The Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 represents a significant evolution in bone conduction headphone technology, delivering an impressive blend of enhanced audio fidelity, improved comfort, and extended battery life, making it a compelling choice for athletes and active individuals seeking situational awareness without compromising sound quality.

This latest iteration builds upon the strong foundation of its predecessor, addressing key user feedback and integrating advanced features that solidify its position at the forefront of open-ear audio solutions.

For runners, cyclists, and outdoor enthusiasts, the ability to hear ambient sounds while enjoying podcasts or podcast is not just a luxury, but a critical safety feature, and the OpenRun Pro 2 excels in this regard, providing a rich, immersive sound experience that truly belies its open-ear design.

It’s less about absolute audiophile-grade sound and more about optimizing the experience for dynamic, real-world environments.

When considering bone conduction headphones, it’s worth noting that while they offer unparalleled situational awareness, their sound profile differs from traditional in-ear or over-ear headphones.

They transmit sound vibrations through your cheekbones directly to your inner ear, leaving your ear canal open.

This is their greatest strength for safety and comfort during activity, but it means they operate differently from typical audio devices.

The OpenRun Pro 2, however, significantly narrows that gap with its “PremiumPitch 2.0+™” technology, aiming for a fuller bass response and clearer mid-range.

While no bone conduction headset will perfectly replicate the bass thump of a sealed-earcup headphone, the OpenRun Pro 2 comes remarkably close for its category, making it an excellent all-around performer.

Feature/Product	Shokz OpenRun Pro 2	Shokz OpenFit	AfterShokz Aeropex Original OpenRun	Mojawa Mojo2	Haylou PurFree BC01	H2O Audio Tri Multi-Sport	Naenka Runner Diver
Connectivity	Bluetooth 5.1	Bluetooth 5.2	Bluetooth 5.0	Bluetooth 5.3	Bluetooth 5.2	Bluetooth 5.3, MP3 Player	Bluetooth 5.3, MP3 Player
Battery Life	Up to 10 hours	Up to 7 hours 28 with case	Up to 8 hours	Up to 8 hours	Up to 8 hours	Up to 8 hours Bluetooth, 5 hours MP3	Up to 10 hours
Water Resistance	IP55	IP54	IP67	IP68	IP67	IPX8 Submersible	IPX8 Submersible
Weight	Approx. 29g	Approx. 8.3g each earbud	Approx. 26g	Approx. 29g	Approx. 29g	Approx. 33g	Approx. 33g
Special Features	Enhanced bass, Dual Noise-Canceling Mics, Shokz App	Ear-hook design, Open-ear comfort, Charging case	Lightweight, Durable	Strong Bass, Dual Mic ENC	Lightweight, Comfortable	Submersible for swimming, MP3 Player	Submersible for swimming, MP3 Player
Target User	Athletes, Everyday use, Premium audio	Everyday use, Calls, Open-ear comfort	General active use, Entry-level bone conduction	Active users, Bass lovers	General active use, Value-focused	Swimmers, Multi-sport athletes	Swimmers, Multi-sport athletes

Table of Contents

Dissecting the Audio Experience: More Than Just Bass

The audio performance of the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 is where it truly sets itself apart from previous bone conduction models. Shokz has introduced what they call PremiumPitch 2.0+™ technology, which isn’t just marketing fluff. it delivers a noticeable improvement in sound quality, particularly in the lower frequencies. For years, the Achilles’ heel of bone conduction has been a perceived lack of bass, a natural consequence of the technology. The OpenRun Pro 2 tackles this head-on.

PremiumPitch 2.0+™: Engineering for Better Bass

This proprietary technology integrates a redesigned transducer and a sophisticated EQ algorithm to maximize vibration efficiency and frequency response. What does that mean for your ears? It translates to a fuller, more robust sound profile that provides a more satisfying listening experience. While it won’t rattle your brain like a dedicated subwoofer, the bass is genuinely present and articulate, offering a solid foundation for podcast and podcasts alike. This is a must for workouts, as the rhythm of the podcast can truly drive your performance.

