Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 Review: The Best Bone Conduction Headphones for Runners?

by Nazar Kluchkovskiy · March 27, 2025 , 12:14 pm

Active Gear Review is supported by its audience. If you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

As someone who runs on both roads and trails, I need headphones that let me enjoy music and podcasts while staying aware of my surroundings. Bone conduction headphones are my go-to because they allow me to hear external noises like traffic, cyclists, or other runners. I’ve been using the Shokz OpenRun Pro for over a year, and I was excited to test out the new Shokz OpenRun Pro 2. With improved battery life, better sound quality, and some key upgrades, I wanted to see if they were worth the $179.95 price tag.

Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 Design and Fit

The OpenRun Pro 2 look nearly identical to their predecessor, which is great because Shokz has already nailed the lightweight, comfortable fit. The flexible titanium band sits securely around the back of my head, and I can wear them for hours without discomfort. Whether I’m running on trails or streets, they stay in place even when I pick up the pace. I also tested them with a cap and sunglasses and had no issues with the fit. On very chilly mornings, I could also wear a hat over them. Although it wasn’t the most comfortable, it still worked. What helped was putting my hat on over my ears and then pulling a hood over my head.

Shokz offers two sizes: Standard and Mini. I went with the Standard size, which fit well, but if you have a smaller head, the Mini might be a better choice.

Sound Quality of the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2

For bone conduction headphones, the OpenRun Pro 2 deliver impressive sound. The bass is deeper, the treble is crisper, and overall, the audio experience is much richer than the original OpenRun Pro. The new DualPitch technology improves bass and treble balance, making music more enjoyable without excessive vibrations against my cheekbones.

Compared to the original OpenRun Pro, the Pro 2 provides noticeably improved sound separation, allowing individual instruments and vocals to stand out more clearly. Midrange frequencies feel more defined, improving the clarity of dialogue in podcasts and audiobooks. Additionally, the bone conduction vibrations feel less pronounced, reducing the tickling sensation that some users experienced with the previous model.

Shokz includes four preset EQ modes:

Standard Mode: A balanced setting for general listening.
Bass Mode: Enhances low-end sounds, perfect for workout playlists.
Treble Boost Mode: Brings out higher frequencies, great for vocal-heavy music.
Vocal Mode: Ideal for podcasts, audiobooks, and phone calls.

I appreciate that Shokz now allows you to customize two EQ settings in the app. I adjusted mine to boost vocals for podcasts and deepen the bass for music.

Running Performance

I took the OpenRun Pro 2 on multiple runs both on pavement and trails. Early morning road runs were where they really shined. I could clearly hear approaching cars while still enjoying my music. On wooded trails, the headphones provided an immersive experience where I could appreciate nature sounds while still getting pumped up by my playlist.

The biggest benefit of these headphones for runners is the awareness they provide. I never feel completely isolated, which is crucial when running in busy areas. The lightweight design also means I forget they’re there, even on longer runs.

Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 Battery Life and Charging

One of the standout improvements is the battery life. It is now up to 12 hours compared to the 10 hours on the previous model. This means I can go several days without needing a recharge, even with daily runs and occasional calls. The quick charge feature is also better: a 5-minute charge now gives you 2.5 hours of playback, up from 1.5 hours on the previous model.

Another welcome change is the move to a USB-C charging port. The old proprietary magnetic charger was inconvenient, and now I can use the same cable I use for other devices.

Call Quality

I tested phone calls while running and driving, and the OpenRun Pro 2 handled them well. Voices sounded clearer, and background wind noise was noticeably reduced compared to the previous model. The microphone placement in a “low wind zone” helps minimize interference, making calls more reliable, even on breezy days.

Buttons

What’s Not So Good

While the OpenRun Pro 2 are excellent, they’re not perfect. Here are a few drawbacks:

Button Design: The volume buttons are still hard to differentiate by feel, especially with gloves on.
Microphone Quality: While better, it’s still not as clear as traditional earbuds, especially in very windy conditions.
IP55 Rating: They are only water-resistant, not fully waterproof. Light rain is fine, but you’ll need to keep them dry in heavy downpours.

Should You Upgrade?

If you already own the OpenRun Pro and are happy with them, the improvements in the Pro 2 might not be enough to justify the upgrade. However, if you want better sound quality, longer battery life, and USB-C charging, then the OpenRun Pro 2 are a fantastic choice.

For runners, especially those who prioritize safety and awareness, these are some of the best headphones available. They provide excellent comfort, improved sound, and great battery life while keeping you aware of your surroundings.

Final Verdict: Highly Recommended for Runners The Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 deliver on their promises. They improve on an already great product and remain the best bone conduction headphones I’ve tested. If you run on roads or trails and want high-quality audio without sacrificing situational awareness, these are well worth considering. You can get more information or pick up a pair for yourself at shokz.com or amazon.com