Explore the best bone conduction headphones designed specifically for runners, ensuring comfort and durability.
Running with music can be an incredibly motivating experience, but traditional headphones can feel bulky and uncomfortable, especially during intense workouts. That’s where bone conduction headphones come in. These innovative headphones transmit sound vibrations through your cheekbones, leaving your ear canals open for situational awareness. This allows you to enjoy your music while still being aware of your surroundings, making them ideal for runners who prioritize safety.
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In this comprehensive guide, we’ve compiled a list of the 16 best bone conduction headphones specifically designed for running. We’ve considered factors like sound quality, comfort, water resistance, and battery life to ensure that you find the perfect pair for your needs. Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or a casual jogger, we’ve got you covered.
We’ll take a deep dive into each headphone’s unique features and specifications, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision. We’ll also provide insights on choosing the right bone conduction headphones based on your individual preferences and budget.
Ready to find the perfect soundtrack for your next run? Let’s get started!
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Item | Image | Where to buy | Rating | Read More | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Shokz OpenRun Pro | ![]() |
N/A | Jump to Review | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Shokz OpenRun | ![]() |
4.6 out of 5 stars | Jump to Review | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Shokz OpenComm | ![]() |
4.5 out of 5 stars | Jump to Review | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Shokz OpenMove | ![]() |
4.4 out of 5 stars | Jump to Review | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
AfterShokz Xtrainerz | ![]() |
4.3 out of 5 stars | Jump to Review | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Shokz OpenSwim | ![]() |
4.3 out of 5 stars | Jump to Review | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Shokz OpenRun Mini | ![]() |
4.6 out of 5 stars | Jump to Review | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
AfterShokz Air | ![]() |
4.6 out of 5 stars | Jump to Review | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Shokz OpenClip | ![]() |
N/A | Jump to Review | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
AfterShokz Bluez 2s | ![]() |
4.6 out of 5 stars | Jump to Review | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Shokz OpenRun Pro
High-end bone conduction headphones with excellent sound quality, a comfortable fit, and a long battery life.
Specifications :
- Sound: 8 hours of playtime
- Water resistance: IP67 (waterproof)
- Weight: 33g
Reasons to buy :
- Excellent sound quality for bone conduction headphones
- Comfortable and secure fit
- Long battery life
- IP67 water resistance
Reasons to avoid :
- Expensive
- Not as good for bass-heavy music
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You're looking for the best possible sound quality from bone conduction headphones
- You need a comfortable and secure fit for running and working out
- You want a long battery life
- You need a waterproof headphone
Don't buy it if:
- You're on a tight budget
- You primarily listen to bass-heavy music
Bottom Line:
The Shokz OpenRun Pro is a great choice for runners and athletes who want the best possible sound quality from bone conduction headphones. They're comfortable, secure, and offer a long battery life. However, they're also expensive and not as good for bass-heavy music. If you're looking for a more affordable option, the Shokz OpenRun or Aftershokz Aeropex are good alternatives.
Shokz OpenRun
A great all-around bone conduction headphone with a comfortable fit, good sound quality, and a long battery life.
Specifications :
- Sound: 8 hours of playtime
- Water resistance: IP67 (waterproof)
- Weight: 29g
Reasons to buy :
- Comfortable and secure fit
- Good sound quality for bone conduction headphones
- Long battery life
- IP67 water resistance
- Affordable
Reasons to avoid :
- Not as good for bass-heavy music
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You're looking for a comfortable and secure fit for running and working out
- You want a long battery life
- You need a waterproof headphone
- You're on a budget
Don't buy it if:
- You primarily listen to bass-heavy music
- You need the best possible sound quality
Bottom Line:
The Shokz OpenRun is a great value for money, offering a comfortable fit, good sound quality, and a long battery life. They're also waterproof, making them a good choice for runners and athletes. However, they're not as good for bass-heavy music as some of the other headphones on this list. If you're looking for the best possible sound quality, the Shokz OpenRun Pro is a better choice.
Aftershokz Aeropex
A popular choice for runners and athletes, the Aftershokz Aeropex offers a comfortable fit, good sound quality, and a long battery life.