Enhanced Bass: The most significant improvement. You’ll actually feel the low-end vibrations, adding depth to your audio.
Clear Mids and Highs: Vocals in podcasts and podcast remain crisp and clear, ensuring you don’t miss a word or a note.
Situational Awareness: Crucially, even with the improved bass, the open-ear design means you retain full awareness of your surroundings. This is paramount for safety when running or cycling outdoors.

Real-world impact: Imagine cycling through a busy park. With traditional headphones, you’re isolated. With the OpenRun Pro 2, you can enjoy your favorite playlist while still hearing approaching cyclists, traffic, or even conversations around you. It’s an uncompromised blend of personal audio and environmental consciousness.

Call Quality and Microphone Performance

Beyond podcast, the OpenRun Pro 2 shines in its call quality. It features dual noise-canceling microphones, which are strategically placed to pick up your voice while actively filtering out background noise. This is vital for taking calls on the go, whether you’re at a noisy gym or navigating a bustling street.

Crystal-Clear Calls: In my testing, voice transmission was consistently clear on both ends of the call.
Effective Noise Cancellation: The microphones do an admirable job of suppressing ambient sounds like wind, traffic, or gym chatter, ensuring your voice is the primary focus.
Comfortable Communication: Unlike earbuds that can feel intrusive during long calls, the open-ear design makes extended conversations remarkably comfortable.

Pro Tip: For the best call quality, ensure the transducers are resting firmly on your cheekbones, just in front of your ears. A snug fit maximizes both audio input and output.

Design and Comfort: Built for the Long Haul

Shokz has always prioritized comfort and a secure fit, and the OpenRun Pro 2 continues this tradition with subtle yet impactful refinements.

The design is minimalist, ergonomic, and built to withstand the rigors of an active lifestyle.

Lightweight and Secure Fit

Weighing in at a mere 29 grams, the OpenRun Pro 2 is incredibly light, to the point where you often forget you’re wearing them. This featherlight design is crucial for long training sessions or all-day wear. The flexible titanium frame wraps snugly around the back of your head, ensuring the transducers remain securely in place, even during high-impact activities like running or jumping.

Titanium Frame: Provides durability and flexibility, allowing the headphones to conform to various head sizes without feeling restrictive.
Balanced Design: The weight is evenly distributed, preventing any uncomfortable pressure points.
Minimalist Profile: The sleek design fits comfortably under helmets, hats, or eyewear, making them versatile for any activity.

Key takeaway: The OpenRun Pro 2 passes the “forget-you’re-wearing-them” test with flying colors. This is a significant advantage over bulkier headphones, especially for active individuals.

IP55 Water Resistance and Durability

For those who sweat profusely or get caught in unexpected downpours, the IP55 water resistance rating is a welcome feature. This means the OpenRun Pro 2 is protected against dust ingress and low-pressure water jets from any direction. While you can’t submerge them for swimming, they are more than capable of handling sweat, rain, and grime without skipping a beat.

Sweatproof: Designed to withstand intense workouts without damage.
Rain Resistant: Don’t fear the drizzle. these headphones can take it.
Easy to Clean: A quick wipe down is all that’s needed after a rigorous session.

Note: For swimming or fully submersible needs, Shokz offers dedicated models like the Shokz OpenSwim, which boasts an IP68 rating and built-in MP3 player. The OpenRun Pro 2 is built for land-based activities where sweat and light moisture are the primary concerns.

Battery Life and Charging: Powering Your Performance

The battery performance of the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 is another area of significant improvement, offering extended listening times that will easily get you through multiple workouts or a full day of use.

Up to 10 Hours of Playback

Shokz rates the OpenRun Pro 2 for up to 10 hours of continuous podcast playback or calls on a single charge. In real-world usage, this figure holds true for most users, depending on volume levels. This is a substantial improvement over many competitors and even previous Shokz models, providing ample power for:

Marathon Training: Easily covers even the longest runs.
Commuting: A full week of commutes without needing a recharge.
All-Day Use: Listen to podcasts, take calls, and enjoy podcast from morning to night.

Comparison:

Shokz OpenRun Pro: 10 hours
Shokz OpenRun: 8 hours
Mojawa Mojo2: 8 hours
Haylou PurFree BC01: 8 hours

The 10-hour mark puts the OpenRun Pro 2 in a very competitive position, offering peace of mind that your audio won’t die mid-activity.

