Willie S.
Imagine a pair of headphones that let you enjoy your favorite music while still keeping you connected to the world around you. That’s the promise of the SHOKZ OpenFit 2, a second-generation open-ear headphone designed to deliver high-quality sound without sealing off your ears. Released in late 2024, these headphones build on the success of their predecessor, offering a refined design and improved audio performance for active individuals and casual listeners alike.
SHOKZ, the company behind the OpenFit 2, is no stranger to innovative audio solutions. Known for its bone-conduction technology, SHOKZ has spent years perfecting headphones that prioritize situational awareness—ideal for runners, cyclists, or anyone who needs to stay alert. The OpenFit 2 takes this ethos a step further with an open-ear design that rests just outside your ear canal, blending comfort with practicality.
This latest iteration introduces enhancements like better bass response and a lighter frame, making it a compelling choice for those who value both sound and safety. Whether you’re jogging through a busy park or working in a bustling office, the OpenFit 2 aims to strike a balance between immersive audio and real-world awareness. Let’s dive into what makes these headphones stand out.
JUMP TO:
Is SHOKZ OpenFit 2 for You?
The SHOKZ OpenFit 2 solves a common problem: how to enjoy music or podcasts without losing touch with your surroundings. It’s perfect for people who lead active lifestyles—think runners, hikers, or gym-goers who want to hear approaching traffic or a friend’s voice. It’s also a great pick for office workers or parents who need to stay attuned to their environment.
That said, these headphones aren’t for everyone. If you crave the deep isolation of in-ear buds or the robust soundstage of over-ear cans, the OpenFit 2 might not meet your needs. This is a middle-tier product in terms of budget—not the cheapest option out there, but far from the premium price tags of high-end audio gear. It’s beginner-friendly too, with intuitive controls and a straightforward setup that doesn’t require tech expertise.
What We Like About SHOKZ OpenFit 2
The standout feature of the SHOKZ OpenFit 2 is its open-ear design, which delivers sound through air conduction while leaving your ears free to pick up ambient noise. This makes it a game-changer for outdoor activities—I’ve worn them on long runs and appreciated hearing both my playlist and the crunch of gravel underfoot. The sound quality is impressive for an open-ear model, with crisp highs and a surprising amount of bass thanks to SHOKZ’s upgraded audio tech. The lightweight build, tipping the scales at just 8.7 grams per earbud, feels barely there, even after hours of use. Battery life is solid too, offering up to 7 hours on a single charge, with the case extending that to 28 hours.
Comfort is another big win. The ear hooks are flexible yet secure, molding to your ears without pinching or slipping during movement. The IP54 rating means they can handle sweat and light rain, which came in handy during a drizzly hike. Pairing them with my phone was a breeze, and the Bluetooth 5.3 connection stayed rock-solid even in crowded areas. For anyone who’s struggled with earbuds that irritate after a while, the OpenFit 2 feels like a breath of fresh air—literally and figuratively.
What We Don’t Like About SHOKZ OpenFit 2
No product is flawless, and the OpenFit 2 has its quirks. The open-ear design, while a strength, means sound leakage is noticeable—don’t expect to crank the volume in a quiet library without drawing looks. Bass, while improved, still doesn’t rival the punch of sealed earbuds, which might disappoint audiophiles chasing thumping lows. I also found the touch controls a bit finicky at times; accidental pauses happened more than once while adjusting the fit.
The charging case, though sleek, feels a little flimsy compared to competitors—it’s lightweight but lacks that premium heft. And while 7 hours of battery life is decent, it’s not class-leading for this category, especially if you’re used to all-day buds. These aren’t dealbreakers, but they’re worth considering depending on your priorities.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent open-ear sound quality | Noticeable sound leakage |
| Lightweight and comfortable | Bass lacks depth of in-ear models |
| Secure fit for active use | Touch controls can be finicky |
| Good battery life with case | Case feels less durable |
| Sweat and water resistant | Not ideal for noise isolation |
What’s Included?
- SHOKZ OpenFit 2 earbuds (left and right)
- Charging case
- USB-C charging cable
- Quick-start guide and warranty card
The package is straightforward and functional, covering the essentials without unnecessary extras. I’m satisfied with what’s included—the USB-C cable is a nice touch for modern compatibility, and the quick-start guide made setup a snap. That said, I would’ve appreciated a small carrying pouch for added portability, especially given the active-lifestyle focus. It’s a minor omission, but one that could elevate the overall experience.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Weight | 8.7g per earbud, 73g with case |
| Battery Life | 7 hours (earbuds), 28 hours (with case) |
| Charging Time | 1 hour (earbuds), 2 hours (case) |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 |
| Water Resistance | IP54 (sweat and splash resistant) |
| Audio Technology | Open-ear air conduction |
Features
- Open-ear design: Delivers sound without blocking ambient noise.
- Enhanced bass: Improved low-end response compared to the original OpenFit.
- Flexible ear hooks: Ergonomic fit for all-day comfort and stability.
- IP54 rating: Protects against sweat, dust, and light water exposure.
- Bluetooth 5.3: Stable, low-latency connection up to 33 feet.
- Touch controls: Play, pause, skip tracks, and take calls with a tap.
- Quick charge: 10 minutes of charging yields 2 hours of playback.
The features here are thoughtfully designed for the target audience. The open-ear tech shines for safety and awareness, while the bass boost adds just enough richness to keep music enjoyable. The ear hooks are a highlight—soft yet grippy, they stayed put during a sweaty workout. Touch controls are handy but take some getting used to, and the quick-charge feature is a lifesaver for on-the-go use. My only gripe is that the specs don’t push boundaries in areas like battery life or noise cancellation—but that’s not the point of this product.
Final Breakdown
9/10
The SHOKZ OpenFit 2 earns a strong 9 out of 10 from me. It’s a near-perfect companion for anyone who values comfort, safety, and solid audio in an open-ear package. The lightweight design and secure fit make it a joy to wear, while the sound quality punches above its weight for this category. Minor drawbacks like sound leakage and touchy controls keep it from a perfect score, but they don’t overshadow the overall experience.
If you’re in the market for headphones that let you stay aware while delivering reliable performance, the OpenFit 2 is a fantastic choice. It’s not about isolation or audiophile-grade depth—it’s about blending music with life seamlessly. For runners, cyclists, or multitaskers, I wholeheartedly recommend giving these a try.
