The Shokz OpenSwim Pro headphones are built for people who want audio on the go without shutting out the world around them. As someone who works professionally in audio, I approached these with a healthy dose of curiosity—and a critical ear.
These are among the most comfortable bone conduction headphones I’ve used. They’re lightweight, easy to position correctly, and stay put. I only started noticing some squeezing pressure after about three hours of use, and even then, it wasn’t painful—just noticeable. They’re clearly designed with long-term wear in mind.
The tactile buttons are easy to find and use, even without looking and the magnetic charger snaps into place cleanly and charges without fuss. It’s a thoughtful, user-friendly design all around; although something less proprietary (say, USB-C) would be great it also has the potential to complicate design and the IP rating.
One of the standout features of the OpenSwim Pro is its full waterproof capability. These headphones can be completely submerged, making them ideal for swimming, showering, or even soaking in the bath. You don’t have to worry about splashes, rain, or total immersion—these are built to handle it all without breaking a sweat (or frying a circuit).
Now, let’s talk sound. Bone conduction headphones will never be an audiophile’s dream, but for what they are, the OpenSwim Pro sounds very good. The frequency response is balanced enough that I quickly adjusted to the sound profile. It’s not distracting, even when I’m moving around or multitasking. Bass can cause a tickling vibration on the skin—especially when the volume’s cranked—but that’s part of the bone conduction experience. Turn it down a notch, and it’s fine.
Like most bone conduction devices, the built-in Bluetooth mic isn’t anything special. It works, but because it’s not directed at your mouth, call quality is passable but far from brillaint. Don’t expect crystal-clear conversations in noisy environments, but for a quick call on the move, on a run, or ride (like the OpenRun Pro 2) it’s ideal.
Where the OpenSwim Pro really shines for me, is in everyday use. I use them while driving my kids around, cooking, or walking outside. I can hear music or podcasts clearly while still being aware of traffic, kitchen sounds, or kids arguing in the backseat. That balance between private audio and situational awareness is exactly what I was looking for.
If you want immersive sound with zero outside noise, these aren’t for you. But if you’re after a solid, comfortable, open-ear listening experience that keeps you connected to your surroundings—and works just as well underwater—the Shokz OpenSwim Pro delivers. As a sound nerd, I’m impressed—and I’d definitely recommend them.