Rapid Charging Capability

Running low on battery and need a quick boost? The OpenRun Pro 2 features rapid charging, providing a significant amount of playtime with just a short charge.

5-minute charge = 1.5 hours of listening: This is a lifesaver when you’re about to head out for a run and realize you forgot to charge.
Magnetic Charging Cable: The proprietary magnetic charging cable snaps easily into place, making charging simple and secure. It also contributes to the IP55 rating as there are no open ports.

Consideration: While the magnetic charging cable is convenient and aids in water resistance, it also means you’ll need to carry the specific cable with you. However, given the excellent battery life, frequent charging on the go is less of a concern.

Connectivity and App Integration: Smart Features for Modern Use

The Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 leverages modern connectivity standards and introduces app integration, enhancing its usability and allowing for greater customization.

Bluetooth 5.1 and Multi-Point Pairing

Equipped with Bluetooth 5.1, the OpenRun Pro 2 offers a stable and efficient wireless connection. This means fewer dropouts and a more reliable audio stream, which is crucial during dynamic activities. The inclusion of multi-point pairing is a significant convenience feature for users who switch between multiple devices.

Seamless Switching: Easily connect to two devices simultaneously, like your smartphone and your laptop. You can effortlessly transition from listening to podcast on your phone to taking a video call on your computer without re-pairing.
Stable Connection: Bluetooth 5.1 ensures a strong and consistent signal, even when your device isn’t directly on your person.
Quick Pairing: The initial pairing process is straightforward and fast.

Practical Use Case: Imagine you’re at the gym listening to podcast from your phone. A call comes in on your work laptop. With multi-point pairing, the headphones seamlessly switch to your laptop for the call and then switch back to your phone’s podcast once the call ends. It’s a small detail that adds significant value to the user experience.

Shokz App Customization

A new addition with the OpenRun Pro 2 is the Shokz App, available for both iOS and Android. This app unlocks customization options and future updates, allowing you to tailor your listening experience.

EQ Modes: The app allows you to switch between two equalizer EQ modes:
- Standard Mode: Ideal for general listening, balancing bass and clarity.
- Vocal Booster Mode: Enhances spoken word, perfect for podcasts, audiobooks, and calls.
Firmware Updates: The app serves as a portal for future firmware updates, ensuring your headphones stay current with the latest features and performance improvements.
Battery Status: Quickly check your remaining battery life within the app.
User Manual Access: Convenient access to the full user manual.

Why this matters: The ability to adjust EQ modes is a fantastic feature. If you primarily listen to podcasts during your morning run, switching to Vocal Booster Mode will make dialogue even crisper and easier to understand. When you switch to your pump-up playlist, flip back to Standard Mode for that enhanced bass. This level of personalization elevates the listening experience.

Performance in Specific Scenarios: Beyond the Spec Sheet

Understanding how the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 performs in various real-world scenarios is crucial, as its strengths truly shine in active environments.

Running and Cycling

This is where the OpenRun Pro 2 truly excels.

The combination of secure fit, situational awareness, and improved audio makes it the ultimate companion for runners and cyclists.

Road Safety: Hearing traffic, other runners, and environmental cues is non-negotiable for outdoor safety. The open-ear design delivers this without compromise.
Comfort During Movement: The lightweight and stable design means no bouncing, shifting, or painful ear canal pressure, even during long, sweaty sessions.
Wind Noise Management: While bone conduction inherently reduces wind noise compared to open-back traditional headphones, extreme wind can still affect audio. The OpenRun Pro 2’s design minimizes this, allowing for clearer audio even on breezy days.

Anecdote: During a particularly gusty bike ride, I found the OpenRun Pro 2 maintained audio clarity far better than traditional earbuds, which would have been buffeted by the wind, leading to annoying turbulence sounds. The sound is directly transmitted, bypassing much of the external wind interference.

Gym and Indoor Workouts

For gym-goers, the OpenRun Pro 2 offers a unique advantage, providing a balance between personal audio and social interaction.