Specifications :
- Sound: 8 hours of playtime
- Water resistance: IP67 (waterproof)
- Weight: 26g
Reasons to buy :
- Comfortable and secure fit
- Good sound quality for bone conduction headphones
- Long battery life
- IP67 water resistance
- Affordable
Reasons to avoid :
- Not as good for bass-heavy music
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You're looking for a comfortable and secure fit for running and working out
- You want a long battery life
- You need a waterproof headphone
- You're on a budget
Don't buy it if:
- You primarily listen to bass-heavy music
- You need the best possible sound quality
Bottom Line:
The Aftershokz Aeropex is a great choice for runners and athletes who want a comfortable and secure fit, good sound quality, and a long battery life. They're also waterproof, making them a good choice for working out in all weather conditions. However, they're not as good for bass-heavy music as some of the other headphones on this list. If you're looking for the best possible sound quality, the Shokz OpenRun Pro is a better choice.
Shokz OpenComm
A great option for those who want a bone conduction headset for making calls and listening to music.
Specifications :
- Sound: 6 hours of playtime
- Water resistance: IP55 (splash-proof)
- Weight: 33g
Reasons to buy :
- Great for making calls
- Good sound quality for bone conduction headphones
- Comfortable and secure fit
- Long battery life
- Affordable
Reasons to avoid :
- Not as good for bass-heavy music
- Not as waterproof as some other options
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You need a bone conduction headset for making calls
- You want a comfortable and secure fit
- You want a long battery life
- You're on a budget
Don't buy it if:
- You primarily listen to bass-heavy music
- You need a fully waterproof headphone
Bottom Line:
The Shokz OpenComm is a great choice for those who want a bone conduction headset for making calls and listening to music. They offer a comfortable fit, good sound quality, and a long battery life. However, they're not as good for bass-heavy music as some of the other headphones on this list. If you need a fully waterproof headphone, the Shokz OpenRun or Aftershokz Aeropex are better options.
Shokz OpenMove
A budget-friendly bone conduction headphone with a comfortable fit and decent sound quality.
Specifications :
- Sound: 6 hours of playtime
- Water resistance: IP67 (waterproof)
- Weight: 29g
Reasons to buy :
- Affordable
- Comfortable and secure fit
- Good sound quality for the price
- IP67 water resistance
Reasons to avoid :
- Not as good for bass-heavy music
- Not as long a battery life as some other options
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You're on a tight budget
- You want a comfortable and secure fit for running and working out
- You need a waterproof headphone
Don't buy it if:
- You primarily listen to bass-heavy music
- You need the best possible sound quality
- You need a long battery life
Bottom Line:
The Shokz OpenMove is a great budget-friendly option for those who are new to bone conduction headphones. They offer a comfortable fit, decent sound quality, and a waterproof design. However, they're not as good for bass-heavy music as some of the other headphones on this list. If you're looking for the best possible sound quality, the Shokz OpenRun Pro is a better choice.
Aftershokz Xtrainerz
A great option for swimmers and athletes who want a waterproof bone conduction headphone.
Specifications :
- Sound: 8 hours of playtime
- Water resistance: IP68 (waterproof)
- Weight: 31g
Reasons to buy :
- IP68 waterproof rating
- Comfortable and secure fit
- Good sound quality for bone conduction headphones
- Long battery life
- Affordable
Reasons to avoid :
- Not as good for bass-heavy music
- Not as stylish as some other options
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You need a waterproof bone conduction headphone
- You're a swimmer or athlete
- You want a comfortable and secure fit
- You want a long battery life
Don't buy it if:
- You primarily listen to bass-heavy music
- You want the best possible sound quality
- You want a stylish headphone
Bottom Line:
The Aftershokz Xtrainerz is a great choice for swimmers and athletes who need a waterproof bone conduction headphone. They offer a comfortable fit, good sound quality, and a long battery life. However, they're not as good for bass-heavy music as some of the other headphones on this list. If you're looking for a more stylish headphone, the Shokz OpenRun Pro or Aftershokz Aeropex are better options.
Shokz OpenSwim
A bone conduction headphone designed specifically for swimming.
