features an upgrade to Bluetooth 5.3, ensuring a more stable and efficient connection for seamless listening. The noise-canceling and wind-resistant microphones leverage AI noise-reduction algorithms to block out background noise effectively, promising clear communication even in windy conditions up to 25 km/h.
A Choice for Runners and Beyond
The Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 is available in two colorways, Black and Orange, catering to various aesthetics. It also comes in two sizes: Standard and Mini, designed to accommodate diverse head sizes, further enhancing the comfort and fit of these headphones.
These updates reflect Shokz’s unwavering focus on maximizing user experience, delivering improved audio performance, enhanced comfort, and practical functionality. The OpenRun Pro 2 serves not just as a reliable companion for runners, but also caters to a broad spectrum of outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize situational awareness and appreciate a comfortable and immersive listening experience. Whether you’re tackling a marathon, exploring new trails, or navigating busy city streets, the OpenRun Pro 2 offers a compelling choice for those seeking a well-rounded solution that prioritizes safety and sound quality.