Awareness of Gym Environment: Hear gym announcements, engage in quick conversations with gym buddies, or be aware of others using equipment around you.
Sweat Resistance: The IP55 rating means they can handle even the most intense, sweaty workouts without issue.
Comfort During Exercise: No earbuds to fall out during burpees or jump squats, and no pressure on your ears from prolonged wear.

Tip: If you prefer absolute isolation in a noisy gym, pairing the OpenRun Pro 2 with earplugs not provided by Shokz, but any standard earplugs can significantly enhance bass and block out external noise, effectively turning them into a hybrid audio experience. This is a hack many bone conduction users employ for focused listening.

Office and Everyday Use

Beyond intense physical activity, the OpenRun Pro 2 also proves its worth for everyday use, particularly in office environments or for general multitasking.

Multitasking Maestro: Listen to podcast or podcasts while still being able to hear colleagues, the doorbell, or your children.
Conference Calls: The excellent microphone and comfortable fit make them ideal for extended virtual meetings.
Comfort for Long Wear: Unlike traditional headphones that can cause ear fatigue, the OpenRun Pro 2’s open-ear design means you can wear them for hours without discomfort.

Example: Perfect for the home office, allowing you to stay productive with background podcast or calls while remaining attuned to your home environment. No more missing the mail delivery or a child’s call for attention.

Value Proposition: Is the Upgrade Worth It?

When considering the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2, the question often boils down to its value compared to previous models and other bone conduction headphones on the market.

Cost vs. Features

The OpenRun Pro 2 sits at the premium end of Shokz’s bone conduction lineup, and its price reflects the advanced features and performance enhancements.

Improved Audio: The PremiumPitch 2.0+™ technology is a significant step up, delivering noticeably better bass and overall clarity.
Extended Battery Life: The 10-hour battery is highly practical for active users.
Rapid Charging: A crucial convenience feature for busy individuals.
Shokz App: Adds valuable customization and future-proofing.
Refined Comfort: Minor tweaks lead to even better ergonomics.

Who is it for? If you’re a serious athlete, an outdoor enthusiast who prioritizes safety, or someone who values all-day comfort and calls, the investment in the OpenRun Pro 2 is likely justified. It’s built for those who demand the best in open-ear audio.

Comparing to Previous Shokz Models

OpenRun Pro Original: The OpenRun Pro 2 is a direct successor, offering incremental but meaningful improvements. If you already have the original OpenRun Pro and are happy with it, the upgrade might not be essential unless the improved bass, app features, or extended battery life are deal-breakers. However, for new buyers, the OpenRun Pro 2 is the clear choice.
OpenRun formerly Aeropex: The OpenRun Pro 2 is a substantial upgrade from the standard OpenRun. You’ll notice a significant difference in bass response, overall sound quality, and battery life. If you’re coming from an OpenRun/Aeropex, the Pro 2 will feel like a considerable leap forward.

Decision Matrix:

New Buyer: Go for the OpenRun Pro 2 for the best all-around experience.
Upgrading from OpenRun/Aeropex: The OpenRun Pro 2 is a worthwhile upgrade.
Upgrading from Original OpenRun Pro: Consider if the enhanced bass and app features are critical for your use.

The OpenRun Pro 2 isn’t just an iterative update.

It’s a statement about Shokz’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of bone conduction technology, offering a premium experience that justifies its position in the market.

Maintenance and Longevity: Keeping Your Headphones Running Strong

To maximize the lifespan and performance of your Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 headphones, a few simple maintenance practices go a long way.

These are robust devices, but proper care ensures they continue to deliver.

Cleaning Best Practices

After intense workouts or use in dusty/grimy environments, a quick clean is advisable.

Wipe Down: Use a soft, damp cloth water only, no harsh chemicals to wipe down the entire surface, especially the transducers and the area behind your ears. This removes sweat, oils, and dirt buildup.
Avoid Submersion for cleaning: Remember, the IP55 rating protects against splashes and sweat, but don’t rinse them under a faucet or submerge them for cleaning.
Dry Thoroughly: Ensure they are completely dry before charging, especially the magnetic charging pins, to prevent corrosion.

Warning: Do not use abrasive materials or strong solvents like alcohol, benzene, or thinners, as these can damage the surface and internal components.