Specifications :
- Sound: 8 hours of playtime
- Water resistance: IP68 (waterproof)
- Weight: 31g
Reasons to buy :
- IP68 waterproof rating
- Comfortable and secure fit
- Good sound quality for bone conduction headphones
- Long battery life
Reasons to avoid :
- Not as good for bass-heavy music
- Expensive
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You need a bone conduction headphone for swimming
- You want a comfortable and secure fit
- You want a long battery life
Don't buy it if:
- You primarily listen to bass-heavy music
- You're on a tight budget
Bottom Line:
The Shokz OpenSwim is a great choice for swimmers who want a comfortable and secure fit, good sound quality, and a long battery life. However, they're not as good for bass-heavy music as some of the other headphones on this list. If you're looking for a more affordable option, the Aftershokz Xtrainerz is a good alternative.
Shokz OpenRun Mini
A smaller and lighter version of the Shokz OpenRun, the Shokz OpenRun Mini is a great choice for those with smaller ears.
Specifications :
- Sound: 8 hours of playtime
- Water resistance: IP67 (waterproof)
- Weight: 24g
Reasons to buy :
- Smaller and lighter than the Shokz OpenRun
- Comfortable and secure fit
- Good sound quality for bone conduction headphones
- Long battery life
- IP67 water resistance
- Affordable
Reasons to avoid :
- Not as good for bass-heavy music
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You have smaller ears
- You're looking for a comfortable and secure fit for running and working out
- You want a long battery life
- You need a waterproof headphone
- You're on a budget
Don't buy it if:
- You primarily listen to bass-heavy music
Bottom Line:
The Shokz OpenRun Mini is a great choice for those with smaller ears who are looking for a comfortable and secure fit, good sound quality, and a long battery life. They're also waterproof, making them a good choice for runners and athletes. However, they're not as good for bass-heavy music as some of the other headphones on this list.
Aftershokz Air
A great budget-friendly option for those who want a comfortable and secure fit, and good sound quality.
Specifications :
- Sound: 6 hours of playtime
- Water resistance: IP67 (waterproof)
- Weight: 26g
Reasons to buy :
- Affordable
- Comfortable and secure fit
- Good sound quality for bone conduction headphones
- IP67 water resistance
Reasons to avoid :
- Not as good for bass-heavy music
- Not as long a battery life as some other options
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You're on a tight budget
- You want a comfortable and secure fit for running and working out
- You need a waterproof headphone
Don't buy it if:
- You primarily listen to bass-heavy music
- You need the best possible sound quality
- You need a long battery life
Bottom Line:
The Aftershokz Air is a great budget-friendly option for those who are new to bone conduction headphones. They offer a comfortable fit, decent sound quality, and a waterproof design. However, they're not as good for bass-heavy music as some of the other headphones on this list. If you're looking for the best possible sound quality, the Shokz OpenRun Pro is a better choice.
Shokz OpenClip
A small and lightweight bone conduction headphone that's perfect for taking calls on the go.
Specifications :
- Sound: 5 hours of playtime
- Water resistance: IP55 (splash-proof)
- Weight: 18g
Reasons to buy :
- Small and lightweight
- Great for taking calls
- Good sound quality for bone conduction headphones
- Affordable
Reasons to avoid :
- Not as good for listening to music
- Not as waterproof as some other options
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You need a small and lightweight bone conduction headphone for taking calls
- You're on a budget
- You want a comfortable and secure fit
Don't buy it if:
- You primarily listen to music
- You need a fully waterproof headphone
Bottom Line:
The Shokz OpenClip is a great choice for those who need a small and lightweight bone conduction headphone for taking calls. They offer a comfortable fit, good sound quality, and are affordable. However, they're not as good for listening to music as some of the other headphones on this list. If you need a fully waterproof headphone, the Shokz OpenRun or Aftershokz Aeropex are better options.
Shokz OpenComm
OpenComm is a bone conduction headset designed for clear communication and situational awareness. This headset offers a comfortable fit and a secure fit, making it ideal for various activities, including running, cycling, and working out.
Specifications:
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0
- Battery life: Up to 16 hours of talk time, 8 hours of music playtime
- Water resistance: IP55
- Weight: 1.4 ounces
Reasons to buy:
- Comfortable fit
- Secure fit
- Clear audio quality for calls
- Good battery life
Reasons to avoid:
- Not ideal for listening to music at high volumes
- Some users may find the bone conduction technology to produce a less immersive sound experience than traditional headphones
What you need to know:
Buy it if:
- You're looking for a headset for clear communication and situational awareness during activities like running, cycling, or working out.
