We tested the new Shokz OpenRun Pro 2: premium sound without isolating you from your surroundings

Training with music or a good podcast is an undeniable motivational boost, but at Brújula Bike, safety and road regulations are non-negotiable. As the law strictly prohibits the use of any headphones on public roads open to traffic, we have taken the new Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 off the road to make the most of them during our daily routines, in our gym sessions, on the roller, and on some MTB routes.

Shokz OpenRun Pro 2: DualPitch Technology for a Completely Renewed Sound

The first thing that stands out upon receiving the OpenRun Pro 2 is its presentation. The packaging and the product finishes convey from the very first moment that we are dealing with a high-end device. To the touch, its titanium structure coated with silicone is smooth, lightweight, and extremely flexible. But the real revolution lies within with the DualPitch technology.

Unlike previous models that relied solely on bone conduction, the OpenRun Pro 2 uses a hybrid system. A bone conduction driver handles the mids and highs with astonishing clarity, while an air conduction driver (a small directional speaker) takes care of the bass. The result is a much deeper and richer sound, something that until now seemed impossible in a design that leaves the ear completely free.

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The Experience in the Mountains and the Gym: You Forget You're Wearing Them

Before going into detail, a warning for navigators: their use on roads or public ways open to traffic is completely prohibited in Spain. However, when you venture into mountain trails, hop on the roller, or lock yourself in the gym, there they are your best ally.

• Bump-Proof Ergonomics: In MTB, constant bumps and jumps usually displace any headphones. With the OpenRun Pro 2, this does not happen. They sit perfectly behind the ear and do not interfere with the arms of glasses or helmet straps. In the gym or on the roller, it is infinitely appreciated to have the ear canal free, avoiding the typical sweat accumulation of in-ear headphones. They are so lightweight that you literally forget you are wearing them.
• Connectivity and App: Bluetooth pairing is instantaneous with the mobile. Although you can use them as they come out of the box, it is almost mandatory to download their official app (available on Play Store and App Store). From the app, you can customize the equalization, manage the multipoint connection, and update the firmware to get the most out of them.

What About Noise Cancellation?

It is important to clarify that these headphones do not have Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) for the user, and that is exactly their strong point. If they canceled external noise, you would lose perception of your surroundings (crucial if you are on a fast trail or want to hear the mechanics of your bike).

However, where they do apply productive noise cancellation technology is in the microphones. We have tested making calls in the middle of a fast descent on a trail with the fan at maximum power in front of the roller. Thanks to their two microphones and an artificial intelligence algorithm, wind noise is filtered masterfully for the person listening to you. You still hear the air, but your interlocutor hears you with astonishing clarity.

Battery Life and Durability: Ready for Adventure

Another quality leap compared to the previous version is the switch to a USB-C charging port. Gone are the days of relying on exclusive magnetic cables that always disappear when you need them most; now you can charge them with your mobile or bike computer cable.

The battery has given us 12 hours of continuous use, easily covering a full weekend of MTB or several roller sessions. Additionally, they feature fast charging that in just 5 minutes gives you an extra 2.5 hours of battery life. Their IP55 certification ensures that mud, extreme sweat, or an accidental hose down will not be a problem.

There is no doubt that the Shokz OpenRun Pro 2 are one of the best alternatives for the off-road and indoor cyclist. If you are looking for total immersion and isolation like conventional headphones, look elsewhere. But if what you want is to enjoy music with surprisingly good quality and real bass, without giving up hearing what happens around you, they are the kings of the market.

They are comfortable, durable, and the call quality is very good.

What We Liked Most

• Hybrid Sound Quality: DualPitch technology provides bass that traditional bone conduction could not reach.
• Extreme Comfort: Perfect compatibility with helmets and glasses; they do not pinch or move on broken MTB sections.
• Clear Calls: Wind noise cancellation in the microphone is quite effective.
• USB-C Port: A necessary standard that we deeply appreciate.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Completely prohibited for use on the bike on roads, in the city, or open traffic.
• High External Noise: In gyms with very loud music, the open-ear design may make it difficult to hear your own content unless you turn up the volume quite a bit.

Technical Specifications

• Model: Shokz OpenRun Pro 2
• Technology: Hybrid (Bone Conduction + DualPitch Air Conduction)
• Battery Life: Up to 12 hours (Fast charging via USB-C)
• Durability: IP55 (Protection against sweat, dust, and moisture)
• Price: €199.00 (approx.)