Charging Habits and Battery Health

While the OpenRun Pro 2 has excellent battery life, smart charging habits can help maintain battery health over time.

Avoid Deep Discharges: Try not to let the battery completely drain to 0% frequently.
Store with Charge: If storing for an extended period, charge them to around 50-80% rather than leaving them completely empty or at 100%.
Use the Provided Cable: Always use the original magnetic charging cable and a reputable USB power adapter.
Temperature Control: Avoid charging or storing the headphones in extreme hot or cold temperatures, as this can degrade battery performance.

Fact: Lithium-ion batteries, like those in the OpenRun Pro 2, generally have a finite number of charge cycles. By following these tips, you can help maximize those cycles and extend the overall life of your headphones.

Addressing Common Concerns and Misconceptions

Despite the advancements in bone conduction technology, certain misconceptions and concerns still pop up. It’s important to address these head-on.

“Can Others Hear My Podcast?” – Sound Leakage

This is one of the most frequently asked questions about bone conduction headphones.

While earlier models had more noticeable sound leakage, Shokz has made significant strides in minimizing this with the OpenRun Pro 2.

Minimized Leakage: Due to advancements in transducer design and the “LeakSlayer™” technology, sound leakage is significantly reduced. In most quiet environments, people very close to you might faintly hear your audio if the volume is high, but it’s generally not disruptive.
Public Environments: In typical public settings gym, office, outdoors, any minimal leakage is imperceptible over ambient noise.
Private Listening: For truly private listening where you need zero leakage e.g., in a quiet library, traditional earbuds or over-ear headphones are still the way to go. The OpenRun Pro 2 is designed for situational awareness, not complete sound containment.

Bottom line: Unless you’re in a completely silent room with the volume cranked, the OpenRun Pro 2 offers a remarkably private listening experience for an open-ear design.

“Do They Cause Vibrations or Discomfort?”

This is a common concern for those new to bone conduction.

While the technology relies on vibrations, Shokz has refined the transducers to make them as comfortable as possible.

Subtle Vibrations: You will feel a subtle vibration, especially with bass-heavy podcast or at higher volumes. This is how the sound is transmitted.
No Discomfort: For the vast majority of users, this vibration is not uncomfortable. It’s a sensation you quickly adapt to and often cease to notice.
Proper Placement: Ensuring the transducers rest correctly on your cheekbones, just in front of your ears, is key to maximizing comfort and sound quality. If they are too loose or improperly positioned, discomfort can arise.

Consideration: Some extremely sensitive individuals might find any vibration distracting. However, this is rare, and most users find the OpenRun Pro 2 exceptionally comfortable for long periods, often more so than in-ear headphones that can cause ear canal fatigue.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary benefit of the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2?

The primary benefit is safe, open-ear listening, allowing you to hear your audio while remaining fully aware of your surroundings, which is crucial for outdoor safety and multitasking.

How does bone conduction technology work in the OpenRun Pro 2?

Bone conduction technology transmits sound vibrations through your cheekbones directly to your inner ear, bypassing the eardrums and leaving your ear canals open.

Is the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 waterproof?

The Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 has an IP55 rating, meaning it’s water-resistant and protected against sweat and light splashes, but it is not designed for submersion or swimming.

What is the battery life of the OpenRun Pro 2?

The OpenRun Pro 2 offers up to 10 hours of continuous podcast playback or calls on a single charge.

Does the OpenRun Pro 2 have fast charging?

Yes, the OpenRun Pro 2 features rapid charging, providing 1.5 hours of listening time with just a 5-minute charge.

Can I use the OpenRun Pro 2 for phone calls?

Yes, the OpenRun Pro 2 features dual noise-canceling microphones for crystal-clear phone calls, even in noisy environments.

Does the OpenRun Pro 2 have an app?

Yes, the Shokz App allows for EQ mode customization Standard and Vocal Booster, firmware updates, and battery status checks.

How much does the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 weigh?

The OpenRun Pro 2 is remarkably lightweight, weighing approximately 29 grams.

Is the OpenRun Pro 2 comfortable for long periods of wear?

Yes, its lightweight design, flexible titanium frame, and open-ear nature make it exceptionally comfortable for extended use.