- You prioritize a secure and comfortable fit.
- You need long battery life.
Don't buy it if:
- You want a headset for listening to music at high volumes.
- You are looking for a headphone that offers a highly immersive sound experience.
Bottom Line:
The Shokz OpenComm is a great option for anyone looking for a headset designed for clear communication and situational awareness. This headset offers a comfortable fit, secure fit, and good battery life. However, if you are looking for a headphone for listening to music at high volumes or a highly immersive sound experience, you may want to consider another option. The Shokz OpenComm is a good option for those who value clear communication and a comfortable fit over the ability to listen to music at high volumes.
Aftershokz Trekz Titanium
The Trekz Titanium is a popular bone conduction headphone known for its comfortable fit, open-ear design, and long battery life. This headphone is a great option for runners, cyclists, and anyone looking for a headset that allows them to stay aware of their surroundings.
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Specifications:
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 4.1
- Battery life: Up to 6 hours
- Water resistance: IP55
- Weight: 1.1 ounces
Reasons to buy:
- Comfortable fit
- Secure fit
- Long battery life
- Open-ear design allows for situational awareness
Reasons to avoid:
- Not ideal for listening to music at high volumes
- Some users may find the bone conduction technology to produce a less immersive sound experience than traditional headphones
What you need to know:
Buy it if:
- You're looking for a headset for open-ear listening while running, cycling, or working out.
- You prioritize a secure and comfortable fit.
- You need long battery life.
Don't buy it if:
- You want a headset for listening to music at high volumes.
- You are looking for a headphone that offers a highly immersive sound experience.
Bottom Line:
The Aftershokz Trekz Titanium is a great option for anyone looking for a headset for open-ear listening while running, cycling, or working out. It offers a comfortable fit, secure fit, and long battery life, making it a good option for those who value these features over the ability to listen to music at high volumes. It provides a balance of open-ear awareness and sound quality, making it a solid choice for active individuals who want to stay aware of their surroundings while enjoying music or calls.
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Aftershokz Trekz Air
The Trekz Air is a lightweight and stylish bone conduction headphone designed for active lifestyles. The Air features a sleek design and an open-ear fit that allows users to stay aware of their surroundings.
Specifications:
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 4.2
- Battery life: Up to 6 hours
- Water resistance: IP55
- Weight: 0.9 ounces
Reasons to buy:
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Sleek design
- Open-ear design allows for situational awareness
- Secure fit
Reasons to avoid:
- Not ideal for listening to music at high volumes
- Some users may find the bone conduction technology to produce a less immersive sound experience than traditional headphones
What you need to know:
Buy it if:
- You're looking for a lightweight and stylish headset for open-ear listening.
- You prioritize a comfortable and secure fit.
- You need a headset that allows you to stay aware of your surroundings.
Don't buy it if:
- You want a headset for listening to music at high volumes.
- You are looking for a headphone that offers a highly immersive sound experience.
Bottom Line:
The Aftershokz Trekz Air is an excellent option for those seeking a lightweight and stylish bone conduction headphone for open-ear listening. Its comfortable fit and sleek design make it a good choice for runners, cyclists, and anyone looking to stay aware of their surroundings while enjoying music or calls. While the Trekz Air may not be ideal for listening to music at high volumes or those seeking a highly immersive sound experience, it excels in providing an open-ear listening experience for active individuals.
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Aftershokz Bluez 2s
The Bluez 2s is a compact and lightweight bone conduction headphone designed for comfort and convenience. This headphone is a great option for everyday use, whether you are working out, running errands, or just listening to music at home.
Specifications:
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 4.1
- Battery life: Up to 6 hours
- Water resistance: IP55
- Weight: 1.0 ounces
Reasons to buy:
- Comfortable fit
- Secure fit
- Lightweight and compact
- Open-ear design allows for situational awareness
Reasons to avoid:
- Not ideal for listening to music at high volumes
- Some users may find the bone conduction technology to produce a less immersive sound experience than traditional headphones
What you need to know:
Buy it if:
- You're looking for a comfortable and lightweight headset for everyday use.
- You prioritize a secure and comfortable fit.
- You need a headset that allows you to stay aware of your surroundings.
Don't buy it if:
- You want a headset for listening to music at high volumes.
