Shokz has launched its latest bone conduction headphones, the OpenRun Pro 2, designed for workouts & listening while running.

Shokz’s new OpenRun Pro 2 headphones offer a host of significant upgrades while maintaining safety and comfort that open-ear designs are known for.

OpenRun Pro 2: improved audio and comfort for working out

One of the standout features of the OpenRun Pro 2 is Shokz’s new DualPitch technology with two separate drivers. This new dual-driver setup offers one driver for bone conduction and the other for air conduction.

The bone conduction driver transmits sound vibrations through the cheekbones, leaving the ear canals open to external sounds. The air conduction driver, however, is a new addition that focuses on delivering bass frequencies (addressing a common criticism of earlier bone conduction models).

Unlike traditional headphones that often isolate the listener from their environment, the OpenRun Pro 2 aims to balance safety with sound quality. As a result, anyone exercising via running cycling, and so on can stay safe in busy areas.

Furthermore, the dual-driver setup allows for clearer vocals and enhanced bass – reducing the typical trade-offs associated with bone conduction headphones.

The OpenRun Pro 2 retains the familiar wraparound neckband design but with tweaks that promise to improve comfort and fit. The neckband is more flexible and lightweight, making it less intrusive during activities like running or weightlifting.

Shokz’s new headphones should be more comfortable than previous models as the brand has “reduced the clamping force by 16%”. This is especially appealing for users who wear glasses or even engage in extended workout sessions.

Despite these ergonomic improvements, the overall weight of the OpenRun Pro 2 headphones has slightly increased to 30.3 grams (up from from the previous 29 grams).

USB-C charging and battery life

Meanwhile, a major update to the OpenRun Pro 2 is the shift from a proprietary charging system to a universal USB-C port. Now, the new Shokz headphones simplify the charging process and eliminating the need for a specific cable.

The battery life has also seen an extneion to 12 hours up from 10. Additionaly, a five-minute charge provides up to 2.5 hours of listening time for users with busy schedules.

While the OpenRun Pro 2 offers substantial improvements, initial reviews suggest there are still some limitations to consider. For example, the bass response, still doesn’t match that of traditional in-ear headphones despite being better than previous models.

Moreover, the mic quality may not be ideal for making calls in noisy environments even though it’s seen enhancements such as AI noise reduction.

In better news, the OpenRun Pro 2 retains its IP55 rating, protecting against sweat and light rain. It dos however fall short of the IP68 rating seen in some other Shokz models. Consequently, this makes the headphones durable enough for workouts but not for water activities such as swimming.

While they might not replace high-end in-ear buds for audiophiles, the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 boast a significant step forward in bone conduction technology. They promise improved sound quality, enhanced comfort and more practical features like USB-C charging as well as improved battery life.

As a result, they’re the best option currently available for those seeking open-ear headphones fir working out, delivering enough bass and a secure fit.

Price and availability

Priced at $179.95, the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 are available now. Although they’re not super affordable, the price is reasonable for what’s on offer. If you’re looking for a durable pair of earphones for your wokrputs then the Open Run Pro 2 deliver this and do so well.

However, these headphones are not going to deliver pristine audio. If this is what you’re after thend don’t forget to check out some alternatives we’ve reviewed below.