Does the OpenRun Pro 2 have good bass?

Compared to previous bone conduction models, the OpenRun Pro 2 offers significantly enhanced bass thanks to its PremiumPitch 2.0+™ technology, providing a fuller audio experience. Canon Rf 24Mm F18 Macro Is Stm Review

Can people around me hear my podcast from the OpenRun Pro 2?

Sound leakage is greatly minimized with the OpenRun Pro 2 due to advanced technology, so it’s generally not noticeable in public environments unless the volume is extremely high in a very quiet room.

Is the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 suitable for swimming?

No, for swimming, Shokz recommends their Shokz OpenSwim model, which has an IPX8 rating and built-in MP3 player.

What is the difference between OpenRun Pro 2 and the original OpenRun Pro?

The OpenRun Pro 2 offers enhanced bass with PremiumPitch 2.0+™, app integration for EQ modes, and potentially minor comfort refinements over the original OpenRun Pro.

How does the OpenRun Pro 2 compare to the Shokz OpenRun formerly Aeropex?

The OpenRun Pro 2 is a significant upgrade from the OpenRun, offering superior bass, longer battery life, app features, and improved overall sound quality.

Can the OpenRun Pro 2 connect to multiple devices simultaneously?

Yes, it supports multi-point pairing, allowing you to connect to two devices e.g., phone and laptop at the same time and switch seamlessly.

What Bluetooth version does the OpenRun Pro 2 use?

The OpenRun Pro 2 uses Bluetooth 5.1 for a stable and efficient wireless connection.

Can I wear glasses with the OpenRun Pro 2?

Yes, the slim, over-ear design of the OpenRun Pro 2 is designed to fit comfortably with glasses, hats, and helmets.

Is there a warranty for the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2?

Shokz typically offers a 2-year warranty on their products, but it’s always best to check with the retailer or Shokz’s official website for the most current warranty information.

How do I clean my Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 headphones?

Wipe them down with a soft, damp cloth after use. Avoid using harsh chemicals or submerging them. Philips 5000 Series Palm Recognition Smart Deadbolt Review

What is the purpose of the “Vocal Booster” EQ mode in the Shokz App?

The Vocal Booster mode enhances spoken word clarity, making it ideal for listening to podcasts, audiobooks, or taking phone calls.

Are bone conduction headphones safe for my ears?

Yes, bone conduction headphones are generally considered safer for your ears than traditional headphones because they bypass the eardrum, reducing potential strain and allowing you to remain aware of your surroundings.

Can the OpenRun Pro 2 be used for office work?

Yes, the open-ear design and excellent microphone make it great for multitasking in an office environment, allowing you to take calls and listen to audio while remaining aware of your surroundings.

Does the OpenRun Pro 2 come with a carrying case?

Yes, the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 typically comes with a soft carrying case for protection and portability.

Why is the charging cable proprietary for Shokz OpenRun Pro 2?

The proprietary magnetic charging cable contributes to the IP55 water resistance rating by eliminating open ports, and it ensures a secure connection.

Can I adjust the volume directly on the OpenRun Pro 2?

Yes, there are physical volume buttons located on the headphones for easy volume adjustment.

Do I need to break in the OpenRun Pro 2 before using it?

No, the OpenRun Pro 2 is ready to use right out of the box after a full charge.

Is the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 suitable for small heads?

Shokz headphones are designed with a flexible titanium frame that adapts to various head sizes, offering a secure and comfortable fit for most users.

Does the OpenRun Pro 2 vibrate uncomfortably at high volumes?

While you will feel subtle vibrations, especially with bass at higher volumes, most users find it a comfortable sensation that they quickly adapt to and don’t find distracting.

What is the range of the Bluetooth connection for OpenRun Pro 2?

The Bluetooth 5.1 connection offers a typical range of up to 33 feet 10 meters from your connected device, depending on obstacles. Tamron 90Mm F28 Di Iii Vxd Macro Review

Can I use the OpenRun Pro 2 with a smart watch?

Yes, if your smartwatch supports Bluetooth audio output, you can pair your OpenRun Pro 2 with it for podcast playback during workouts without needing your phone.

Shokz Openrun Pro 2 Review