- You are looking for a headphone that offers a highly immersive sound experience.
Bottom Line:
The Aftershokz Bluez 2s is a solid choice for those who value comfort, convenience, and open-ear listening. It's lightweight, compact, and offers a comfortable fit, making it a good option for everyday use, whether you are working out, running errands, or just listening to music at home. While not ideal for listening to music at high volumes or those seeking a highly immersive sound experience, the Bluez 2s excels at providing an open-ear listening experience for active individuals and those who prioritize comfort and convenience.
Aftershokz Bluez
The Bluez is a budget-friendly bone conduction headphone that offers a comfortable fit and an open-ear design. This headphone is a great option for those looking for an affordable way to experience the benefits of bone conduction technology.
Specifications:
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 4.1
- Battery life: Up to 6 hours
- Water resistance: IP55
- Weight: 1.1 ounces
Reasons to buy:
- Affordable price
- Comfortable fit
- Secure fit
- Open-ear design allows for situational awareness
Reasons to avoid:
- Not ideal for listening to music at high volumes
- Some users may find the bone conduction technology to produce a less immersive sound experience than traditional headphones
What you need to know:
Buy it if:
- You're looking for an affordable bone conduction headphone.
- You prioritize a comfortable and secure fit.
- You need a headset that allows you to stay aware of your surroundings.
Don't buy it if:
- You want a headset for listening to music at high volumes.
- You are looking for a headphone that offers a highly immersive sound experience.
Bottom Line:
The Aftershokz Bluez is a great option for budget-minded individuals looking for an introduction to bone conduction technology. It offers a comfortable fit, secure fit, and open-ear design at an affordable price. While not ideal for listening to music at high volumes or those seeking a highly immersive sound experience, the Bluez is a good choice for those who value affordability, comfort, and open-ear listening.
Aftershokz Trekz
The Trekz is a classic bone conduction headphone that has been a popular choice for runners and cyclists for years. This headphone is known for its comfortable fit, secure fit, and long battery life.
Specifications:
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 3.0
- Battery life: Up to 6 hours
- Water resistance: IP55
- Weight: 1.2 ounces
Reasons to buy:
- Comfortable fit
- Secure fit
- Long battery life
- Open-ear design allows for situational awareness
Reasons to avoid:
- Not ideal for listening to music at high volumes
- Some users may find the bone conduction technology to produce a less immersive sound experience than traditional headphones
What you need to know:
Buy it if:
- You're looking for a classic bone conduction headphone for open-ear listening.
- You prioritize a comfortable and secure fit.
- You need long battery life.
Don't buy it if:
- You want a headset for listening to music at high volumes.
- You are looking for a headphone that offers a highly immersive sound experience.
Bottom Line:
The Aftershokz Trekz is a classic bone conduction headphone that has been a popular choice for runners and cyclists for years. It offers a comfortable fit, secure fit, and long battery life, making it a solid choice for those who value these features over the ability to listen to music at high volumes. However, if you are looking for a headphone for listening to music at high volumes or a highly immersive sound experience, you may want to consider another option. While the Trekz may not be the most cutting-edge option, it continues to be a reliable choice for those who prioritize open-ear awareness, comfort, and battery life.
Choosing the right bone conduction headphones for running can significantly enhance your workout experience. With the wide variety of options available, it's crucial to consider factors like sound quality, fit, and price to find the perfect pair for your needs. Whether you're a seasoned marathoner or just starting your fitness journey, bone conduction technology offers a unique way to enjoy your favorite tunes while staying aware of your surroundings.
Investing in a quality pair of bone conduction headphones can provide numerous benefits for runners. Not only do they allow you to listen to music or podcasts without blocking out ambient noises, but they also offer a more comfortable and secure fit compared to traditional earbuds. This ensures your headphones stay in place even during intense workouts, while the open-ear design allows you to hear your surroundings, making you more aware of your environment.
Ultimately, the best bone conduction headphones for running are the ones that meet your specific needs and preferences. Consider your budget, desired features, and personal comfort level when making your decision. With the right pair of headphones, you can elevate your running experience, stay motivated, and enjoy every step of your journey.
So, explore the options presented in this guide, read reviews, and choose the bone conduction headphones that best suit your running style. Get ready to hit the ground running with a soundtrack that fuels your every stride.